Cabins in Abernethy Forest National Nature Reserve with horseback riding

Abernethy’s ancient woodlands are populated by chattering birds, elusive squirrels, and deer—making this nature reserve ground zero for Highland-style micro safaris. Comprising the largest remaining piece of Caledonian pine forest in Scotland, the nature reserve is carefully managed, with the wildlife habitats of the Dell Woods being closely safeguarded. Few other places have such healthy populations of pine marten, red squirrel, capercaillie, and osprey. Rambling trails lead through tranquil forest to shallow lochs for water sports, while gaps between the trees and boggy woodland reveal memory-making wild camping spots.

• Booking at least four weeks in advance is recommended for all campsites and caravan parks in the Cairngorms. In summer, it is one of Britain’s most popular destinations, so travelling without a reservation will leave you disappointed.
• Wild camping is legal anywhere within the Cairngorms, but as Abernethy Forest National Nature Reserve is a vital refuge for wildlife—and co-managed by NatureScot and the RSPB—it is prohibited here.
• If travelling without a booking, arrive early to try and beat like-minded travellers coming spontaneously from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Dundee.

Abernethy’s pinewoods buzz with life, no matter what time of the year you visit. In spring, the woodland is carpeted with wildflowers and breeding birds, while summer sees the arrival of butterflies and hovering dragonflies. Autumn is many campers’ pick because of the crayon-like colors of the birches, as is winter, when the forests and lochs sparkle with frost and—if you’re lucky—a fresh cover of snow and ice.

• The nature reserve’s helpful visitor centre is open year-round, weather permitting, while the toilets are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
• Birdwatchers unite at the Osprey Centre, home to Britain’s healthiest number of the birds of prey. It is situated on Loch Garten within the nature reserve.
• Full-on adventure is the mantra in the Cairngorms, and if you need to shift up a gear from Abernethy Forest’s quiet pathways, visit Cairngorm Mountain for gnarly mountain biking, hiking, climbing and winter sports.