Garlyne Brae

If you like the sound of starting your morning with a short stroll and hopefully some wildlife sightings, make a beeline for RSPB Scotland Loch Garten Nature Centre (15 minutes’ drive). Set among the pine forest next to Loch Garten, lucky visitors can spot breeding ospreys, woodpeckers and red squirrels. It’s also worth taking note of popular local annual events like the August Highland Games in Nethy Bridge (five minutes), which features traditional dancing and athletic competitions, and the Grantown Agricultural Show (15 minutes), known for its livestock judging, parades, crafts and family activities. Speaking of families, there’s plenty to do here for you too. The Landmark Forest Adventure Park (20 minutes) has rope trails and water coasters, while the Highland Wildlife Park (35 minutes) houses beasts like polar bears and tigers. All ages should appreciate the steam train rides on the Strathspey Railway from Aviemore (20 minutes) to Broomhill Station and the quad-biking, clay pigeon shooting and falconry at the grand Rothiemurchus estate (25 minutes). You might want to reserve this last one for adults only, though: a whisky tasting or tour of the local Cairn Distillery (10 minutes).