Red Squirrels

The population of the red squirrel has drastically fallen in the UK and it is believed that less than 140,000 are left. The native pine forests in The Cairngorm National Park are one of the last strongholds in the UK.

The Glenmore Cafe is a half hour drive and a great place to watch the squirrels. Then again, you may even be lucky enough to see them in our back garden.

Bird Watching

Situated in Britain’s largest native pinewood forest, Loch Garten is world famous for the breeding of Ospreys. The specially designed Osprey Centre provides outstanding views and bird watching facilities.

Ospreys can easily be seen from April to August both on the nest and through their non-invasive CCTV camera.

The reserve also offers guided walks from May to August, lasting 2 to 3 hours. The walks have limited availability so must be booked in advance. Booking can be made through the Osprey Centre on 01479 831476.

The Osprey Centre is open daily, 10am – 6pm, from April to the end of August. Last entry to the centre is at 5pm. Binoculars and telescopes are available at the RSPB shop.

Admission is free for RSPB members.

For more information on the Ospreys and other special events at the centre, please visit the RSPB Loch Garten website.

Fishing

The River Spey is home to a variety of fish and provides outstanding salmon fishing. In Spring, the river regularly produces salmon that are 30lb plus.

Permits are required for fishing on local lochs and are available at the Post Office in Boat of Garten 10 minutes drive from Nethy Bridge.