Hidden In The UK's Largest National Park Is A Small Town With Highland Trails, Tasty Eats, And Fishing

Few places in the United Kingdom showcase nature's grandeur quite like Cairngorms National Park, the largest of its kind in the country. Although it was only established in 2003, its 1,748 square miles encompass a region that preserves a rich human history as well as diverse landscapes, spanning from marshy wetlands and rugged mountains to dense old-growth forests. This Scottish park's character and the welcoming nature of its 18,000 inhabitants can be experienced firsthand in the quaint town of Grantown-on-Spey.

Grantown is a perfect gateway town for stepping into the northern ridge of the national park, as it sits deep in the Scottish Highlands and has an inseparable bond with the nature that surrounds it. Here, outdoor trails abound and spread in every direction, including the famous Speyside Way, which follows the local River Spey to the North Sea. Whisky flows freely here as well, with at least four local distilleries open to visitors.

The River Spey offers up 60 miles of pristine waters for fishing of all styles, with at least 32 official pools ideal for salmon fishing. Highly coveted for its sea trout and salmon, the River Spey is also among the most famous salmon fishing rivers in the world. After spending the day in the fresh Highland air, stepping into one of Grantown's heartwarming restaurants or pubs on High Street is the perfect way to wrap up your evening.

Although Grantown-on-Spey was only founded in 1765 with the humble beginnings of a solitary linen factory, the lands that eventually became the Cairngorms National Park have been pulsing with human activity since the Neolithic Age. Throughout the ages, many peoples have called this region home, from the ancient Picts to the eventual organization of Scottish society into clans. One of those was Clan Grant, who came to shape Grantown's history thanks to Sir James Grant and his vision for the locale. If you're interested in delving deeper into its history, you will find a visit to the Grantown Museum illuminating. Open from April through October, it includes the local visitor center and exhibits exploring the history of the area and Clan Grant itself.

The greenery that surrounds Grantown will certainly draw you out to explore the park. Sitting directly on the eastern edge of town, the Anagach Woods are a favorite among locals — the pinewoods were planted in 1766 and would grow alongside centuries-old Scots pines. You could almost call the woods and Grantown siblings, as both were the result of Sir James Grant's initiative. Anagach offers three trails of varying lengths and difficulties through the pinewoods, providing an excellent opportunity for both hikers and cyclists to potentially spot endangered capercaillie, red squirrels, and other local birds.

The local section of the Speyside Way is inviting for those who are keen on a longer adventure — just be sure to brush up on critical tips for staying safe while hiking, from packing the essentials to watching your footing. Then, set out from Grantown along the railway tracks south to Aviemore, covering about 16 miles through scenic riverside farmland. Head north, and roughly 14 miles of woodland trail will take you to Ballindalloch.

Fed by the Cairngorm Mountains of the park and spilling out into the North Sea, the River Spey is a major destination for anglers. Visitors from around the globe stream in yearly to test their skill and luck at catching salmon and sea trout in its waters. The river is just a 20-minute walk south of Grantown, and there are dozens of locations from which you can wade into its waters.

Bear in mind that the Spey's waters are managed by local associations, so to purchase a daily visitor's permit for $80, head over to Mortimer's shop at 3 High Street. It is important to familiarize yourself with the strict local guidelines that are in place to maintain and preserve healthy fish stocks. Should your travels take you further north toward the Outer Hebrides, fishing on the Spey could make for a great talking point with the locals of Ullapool, a fishing village described as one of the UK's most beautiful.

With a few great hikes and hopefully a good catch on the Spey under your belt, a wee dram can be a fitting way to warm up in the Highlands. Founded in 1765, The Grant Arms Hotel is as old as the town itself, making it an appealing place not only to stay but also to enjoy a hearty meal at its Capercaillie Bar, with a selection of over 150 whiskies to choose from. The Wee Puffin at 15 High Street is another option, serving traditional steak and ale pies, haggis, and modern diner fare. You can reach Grantown from the nearest major hub, Inverness, a mere 48-minute drive away. Should you visit the Cairngorms in the winter, the nearby town of Aviemore will spoil you with world-class skiing.