Skiing

When the snow arrives the Cairngorms comes alive with skiers. Two of Scotland’s five ski centres – Glenshee and The Lecht – are only a 40min drive from the hostel.

Glenshee, which takes its name from the Gaelic 'Glen of the Fairies', lies on the A93 (the highest A road in the UK) near Braemar on the road from Blairgowrie.

Glenshee is the largest ski and snowboard area in Scotland and home to the infamous Tiger, one of the most challenging black runs around. Glenshee covers an area of more than 2,000 acres extending across four mountains and three valleys and boasting 21 lifts and tows. Glenshee offers a choice of 36 runs comprising 40 kms of pisted snow. The longest single run, Glas Maol, extends to a fantastic 2 kms of skiing, while the extensive snow-making facilities means the centre is often open for longer. A buzzing cafe serves hot drinks and food, while skis, boots, snowboards, snowblades, helmets and other kit are all available to hire.

During the summer the Glenshee Mountain Bike Track opens and is a unique cross mountain experience open to all ages from 8 upwards. The track (2.4km in length) is accessed by a single seat chair that ascends from outside the main café to a height of 2998ft at the top of the Cairnwell. The chair is manned both top and bottom of the chairlift to assist with the loading and unloading of bikes.

The Lecht lies on the A939 between Tomintoul and Strathdon and has something for everyone.

Situated in the stunning location in Eastern Cairngorms at 2,090 ft above sea level it is in the heart of Scotland’s largest National Park. This is one of Scotland’s top ski resorts and is accessible from one of the most scenically beautiful roads in Scotland, the A939, between Tomintoul and Strathdon. With on-site snow-making facilities it offers some of the most consistent snow and is ideal for all levels of skiers and snowboarders and is especially good for beginners and intermediates. All equipment can be hired online or at the centre, though it is strongly recommended to book in advance due to a high demand. Clothing can be hired on-site in the Ski Snow Shop.

In the summer months the centre has two mountain bike trails, no need to push up the hill, simply attach your bike to the 3-man chairlift and up you go. Calling before travelling is recommended to check weather conditions as high winds can affect the running on the chairlift.