Local Area Information
Local Amenities & Things to Do
Dalwhinnie Village
The peaceful village of Dalwhinnie offers a small selection of convenient local amenities, including a petrol station, a welcoming café serving meals throughout the day, and a bar—perfect for a relaxed drink after a day of exploring.
No visit would be complete without a trip to the renowned Dalwhinnie Distillery, where you can enjoy guided tours and sample its famous single malt whisky.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Dalwhinnie is surrounded by scenic walking and cycling routes, leading directly into the stunning landscapes of the Cairngorm National Park and the wider Highlands.
The local train station, Dalwhinnie railway station, is just a 5-minute walk from River View, offering direct links to Inverness and Perth and beyond.
Getting around by car
- Perth – approx. 1 hour south
- Inverness – approx. 1 hour north
- Aviemore – approx. 40 minutes north
- Fort William / Ben Nevis – just over 1 hour
Nearby Villages & Attractions
Newtonmore & Kingussie (10–20 minutes)
These nearby villages offer a wider selection of shops, cafés, and local attractions. A highlight is the Highland Folk Museum, an open-air museum set within extensive grounds, where you can step back in time and explore reconstructed historic Highland buildings.
If you're visiting in August, the Newtonmore Highland Games are a fantastic way to experience traditional Scottish culture.
Kincraig
Home to the Highland Wildlife Park, where you can see a wide range of animals including polar bears, tigers, and monkeys, as well as enjoy a drive-through safari experience.
Aviemore & Surroundings
A hub for outdoor adventure, Aviemore has something for everyone. Enjoy winter sports at the Cairngorm Mountain, or water-based activities at Loch Insh and the man-made beach of Loch Morlich.
For family-friendly adventures, visit Rothiemurchus Estate, offering activities such as quad biking, fishing, Segways, archery, and bike hire as well as the opportunity to get close to the Highland cows. You will also find Loch an Eilein which holds beautiful scenery and you walk around. Younger visitors (and the young at heart) will also love Landmark Forest Adventure Park.
Pitlochry (Approx. 30 minutes south)
A charming town with a great selection of shops and attractions. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy here, while nearby Faskally Wood, which can be a beautiful walk around and the added bonus of hosting the spectacular Enchanted Forest each October and November—a magical light show set within the forest.
Dunkeld
A visit to The Hermitage, managed by the National Trust for Scotland, is highly recommended for its beautiful woodland walks and dramatic scenery.
Loch Ness & Inverness
Head north to Loch Ness near Inverness, where you can explore local attractions, enjoy shopping and dining, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the legendary Loch Ness Monster.
Explore the Highlands
From historic castles and fascinating museums to hidden gems waiting to be discovered, the Scottish Highlands offer something for everyone—whatever the season or the weather.
