Family-Friendly Self-Catering Holidays in the Cairngorms National Park

Planning a family holiday in the Scottish Highlands? The Cairngorms National Park is one of Scotland's most popular destinations for families, offering wildlife encounters, outdoor adventures and unforgettable experiences for all ages.

Whether you're looking for a short break or a longer family holiday, our self-catering cottages near Kingussie and Aviemore provide the perfect base for exploring some of the Cairngorms' most loved attractions.

From meeting reindeer in the mountains to spotting polar bears and exploring adventure parks, there is something for every member of the family to enjoy.

Discover Family Adventures in the Cairngorms

The Cairngorms National Park is packed with family-friendly attractions, beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Three of our favourite family days out are Landmark Forest Adventure Park, Highland Wildlife Park and the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre.

These attractions are all within easy reach of our Kingussie and Aviemore properties, making them ideal for a family self-catering holiday.

Landmark Forest Adventure Park

Located in Carrbridge and easily reached from the A9, Landmark Forest Adventure Park is one of the Highlands' most popular family attractions.

Open during the summer season from 27th March until 25th October, the park offers a fantastic day out for children and adults alike.

As an Escape Cottages Scotland guest, you'll receive a 10% discount on entry tickets.

Highlights include:

Wild Water Coaster

Dinosaur Kingdom

Red Squirrel Trail

Skydive attraction

Butterfly House

Free Park play area

The Butterfly House is one of our personal favourites and is always a hit with younger visitors.

Landmark is designed to be accessible for most wheelchair users and pushchairs, making it a great option for families with young children.

Facilities include:

Free parking

Toilets

Gift shop

Picnic areas

Pinewood Grill

Foresters Café

Dogs are welcome throughout much of the park when kept on a lead, and water bowls are available outside the cafés.

Tickets can be booked online or purchased at the entrance.

Highland Wildlife Park

A visit to Highland Wildlife Park is often one of the highlights of a family holiday in the Cairngorms.

Open seven days a week with free parking available, the park offers a unique opportunity to see incredible animals in a spectacular Highland setting.

The park combines walking areas with a drive-through reserve, allowing visitors to experience wildlife from the comfort of their vehicle.

Popular animals include:

Polar bears

Scottish wildcats

Monkeys

Snow leopards

Red pandas

Wolves and other rare species

Families can also book special keeper experiences for an even more memorable visit.

The park provides a wonderful day out while supporting wildlife conservation and education.

Cairngorm Reindeer Centre

The Cairngorm Reindeer Centre offers a truly unique Highland experience.

The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd is the only free-ranging herd of reindeer in the UK and consists of around 150 animals.

Visitors can enjoy:

Guided hill trips

Paddock visits

Reindeer feeding opportunities

Learning about the history of the herd

Guided hill trips typically last between 1.5 and 2 hours and provide the opportunity to meet the reindeer in their natural mountain environment.

Advance booking is recommended, particularly during school holidays and peak visitor periods.

Facilities include:

Free parking

Visitor information area

Please note that dogs are not permitted on reindeer experiences, as they can make the animals nervous.

Why Choose a Self-Catering Family Holiday?

A self-catering holiday gives your family the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Enjoy:

Spacious accommodation

Family meal times when it suits you

Comfortable living areas

Private outdoor space at selected cottages

Hot tubs at selected properties

Dog-friendly options at selected cottages

Easy access to the Cairngorms' top attractions

After a day of adventure, return to your cottage and relax together while planning the next day's activities.

Stay Near the Cairngorms' Top Family Attractions

Our cottages near Kingussie and Aviemore are ideally located for exploring the Cairngorms National Park and its many family attractions.

Whether you're watching reindeer on the mountainside, spotting wildlife at Highland Wildlife Park or enjoying a thrilling day at Landmark Forest Adventure Park, you'll never be short of things to do.

A family self-catering holiday in the Cairngorms offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation and unforgettable memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far are your cottages from Landmark Forest Adventure Park?

Our Kingussie and Aviemore properties are conveniently located for visiting Landmark Forest Adventure Park, making it an easy family day out during your stay.

Do Escape Cottages Scotland guests receive a discount at Landmark Forest Adventure Park?

Yes. Escape Cottages Scotland guests receive a 10% discount on entry tickets to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

Can I take my dog to Landmark Forest Adventure Park?

Yes. Dogs are welcome when kept on a lead, and water bowls are available outside the cafés.

Is Highland Wildlife Park suitable for young children?

Yes. Highland Wildlife Park is popular with families of all ages and offers both drive-through and walk-around areas, making it suitable for younger children.

Do I need to book the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre in advance?

We recommend booking online in advance, especially during school holidays and busy periods.

Are dogs allowed at the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre?

No. Dogs are not permitted on reindeer experiences because they can make the reindeer nervous.

How long should we stay in the Cairngorms?

We recommend a minimum of 3–4 nights to fully enjoy the attractions, scenery and outdoor activities available throughout the Cairngorms National Park.