As the nights draw in, now is the ideal time to plan your stargazing escape to the UK’s biggest National Park.
The Cairngorms is home to Tomintoul and Glenlivet’s ‘International Dark Sky Park,’ which is one of the best places in the UK to see the stars at night. If you are lucky, you might even see the Aurora Borealis, northern lights.
The Cairngorms Astronomy Group runs stargazing events throughout the year which are designed to allow both visitors and locals alike.
Here are seven places to stay and activities to do to make the most of the Cairngorms’ incredible dark skies this autumn and winter…
1. Ancient Forest Twi-LIGHTS at the award-winning Landmark Forest Adventure Park at Carrbridge near Inverness
Landmark Forest Adventure Park has announced the return of its ‘Ancient Forest Twi-LIGHTS’ experience at the award-winning family attraction in the Cairngorms National Park this winter.
From late November until February half term, the ‘Ancient Forest Twi-LIGHTS’ experience will allow families to follow a one-kilometre woodland trail and immerse themselves in the enchanting ancient pinewood forest, illuminated by thousands of lights, sounds and effects. Ancient Forest Twi-LIGHTS’ will take place on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, from 21st November, with additional daily openings during the Christmas and February half-term holiday period.
Once again, visitors will get the chance to experience the UV light tunnel and ‘Red Squirrel Trail’, taking them up eight metres into the forest canopy for stunning views of the illuminated woodland below. Festive eats and treats will also be available to enjoy along the way.
The event incorporates the original Treetop Trail, built nearly 30 years ago and now expanded for improved accessibility, including buggy and wheelchair access. For more information on ‘Ancient Forest Twi-LIGHTS’ and Landmark Forest Adventure Park click here.
2. Stargazing at Loch Insh
Just outside the village of Kincraig, deep in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, lies one of the UK’s most magical stargazing spots. With minimal light pollution and wide-open skies, it’s the perfect place to wrap up warm, step outside, and connect with the cosmos.
Loch Insh’s stargazing experience is a two-hour session designed for all levels of curiosity. It begins inside their cosy dome with an engaging presentation followed by an outdoor guided introduction to the night sky. You’ll learn what to look for once you’re outside: constellations, planets, the Milky Way, and, if you’re lucky, even the Northern Lights.
The focus is on naked-eye observation, but you’re welcome to bring binoculars if you’d like a closer look. The guide can also teach you some tricks with your smartphone for photography and using star chart apps. Just bring your tripod if you’re interested in getting the best photos of the night sky.
A stargazing session at Loch Insh costs £33 per person, or, for an extra-special stargazing experience, take to the water with a Magical Pedalo Stargazing Adventure, which costs £44 per person.
The session lasts about two hours, and the evening will begin in the cosy dome before heading to the water. Floating beneath a vast Highland sky, the reflection of stars on the water makes this a truly immersive and peaceful way to experience the night. Add a delicious dinner or overnight stay to your visit and turn your stargazing experience into the perfect winter getaway.
For more information about Loch Insh Outdoor Centre, Kingussie PH21 1NU click here.
3. Stargazing Storywalk near Aviemore with Sarah Hobbs
On selected dates this autumn and winter, you can book a short evening stroll in Aviemore to stargaze and explore Scotland’s own Gaelic and Pictish stories of the stars from thousands of years ago with Sarah Hobbs, a specialist outdoor storyteller. She weaves tales that belong in the landscape and skyscape of Badenoch and Strathspey and the wider Highlands and Islands. The skies she describes are a rich tapestry of tales of characters and their adventures, from warrior queens to one-eyed giants. The walk includes a warming cup of foraged wild tea.
The Strathspey Storywalk lasts 1-1.5 hours, adult tickets £20, with family 2 adults 3 children £60. Suitable for all ages. The walk starts from the north of Aviemore (location will be shared on booking), and is around 1-1.5 miles (around 2km) long. The route can be made fully accessible for prams or wheelchairs; Dogs are allowed.
For more information or to book click here.
The event incorporates the original Treetop Trail, built nearly 30 years ago and now expanded for improved accessibility, including buggy and wheelchair access. For more information on ‘Ancient Forest Twi-LIGHTS’ and Landmark Forest Adventure Park click here.
2. Stargazing at Loch Insh
Just outside the village of Kincraig, deep in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, lies one of the UK’s most magical stargazing spots. With minimal light pollution and wide-open skies, it’s the perfect place to wrap up warm, step outside, and connect with the cosmos.Loch Insh’s stargazing experience is a two-hour session designed for all levels of curiosity. It begins inside their cosy dome with an engaging presentation followed by an outdoor guided introduction to the night sky. You’ll learn what to look for once you’re outside: constellations, planets, the Milky Way, and, if you’re lucky, even the Northern Lights.
The focus is on naked-eye observation, but you’re welcome to bring binoculars if you’d like a closer look. The guide can also teach you some tricks with your smartphone for photography and using star chart apps. Just bring your tripod if you’re interested in getting the best photos of the night sky.
A stargazing session at Loch Insh costs £33 per person, or, for an extra-special stargazing experience, take to the water with a Magical Pedalo Stargazing Adventure, which costs £44 per person.
The session lasts about two hours, and the evening will begin in the cosy dome before heading to the water. Floating beneath a vast Highland sky, the reflection of stars on the water makes this a truly immersive and peaceful way to experience the night. Add a delicious dinner or overnight stay to your visit and turn your stargazing experience into the perfect winter getaway.
For more information about Loch Insh Outdoor Centre, Kingussie PH21 1NU click here.
3. Stargazing Storywalk near Aviemore with Sarah Hobbs
On selected dates this autumn and winter, you can book a short evening stroll in Aviemore to stargaze and explore Scotland’s own Gaelic and Pictish stories of the stars from thousands of years ago with Sarah Hobbs, a specialist outdoor storyteller. She weaves tales that belong in the landscape and skyscape of Badenoch and Strathspey and the wider Highlands and Islands. The skies she describes are a rich tapestry of tales of characters and their adventures, from warrior queens to one-eyed giants. The walk includes a warming cup of foraged wild tea.
The Strathspey Storywalk lasts 1-1.5 hours, adult tickets £20, with family 2 adults 3 children £60. Suitable for all ages. The walk starts from the north of Aviemore (location will be shared on booking), and is around 1-1.5 miles (around 2km) long. The route can be made fully accessible for prams or wheelchairs; Dogs are allowed.
For more information or to book click here.
4. Wild Stargazing Evenings at Howe of Torbeg near Ballater
Immerse yourself in the gorgeous Cairngorms countryside with a cosy stay at Howe of Torbeg, near Ballater. Book a stay in one of their bespoke, high-quality glamping pods in the heart of Royal Deeside & the Cairngorms National Park, only five miles from the picturesque village of Ballater. Set in an acre of land, surrounded by open farmland and birch woodlands, they offer a range of accommodation in Glamping Pods & an off-grid Shepherd’s Hut.
During your stay, you can take some time out in a gorgeous natural setting to discover the magic of the night’s sky with Wild Stargazing Evenings. On selected Fridays, including 9th October and 11 December and 12 February 2027 Howe of Torbeg will be offering guided stargazing sessions in small groups of up to 10 people in the stunning Cairngorms National Park, with its exceptional dark skies. Guests can make the most of the clear winter skies and gaze heavenward.
Choose one of three cosy Glamping Pods or just book the stargazing evening which costs £29 per person. Stargazing can also be booked separately, with no requirement to stay on site. Find more information here.
5. Dark Skies at Cairngorm Bothies
Imagine yourself nestled under a blanket, gazing up at a sky so dark it feels like you could reach out and touch the stars. At Cairngorm Bothies, where the dark sky in the Cairngorms is a canvas painted with celestial wonders - far away from the city’s glaring lights – unaffected by the light of pollution.
This means you can enjoy unadorned views of the Milky Way or even catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis. Cairngorm Bothies offer Star Bathing Parties, for residents and non-residents alike. From October to March, they can organise bespoke special stargazing evenings which coincide with astronomical events or full moons.
Cairngorm Excursions provide parking at Cairngorm Bothies and the group will be guided through the ancient Scots pine forest and the trails to a centralised location, with rustic log seating, hot drinks and a blanket to keep you warm. Red LED head torches are provided along with other goodies in the Star bathing goody bag. A guide will help you interpret the night’s sky with the help of mobile phone devices with downloadable apps.
The Cairngorm Dark Sky Group Experience is now tailored for group bookings with a minimum of eight people. Residential guests can also enhance their stay with a Cosy Stargazing Hamper Add-On from £60. More details are available on request by calling 013392 89103 or going online.
6. Stargazing from The Lazy Duck, Nethy Bridge
The Lazy Duck offers a collection of elemental off-grid huts, an adventurous bunkhouse and a family-friendly cottage tucked away in the heart of the Abernethy Forest. It’s a place that gently encourages visitors to slow down, switch off, and reconnect with nature this autumn. Tucked away in Nethy Bridge, our wee eco-haven is surrounded by ancient Caledonian pine forest, open clearings, and some seriously impressive dark skies. On clear winter nights, the stars seem close enough to touch.
If you’re staying, you can start your stargazing adventure right from your doorstep — no need to even start the car. Wander up to the Poet’s Seat, just a five-minute walk from your hut, where a spectacular viewpoint opens up towards the Cairngorm Mountains. It’s the perfect spot to set up a tripod or simply lie back and take it all in. Bring a blanket and a hot drink, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate super-short stargazing walk.
If you’re after a slightly longer adventure, you can link up with the trails that loop around the forest village of Nethy Bridge. The route attached above takes you through a mix of peaceful woodland, riverside paths, and charming village scenes — complete with a beautifully lit-up bridge and stunning skies overhead.
Unplug & Recharge: Sweat out the stress in the wood-fired pond-side sauna, or book a pampering massage treatment in the purpose built wellbeing hut.
Stargazing: Each hut features a stargazing window right above the Hebridean box bed, and on-site is a quirky outdoor bed for those looking to cuddle up and observe the cosmos.
During your stay, you can take some time out in a gorgeous natural setting to discover the magic of the night’s sky with Wild Stargazing Evenings. On selected Fridays, including 9th October and 11 December and 12 February 2027 Howe of Torbeg will be offering guided stargazing sessions in small groups of up to 10 people in the stunning Cairngorms National Park, with its exceptional dark skies. Guests can make the most of the clear winter skies and gaze heavenward.
Choose one of three cosy Glamping Pods or just book the stargazing evening which costs £29 per person. Stargazing can also be booked separately, with no requirement to stay on site. Find more information here.
5. Dark Skies at Cairngorm Bothies
Imagine yourself nestled under a blanket, gazing up at a sky so dark it feels like you could reach out and touch the stars. At Cairngorm Bothies, where the dark sky in the Cairngorms is a canvas painted with celestial wonders - far away from the city’s glaring lights – unaffected by the light of pollution.
This means you can enjoy unadorned views of the Milky Way or even catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis. Cairngorm Bothies offer Star Bathing Parties, for residents and non-residents alike. From October to March, they can organise bespoke special stargazing evenings which coincide with astronomical events or full moons.
Cairngorm Excursions provide parking at Cairngorm Bothies and the group will be guided through the ancient Scots pine forest and the trails to a centralised location, with rustic log seating, hot drinks and a blanket to keep you warm. Red LED head torches are provided along with other goodies in the Star bathing goody bag. A guide will help you interpret the night’s sky with the help of mobile phone devices with downloadable apps.
The Cairngorm Dark Sky Group Experience is now tailored for group bookings with a minimum of eight people. Residential guests can also enhance their stay with a Cosy Stargazing Hamper Add-On from £60. More details are available on request by calling 013392 89103 or going online.
6. Stargazing from The Lazy Duck, Nethy Bridge
The Lazy Duck offers a collection of elemental off-grid huts, an adventurous bunkhouse and a family-friendly cottage tucked away in the heart of the Abernethy Forest. It’s a place that gently encourages visitors to slow down, switch off, and reconnect with nature this autumn. Tucked away in Nethy Bridge, our wee eco-haven is surrounded by ancient Caledonian pine forest, open clearings, and some seriously impressive dark skies. On clear winter nights, the stars seem close enough to touch.
If you’re staying, you can start your stargazing adventure right from your doorstep — no need to even start the car. Wander up to the Poet’s Seat, just a five-minute walk from your hut, where a spectacular viewpoint opens up towards the Cairngorm Mountains. It’s the perfect spot to set up a tripod or simply lie back and take it all in. Bring a blanket and a hot drink, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate super-short stargazing walk.
If you’re after a slightly longer adventure, you can link up with the trails that loop around the forest village of Nethy Bridge. The route attached above takes you through a mix of peaceful woodland, riverside paths, and charming village scenes — complete with a beautifully lit-up bridge and stunning skies overhead.
Unplug & Recharge: Sweat out the stress in the wood-fired pond-side sauna, or book a pampering massage treatment in the purpose built wellbeing hut.
Stargazing: Each hut features a stargazing window right above the Hebridean box bed, and on-site is a quirky outdoor bed for those looking to cuddle up and observe the cosmos.
For more info and bookings click here.
7. Stargazing from The Rowan Tree Country Hotel, Alvie near Aviemore
The Rowan Tree Country Hotel is a delightful small country hotel located just three miles from Aviemore, in the Cairngorms. Treat your significant other in your life to a delicious meal, and experience a warm Scottish welcome at one of the oldest coaching inns in the area that dates back to the 1700s. Step into the tranquil darkness of the Cairngorms National Park and discover the breathtaking beauty of our night skies. Far from the glow of city lights, guided stargazing walks reveal a canopy shimmering with constellations, shooting stars, and the quiet magic of the Highlands after dark.
Led by guide, Kyle, you’ll set off directly from the hotel for a gentle, night walk to our favourite local viewing spots. Afterward, step back inside to warm up with a hot drink and an informal chat about the night sky. Tour time is around 90 mins. If the weather turns overcast, Kyle will host an engaging indoor astronomy chat.
More information and bookings are available here.
7. Stargazing from The Rowan Tree Country Hotel, Alvie near Aviemore
The Rowan Tree Country Hotel is a delightful small country hotel located just three miles from Aviemore, in the Cairngorms. Treat your significant other in your life to a delicious meal, and experience a warm Scottish welcome at one of the oldest coaching inns in the area that dates back to the 1700s. Step into the tranquil darkness of the Cairngorms National Park and discover the breathtaking beauty of our night skies. Far from the glow of city lights, guided stargazing walks reveal a canopy shimmering with constellations, shooting stars, and the quiet magic of the Highlands after dark.
Led by guide, Kyle, you’ll set off directly from the hotel for a gentle, night walk to our favourite local viewing spots. Afterward, step back inside to warm up with a hot drink and an informal chat about the night sky. Tour time is around 90 mins. If the weather turns overcast, Kyle will host an engaging indoor astronomy chat.
More information and bookings are available here.