Strong Start for Cairngorms Winter Season Boosts Local Businesses
The winter season in the Cairngorms National Park has kicked off with a bang, as local businesses are seeing a surge in visitors from both within the UK and internationally. Led by the Cairngorms Business Partnership (CBP), over 370 tourism firms are joining forces to promote the area as the UK’s ‘original winter destination’ through the VisitCairngorms campaign.
Rothiemurchus Estate and Landmark Forest Adventure Park Thrive
Rothiemurchus estate near Aviemore is basking in the success of a robust November and December, attributing their thriving outdoor activities to people’s desire for quality time in the enchanting winter months. Visitors have been flocking to experience quad trekking and falconry, drawn in by the allure of the park described as ‘one of the glories of wild Scotland’ by wildlife expert Sir David Attenborough.
Meanwhile, the Landmark Forest Adventure Park in Carrbridge has been illuminating the pinewood forest with over 100,000 lights in its Ancient Forest Twi-LIGHTS attraction. The visual spectacle has seen a significant uptick in attendance, with expectations to welcome double the number of visitors compared to last year.
International Appeal and Collaboration Drive Tourism
While domestic tourists from Scotland and the UK remain the primary visitors, there has been a notable increase in international guests as the winter season progresses. The Rowan Tree Country Hotel in Aviemore has welcomed more European tourists, particularly from France, the Netherlands, and Germany, eager to explore the wonders of Scotland.
Tourism firms are capitalizing on collaborative efforts as part of the Visit Cairngorms campaign, emphasizing the diverse attractions the region offers from October to March. Lisa Anderson, Marketing & Sales Manager for Landmark Forest Adventure Park, underscored the success of partnerships with accommodation providers in enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Optimism for the Winter Months Ahead
Looking ahead, businesses like Rothiemurchus are gearing up for a memorable winter season, with a range of activities from quad trekking to falconry experiences drawing in crowds. Angharad Gronbach highlighted the importance of teamwork in strengthening businesses during the winter months, while Anderson expressed excitement for the continued success of the Twi-LIGHTS offering.
As the Cairngorms Business Partnership works in tandem with the Cairngorms National Park Authority to promote responsible and sustainable tourism, CEO Craig Mills lauded the creativity and teamwork displayed by local businesses. With breathtaking winter views and a promising outlook for the coming months, the Cairngorms are set to shine as a premier winter destination for all.