Scottish Snowsports Made Easy: Cairngorm, The Lecht & Glenshee Are Ready for the 25/26 Season!
You might think a ski trip means long airport queues, endless transfers, and fumbling through menus in another language. But what if I told you, you can skip all that hassle and still get your ski fix right here in Scotland?
Yep, Scottish skiing is a thing. And as the old saying goes, “If you can ski in Scotland, you can ski anywhere.” Bold claim? Absolutely! But it’s not without merit.
Scotland boasts five snowsports resorts, three nestled in the stunning Cairngorms National Park. Of those, the two closest to the majority our Lodges are Cairngorm Mountain and The Lecht Ski Centre, perfect for quick trips out the door to the slopes.
Cairngorm Mountain: Skiing With a View
(and a Funicular!)
Just a stone’s throw from Aviemore, Cairngorm Mountain is the big player around here with 13 lifts and 32 runs. Its star attraction? The legendary ‘White Lady’ run, a favourite for locals and visitors alike. You’ll find T-bars and pomas to haul you up, plus a dedicated beginners’ area near the base with magic carpet for those first cautious steps on skis.
And here’s the best bit for the 25/26 season: the funicular railway is back! This beauty zips you from the base station right up to the freshly revamped Ptarmigan restaurant in under 10 minutes. This lets you dodge the notorious Scottish weather while enjoying the highest restaurant in the UK. Whether you’re skiing, walking, or just fancy a scenic ride, it’s a game-changer.
We highly recommend Free Ski for lessons whether you’re just starting out or brushing up your skills. Need gear? No worries. Cairngorm Mountain has rentals on site, and nearby shops like Tiso and Ellis Brigham have you covered too.
The Lecht: Small but Mighty
About 7 miles from Tomintoul and 20 from Nethy Bridge, The Lecht might be smaller, but it packs a serious punch for beginners and families. With 13 lifts, including a chairlift, and 20 runs, it’s a great spot to get your ski legs without the crowds. The beginner area at the base of the chairlift even boasts its own magic carpet.
If freestyle is your thing, don’t miss the rail park under the chairlift, complete with rails and boxes to show off your tricks. You can hire all your equipment online ahead of time, and their in-house ski school offers lessons for both skiing and snowboarding.
Glenshee: The Giant Neighbour
Not far from two of our properties, Gulabin House & Lodge, is the Glenshee Ski Centre near Spittal of Glenshee. This massive resort offers 36 runs stretching over 40 km’s of pistes so plenty of space whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro. With 22 lifts (including chairlifts, T-bars, and Pomas), getting around is a breeze.
Glenshee also offers lessons, instructor hires, and package deals to tailor your experience. When you’re ready for a break, their lively café is perfect for warming up with a hot drink and some hearty food.
So there you have it, Scottish skiing without the fuss, packed with character and just minutes from your doorstep. Whether you fancy conquering Cairngorm’s slopes, finding your feet at The Lecht, or exploring the vast terrain of Glenshee, the Highlands have got you covered for the 25/26 season…and yes, that funicular is definitely running again.
And the best part? You can enjoy all this while staying comfortably in one of our Great North Lodges. With wonderful accommodations just a short drive from the slopes, our lodges make the perfect base for your Scottish snowsports adventure. Pack your skis, bring your sense of fun, and let the Highlands do the rest!
