What's on in the Cairngorms October 2016

What’s On FREE

OCTOBER

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Local Story: Ghostly Goings On Special Offers!

Events: Over 90 Inside

www.visitcairngorms.com

Food and Fiddle Fortnight

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1 Map. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 1 Local Stories. . . . . . . . . . . . 12 1 Eat and Drink . . . . . . . . . . . 14 1 To Do. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 1 Accommodation. . . . . . . . . . 18 1 Shopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 The What’s On guide is also available online at www.visitcairngorms.com

Published by and all advertising sales Cairngorms Business Partnership Tel: 01479 810200. info@visitcairngorms.com www.visitcairngorms.com Produced by Landmark Press Carrbridge www.landmark-press.com Tel: 01479 841900.

Photo credits: Front Cover: www.illuminatorrun.co.uk Courtesy of Tim Winterburn, Food & Fiddle Fortnight, Murray Wilkie, Treezone Aviemore, Great North Lodges.

What’s On in october

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elcome to the Cairngorms National Park and the October edition of What’s On, the free events guide.

To help you make the most of your time here we’ve put together an essential guide packed with what’s happening in the area. We’ve got some great ideas for things to do, places to see, where to eat and drink, and places to stay.

October is packed with events. The Food & Fiddle Festival - a glorious celebration pairing Deeside’s culinary genius with musical talent is back for a fortnight 1st-16th October.

Following on with the food theme is the World Famous Golden Spurtle Porridge Making Championships in Carrbridge on the 8th. Work off all that food by taking part in the Macdonald Mile Fun Run on the 15th or the Aviemore Half Marathon and 10k on the 16th.

Set in the most beautiful surroundings this is a favourite on the running calendar. The Braemar Creative Arts Festival (19th-23rd) invites you to take part in all sorts of musical and creative workshops and enjoy the Braemar Bakeathon and the Braemarket...the Festival’s fabulous craft market. Grantown welcomes the Dark Nights, Dark Deeds 4th wee crime writing festival at the Garth Hotel (28th-29th). This should get you in the mood for spooky goings on at Landmark Forest Adventure Park and a wonderfully scary setting at the Frank Bruce Sculpture Trail where they invite you to a Halloween walk in the evening. See the listings from page 4 for more details.

The Cairngorms National Park has something for everyone.

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What’s On

october 2016

Contents

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what’s on in october

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ou are in an all year round destination with lots going on.

Use the listings to plan your fun! The Events of Interest list outlines exhibitions and events of interest over more than one day, the Calendar section gives you a day by day list of events and Day by Day shows regular events. For more information on all the events below please refer to www.visitcairngorms.com/whatson

T: 07482 702782. www.theionagallery.co.uk

Events of Interest

what’s on october 2016

30th September-2nd October Gin and Foraging weekend Inshriach House, Aviemore. 4pm Friday-11am Sunday. Booking Essential. T: 01540 651341. www.inshriachhouse.com

3rd-30th October ‘Scarefest’ Scary Attractions throughout Park Landmark Forest Adventure Park. Carrbridge. www.landmarkpark.co.uk

‘Braemar Creative Arts Festival’ Workshops in music, arts & crafts, drama; evening entertainment & fringe Various venues in Braemar.

T: 01339 741225. www.braemarcreativearts.co.uk

Sunday 2nd October Cairngorm Farmer’s Market The Square, Grantown on Spey. 10am -4pm. organisercfma@gmail.com www.cairngorms-farmers-market.com Focus Craft Fair Victoria Hall, Station Square, Ballater.

10am-4pm. T: 01467 642951. www.scotlandcrafts.co.uk

Monday 3rd October F Open Art Studio l

(Fused Glass) The Trove, Main St, Newtonmore.

28th-29th October 2-4pm. T: 07921 729249.

Dark Nights, Dark Deeds... www.fusedandlight.co.uk Death in Grantown.

4th Wee Crime Festival Wednesday 5th October featuring Crime Writers 11th-27th October Badger Watch Garth Hotel, Grantown on Spey.

Food and Fiddle Fortnight T: 01479 873433.

TBA, Nethy Bridge. 7.15pm.

Royal Deeside, Ballater.

T: Alison Greggans 07710 387510. www.thebookmark.co.uk www.visitabdn.com/food-and-fiddlewww.highlandbadgers.net. fortnight 29th-30th October

1st-29th October F Jon Schueler l

‘Skyscapes’ Exhibition The Iona Gallery, Kingussie.

1-5pm. T: 01540 662900. www.theionagallery.co.uk

10th-15th October F ‘Lost in the Glen’ l

Landscape Photography Exhibition by Preslava Gancheva Iona Gallery, Kingussie. 1-5pm.

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19th-23rd October

Carrbridge Village Hall. 7-9pm.

T: 07947 812602. dicequeen74@aol.com Fundraising Quiz Night Grantown YMCA Community Centre.

7pm. T: 01479 872262.

Thursday 6th October

Water Coaster Foam Days Creative Art Workshop Landmark Forest Adventure Park, Carrbridge. www.landmarkpark.co.uk with Artist Theresa Brown Boat of Garten Community Hall.

9.30am-2.30pm. T: 01381 621337. info@boathall.org.uk Calendar of Events The Osprey Music Society Saturday 1st October Presents ‘Scottish Ensemble Sextet’ Strathspey Thistle v Boat of Garten Community Hall.

Rothes Highland League Football Match 7.30-9.30pm. T: 01479 831213.

Seafield Park, Grantown on Spey. ann.nap@btinternet.com 3pm. www.strathspeythistlefc.co.uk Family Quiz Hugh Neff Talk on Yukon Hilton Craigendarroch Hotel, Ballater.

T: 01339 755858.

Quest Sled Dog Race What’s On

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Friday 7th October

Glen Doll Ranger Base, Kirriemuir.

11am-3pm. T: 01575 550233. glendollranger@angusalive.scot

Monday 10th October F Open Art Studio l

(Fused Glass) The Trove, Main St, Newtonmore.

2-4pm. T: 07921 729249. www.fusedandlight.co.uk Boat Talks. Nepal: One Saturday 8th October Year On F Disability Snowsport l Boat of Garten Community Hall.

UK Cake & Crafts 7.30pm. T: 01479 831123.

Boat of Garten Community Hall. info@boathall.org.uk 10am-2pm. T: 01479 861272.

F Evening Talk: Paco’s l www.facebook.com/ Costa Rica by Vana events/320198588333435/ Chadwick F Autumn Treasure Hunt l Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey.

Glenmore Visitor Centre, Aviemore.

8.30-9.30pm. T: 01479 872526.

10am-4pm. T: 01479 861220. www.bwwc.co.uk lucy.ford@forestry.gsi.gov.uk Tuesday 11th October F 23rd Annual Golden l Spurtle World Porridge Inverallan Old Time Making Championship Dancing Carrbridge Village Hall. 11am.

Inverallan Church Hall, Grantown on www.goldenspurtle.com Spey. 7.30-10pm. T: 01479 851353.

Strathspey Thistle FC v ‘Raging & Roaring’ Deer Lossiemouth FC Highland Ranger Event League Football Match Glen Tilt Car Park, Blair Atholl.

Seafield Park, Grantown on Spey.

2-3.30pm. T: 01796 481355.

3pm. www.strathspeythistlefc.co.uk pf@atholl-estates.co.uk F Moray Male Voice l Wednesday 12th October Gospel Choir ‘The Slochd Sheilings’ Abernethy Old Kirk, B970, next to Ranger Event Castle Roy, Nethy Bridge. 7-9pm.

Location given on booking, T: 07934 413063.

Carrbridge. 11am-3pm. www.oldkirknethybridge.orgk T: 01479 873914.

Chiels Cabaret Night saranne.bish@highland.gov.uk Victoria Hall, Ballater. 9pm.

Fundraising Swishing http://www.visitballater.com/event/ Night chiels-cabaret-night/ Grantown YMCA Community Centre.

Sunday 9th October 7pm. T: 01479 872262.

F Clash of the Titans’ Badger Watch l Red Deer Ranger Walk TBA, Nethy Bridge. 7.15pm.

Quiz Night Ben Mhor Hotel, Grantown on Spey.

7.30pm. T: 07826 619110.

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GROUP HIRE TRANSPORT On weekends for: Walkers, Bird Watchers, etc.

Enquiries: (t): 01479 810004 (office hrs) (e): info@ct4u.co.uk

www.ct4u.co.uk T: Alison Greggans 07710 387510. www.highlandbadgers.net

Thursday 13th October Grantown Senior Citizens Thursday Club Grantown Community Centre. 2-4pm.

T: 01479 872262.

Family Quiz Hilton Craigendarroch Hotel, Ballater.

T: 01339 755858.

Live Music with ‘Blue Rose Code’ Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore. 8.30pm.

T: 01479 811137.

what’s on october 2016

Live Music with ‘Nae Plans’ (Hamish Napier & Adam Sutherland) Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore. 8.30pm.

T: 01479 811137.

Friday 14th October Inside Out (U) ‘The Boat Reel’ Neighbourhood Cinema Boat of Garten Community Hall. 3pm.

T: 01479 831123. info@boathall.org.uk

What’s On

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‘Monarchs of the Glen’ Ranger Event General Wades Road, Laggan.

4-7pm. T: 01479 873914. saranne.bish@highland.gov.uk F ‘Roar of the Reds’ l Ranger Event Auchallater Car Park, Braemar.

5-7pm. T: 07787 583976. marr.ranger@aberdeenshire.gov.uk Top Gun (12) ‘The Boat Reel’ Neighbourhood Cinema Boat of Garten Community Hall.

7.30pm. T: 01479 831123. info@boathall.org.uk Stargazing Talk & Tour Mar Lodge Estate, Braemar. 8-10pm.

T: 01339 720164. marlodgeestate@nts.org.uk

Sunday 16th October Aviemore Half Marathon & 10K Badaguish Outdoor Centre to Aviemore. www.aviemorehalfmarathon.org ‘Clash of the Titans’ Red Stags Ranger Walk Inverey Car Park, Braemar. 4-7pm.

T: 01339 720164.

‘A Fitful Sea’ Drama Production Boat of Garten Community Hall.

7.30-9pm. T: 01479 831213. ann.nap@btinternet.com History of Braemar Houses Braemar Village Hall. 7.30-9pm.

T: 01339 741511. rn@sudworth.force9.co.uk www.braemarlhg.com

Live Music with FRAS Band Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

T: 01479 811137.

Saturday 22nd October F Ballater Farmer’s l

Market Ballater Farmers Market, Glenmuick Church Green, Ballater. 10am-2pm. www.facebook.com/ ballaterfarmersmarket Traditional Music Sessions Moorfield House Hotel, Braemar. www.braemarcreativearts.co.uk

Sunday 23rd October

The Great Braemar Bake-Off Village Hall, Braemar. 10am. www.braemarcreativearts.co.uk Saturday 15th October Braemarket Show Case of F Hands on Conservation l Monday 17th October local arts and craft talent Glen Tanar Visitor Centre, Ballater.

Village Hall, Braemar. 11am-3pm.

F Evening Talk: Wildlife l 10am-4pm. T: 01339 886072.

Crime in Scotland by ranger@glentanar.co.uk Walled Garden Workshops Alan Stewart Glen Tanar Estate, Dinnet.

Stargazing Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey. T: 01339 886451.

Mar Lodge Estate, Braemar.

8.30-9.30pm. T: 01479 872526. gardener@glentanar.co.uk 12-2pm. T: 01339 720164. www.bwwc.co.uk marlodgeestate@nts.org.uk www.glentanar.co.uk The Macdonald Mile Wednesday 19th October ‘Clash of the Titans’ Red Fun Run Stags Ranger Event ‘Battle of Killiecrankie’ Macdonald Aviemore Resort. 2.30pm. Talk & Activities Inverey Car Park, Braemar. 4-7pm. www.aviemorehalfmarathon.org T: 01339 720164.

National Trust for Scotland Fiddler Paul Anderson & Killiecrankie Visitor Centre. 2-3.30pm. l F Evening Talk: Wildlife Local Author Ian Murray T: 01350 728641. www.nts.org.uk Photography by Tom with ‘Food, Fiddle and Gilks ‘Clash of the Titans’ Folklore’ Moorfield House Hotel, Braemar.

Red Stags Ranger Walk Riverside Cottage, Cambus O’ May, www.braemarcreativearts.co.uk (shorter) Ballater. 2pm. T: 01339 755126.

Glen Quoich, Mar Lodge Estate, www.riversidecottagecafe.co.uk Monday 24th October Braemar. 4-7pm. T: 01339 720164.

Ceilidh, Drinks & Nibbles Grantown 250 & More Glentanar Ballroom. Booking Friday 21st October Illustrated Talk T: 01339 886451.

Annual Creative Quiz Boat of Garten Community Hall. www.glentanar.co.uk Braemar Golf Club.

7.30pm. T: 01479 831123.

F Free Entry to Event l www.braemarcreativearts.co.uk info@boathall.org.uk What’s On

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Falklands ‘Islands of Kings, Tyrants and Giants’

by Mike Read Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey.

8.30-9.30pm. T: 01479 872526. www.bwwc.co.uk

Thursday 27th October

Grantown Senior Citizens Thursday Club Grantown Community Centre. 2-4pm.

T: 01479 872262.

F Laggan Heritage Talk: l (AGM) with John Russell ‘Russwood & the Laggan Tuesday 25th October Connection’ F Evening Talk: Citizen Laggan Hall. 7.30-10pm. l T: 01528 544722.

Science by Ben Hoare Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey. scslimon@gmail.com 8.30-9.30pm. T: 01479 872526.

F Evening Talk: Rocky l www.bwwc.co.uk Mountain Magic by Mike Read Wednesday 26th October Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey.

8.30-9.30pm. T: 01479 872526.

F Evening Talk: See l www.bwwc.co.uk the Signs ‘The Art of Tracking, Seeing and Live Music with Franc Being’ by Nick Baker Cinelli & Tom Speight Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey. Singer/Songwriters 8.30-9.30pm. T: 01479 872526.

Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore. 9.30pm. www.bwwc.co.uk T: 01479 811137.

Highland Life in the 18th Friday 28th October Century Seminar Highland Folk Museum, Newtonmore. Music Afternoon Tea 9am-4.30pm. Booking essential.

Dance T: 01540 673551.

Aviemore British Legion. 2-4pm. www.highlifehighland.com T: 01479 810004. www.ct4u.co.uk

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Badenoch Fiddlers Talla Nan Ros, Kingussie. 7.30-10pm.

T: 01540 673020. basg@mybtinternet.com Sunset Song (15): ‘The Boat Reel’ Neighbourhood Cinema Boat of Garten Community Hall.

7.30pm. T: 01479 831123. info@boathall.org.uk

Saturday 29th October Illuminator Half Marathon Glen Tanar, Dinnet. www.illuminatorrun.co.uk The Glenfiddich Piping Championship Blair Castle, Blair Atholl.

10am-7.30pm. T: 08456 021974. www.blair-castle.co.uk Halloween Special at The Strathspey Railway Aviemore Station, Platform 3.

10am-2.20pm. T: 01479 810725. www.strathspeyrailway.co.uk Wild Halloween Walk Meet in the stone circle outside Visitor Centre, Killiecrankie. 2-3.30pm.

T: 01796 473233. www.nts.org.uk

What’s On

what’s on october 2016

F Evening Talk: The l

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F Halloween at l

Feshiebridge Sculpture Trail Forestry Commission Feshiebridge Car Park, Kincraig. 7-9pm.

T: 01479 861220.

Halloween Party with Music by ‘Shaka Loves You’ Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

T: 01479 811137.

Sunday 30th October F Autumn Treasure Hunt l

what’s on october things to do2016

Glenmore Visitor Centre, Aviemore.

10am-4pm. T: 01479 861220. lucy.ford@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

Monday 31st October F Open Art Studio l

(Fused Glass) The Trove, Main St, Newtonmore.

2-4pm. T: 07921 729249. www.fusedandlight.co.uk Bats + Frogs + Mice + Magic Spooky Wildlife Activities Blair Atholl Information Centre.

4.30-6pm. T: 01796 481355. pf@atholl-estates.co.uk F Evening Talk: Coast to l Cairn by Andy Howard Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey.

8.30-9.30pm. T: 01479 872526. www.bwwc.co.uk Halloween Party Night Blair Atholl Information Centre.

4.30-6pm. T: 01796 481355. pf@atholl-estates.co.uk

Every Day in October Every Monday F Braemar Health Walk l

Group

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Under the Mews, Braemar.

10-11am. T: 01339 741426.

Knitting for Beginners (Strathspey) Dulnain Bridge Village Hall. 6-8pm.

T: 01540 662420. www.clp-online.net lexy.clp@btconnect.com Cash Bingo (18+) Royal British Legion, Grantown on Spey. 7.50pm. T: 01479 873690.

F Live Music l Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore. 8.3010.30pm. www.hiltonaviemore.com F Live Music & Dancing l with Raymond Chuchuk Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie, 8.30pm. T: 01540 661302.

F Live Entertainment l with Graeme Mackay Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

Every Tuesday Glenlivet Health Walk Glenlivet Public Hall, Bridgend of Glenlivet. 9.45-10.45am.

T: 01807 590689 (evenings).

F Grantown Health Walk l Group Curling Rink Car Park, Anagach Wood. 10.30-11.30am.

T: 01479 872142.

F Ballater Health Walk l Group Glenmuick Church Hall. 1-2pm.

T: 01339 755634.

F Nethy Bridge Health l Walk Group Meet by Community Centre, Dell Road. 1-2pm. T: 07519 569005.

F Braemar Local History l Group Historical Village Walks Meet front of Invercauld Hotel, Braemar. 8pm. T: 01339 741985. dougbruce_2000@yahoo.com F l

What’s On

F Live Music & Dancing l

with Kenny Nairn Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

8pm. T: 01540 661302.

F Live Music l Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore. 8.30pm.

Quiz Night Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

T: 01479 810233.

Every Wednesday Ranger-led Caledonian Forest Walk Osprey Centre Car Park outside Kiosk, Boat of Garten. 9.30am-1pm.

T: 07710 387510.

Alison.greggans@rspb.org.uk Community Cafe St Andrews Church Hall, Aviemore.

10am-4pm.

F Boat of Garten Health l Walk Group Boat Hotel. 1.30-2.30pm.

T: 01479 831562.

F Braemar Local History l Group Historical Village Walks Meet front of Invercauld Hotel, Braemar. 3pm. T: 01339 741985. dougbruce_2000@yahoo.com Knitting for Beginners (Badenoch) Cairngorms Learning Partnership, Kingussie. 6-8pm. T: 01540 662420. lexy.clp@btconnect.com www.clp-online.net Rotary Club of Spey Valley Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore.

6-8.15pm. T: 01479 810233. www.speyvalley.rotary1010.org F Live Music with Swing l Singer George Gordon Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

8pm. T: 01540 661302.

l www.visitcairngorms.com

Information hub opposite Visitor Centre, Nethy Bridge.

11.30am-1.30pm. T: 07710 387510.

Alison.greggans@rspb.org.uk F Live Music l Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore.

Every Thursday 8.30pm.

F Kingussie Health Walk l Live Music with Carl Group Wilson Singer & Guitarist Badenoch Centre. 10.30-11.30am.

Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

T: 01540 661878.

8.30-11pm. T: 01540 661302.

F Carrbridge Health Walk l F Live Music l Group Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

Meet by the Old Bridge, Carrbridge.

11am-12pm. T: 01479 841749.

Every Saturday F Ranger-led Guided Walk l Highland Wildlife Park Station Square, Boat of Garten.

Photographic Days 11am-1.30pm. T: 07710 387510.

Highland Wildlife Park, Kincraig.

Alison.greggans@rspb.org.uk 8.30am-3pm. Pre-booking essential.

F Aviemore Health Walk l T: 01540 651 976.

Group www.highlandwildlifepark.org.uk Myrtlefield Car Park, near Mike’s F Live Music l Bikes. 1.30-2.30pm.

Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore.

T: 01479 810519.

8.30pm.

The Killiecrankies Cabaret Live Music with Nigel Band Dyson Singer & Guitarist Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie, 8.30-11pm. T: 01540 661302.

8.30pm. T: 01540 661302.

F Jammin Night l F Live Music with Davy Ghillies Lounge Bar, Duke of Gordon l Holt Hotel, Kingussie. 9pm-12am.

Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

T: 01540 661302.

F Live Music with Tweed l Every Sunday Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

F Live Music Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore. 8.30pm.

F Live Music with Davy l Holt Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore. 9.30pm.

Golf www.visitcairngorms.com/onthetee

Saturday 1st October Charity Mixed Greensomes Ballater Golf Club. T: 013397 55567.

Saturday 8th October Mixed Texas Scramble Ballater Golf Club. T: 013397 55567.

Sunday 16th October Open 12 Hole Challenge Golf Newtonmore Golf Club.

T: 01540 673878.

Shinty

Please note: Fixtures can change.

Please check www.shinty.com

Saturday 1st October Newtonmore 2nds v Kingussie The Eilan, Newtonmore. 2.30pm.

Saturday 8th October Newtonmore 1sts v Oban Camanachd The Eilan, Newtonmore. 2.30pm.

what’s on october 2016

F Live Music l

Saturday 15th October

Newtonmore 1sts v Kyles Athletic Hilton Coylumbridge, Aviemore. 8.30pm. The Eilan, Newtonmore. 2.30pm.

Every Friday F Scottish Night with l F Glen Tanar Health Walk l Saturday 29th October Ceilidh Dancing Glen Tanar Visitor Centre.

Duke of Gordon Hotel, Kingussie.

Newtonmore 1sts v Skye 10-11.30am. T: 01339 886072.

The Eilan, Newtonmore. 2.30pm.

8.30pm. T: 01540 661302.

F Tomintoul Health Walk l Please check the online calendar at Tomnabat Court. 10-11am.

T: 01807 590689 (evenings). www.visitcairngorms.com/whatson F Ranger-led Guided l for further details and extra events Walk

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See www.visitcairngorms.com for more information on each of the villages in the area.

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What’s On

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Ghostly Goings on

he season of all things ghoulish and peculiar is about to cast its spell on us. Thought to have its origins in an ancient Celtic festival when people lit bonfires and wore costumes to ward off wandering ghosts, Halloween is a fitting time to explore tales of superstition and the supernatural.

local stories things to do

We do enjoy scaring ourselves with the unexplained or unknown as well as the downright creepy. Much folklore is based on real people and incidents that happened or were believed to have happened! Strange stories centre on rural life, forests, hills and lochs; so it is little surprise that the Cairngorms National Park is brimming with myth and legend. Come on, delve in, if you dare!

Spooks and Phantoms - Witches and Faeries Loch Pityoulish

A sea of cloud from Ben Macdui

Beware The Big Grey Man of Ben Macdui, a mythical creature fabled to haunt Britain’s second highest mountain. Over the years, countless climbers have seen or sensed a presence; something extraordinary and terrifying in the wilderness. But, could this eerie spectacle be ‘broken spectre’; a phenomenon in high mountain areas when the sun is low, where gaps in the clouds enable people to see their own magnified shadow cast upon the clouds?

The Water Kelpie, a horse-like creature was rumoured to haunt Scottish lochs and rivers and lure unsuspecting humans to catastrophe in the cold waters. Loch Pityoulish, near Aviemore, was thought to have been a haunt of the shape-shifting kelpie. It was here that 12 12

a kelpie was said to have carried off and drowned nine children, who were attracted by the ‘pretty pony’. And the moral of the story?

“Things are not always what they appear”.

What’s On

Then there is the Bodach, or Spirit, which once frequented Loch Garten and surrounds, including the ominously named Loch Mallachie (Loch of the Curse).

The phantom would appear as a glowing gigantic white entity, roaming the countryside at night, warning anyone he met, with a high pitched scream, of approaching death. But, could the startling cries simply be passing wildfowl or the moanings of the loch?

Flights of waterfowl in the eerie solitude of darkness and shadows of the forest could provide the answer as could the unearthly groaning, audible in winter, when the loch’s ice starts to melt and trapped air tries to escape.

Loch Mallachie ‘Loch of the Curse’

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Stories involving beasts were commonplace. For example, in mythology, the Cat Sìth is a fairy creature, or sometimes a witch, resembling a large black cat that haunts the Highlands. The legends surrounding this apparition appear to have been inspired by the black Kellas cat, a cross between a domestic cat and a wildcat. Plants and trees too possessed special attributes. The rowan tree, for example, protected against witchcraft. The colour red was considered the best protection against enchantment, so the rowan with its vivid autumn berries, is an understandable choice.

The rowan symbolised a Faerie tree also because of its white flowers.

Corgarff Castle is said to be haunted following an atrocity in which tens of women, children and servants perished in a fire. The infamous ‘Wolf of Badenoch’, who is associated with many castles and forts in the Cairngorms National Park, sparked off many a yarn. It was said that he and his followers practiced witchcraft in the dark hours, but retribution came at night as he played a game of poker with the Devil.

‘One of the Wolf of Badenoch’s haunts’

Castle Roy, one of Scotland’s oldest forts, is surrounded in mystery. Some say that treasure is buried there however the soil is believed to be infected with plague and all those who have searched for treasure have perished! There are stories of a secret passageway connecting the castle to the Old Kirk close by and the castle is rumoured to have its own ghost, which appears during the summer solstice.

Nearby, a small loch near Balliefurth is said to contain treasure also but, as it is guarded by a monster, efforts to find it have been in vain!

local stories

Loch Morlich holds another watery tale.

The west side of the loch was believed to be home to the King of the Fairies while the east was guarded by The Spectre of the Bloody Hand – a gigantic figure of an old man, in Highland warrior dress, one hand dripping with blood, who challenged anyone he met with a fight to the death.

By contrast he was a champion of animals, being a guardian of deer and other wild creatures!

Halloween Happenings in the Park Spooky, fun treats on Saturday 29 October include: Feshiebridge Sculpture Trail Halloween.

Rowan Tree

Castles and Ghosts - Hauntings and Treasure Kindrochit, the first castle in Braemar, dates back to the 11th century and has many accounts of haunting by plague victims. Legend tells too of a soldier who was lowered into its well to find treasure, only to be greeted by ghosts having a party.

The National Trust’s Killiecrankie Wild Halloween.

A Halloween Special at the Strathspey Railway.

October Spookfest at Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

Full details www.visitcairngorms.com/whatson

www.visitcairngorms.com

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What’s On

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eat & drink

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ook out for local produce & help reduce food miles within the Cairngorms National Park. We really are spoilt for choice.

If you’re still stuck for ideas have a look at the next few pages and you’ll soon be inspired!

Boat of Garten - Tel: 01479 831 466

eat & drink

Local, Seasonal, Creative Food, Relaxed & Informal Dining Experience. * WEDNESDAY NIGHT PIE NIGHT ~ A Delicious pie with mash or chips, and a beer or wine for only £13 * CELLAR SUNDAY NIGHT ~ Traditional Sunday Roast £12.95.

Bring your own wine. * LUNCH SPECIAL ~ Monday to Saturday, daily changing blackboard menu, 2 courses £11.99, 3 courses £14.99 (Normal menu also available. Closed Tuesdays.)

T: 01479 831 466 or E: info@andersonsrestaurant.co.uk

www.andersonsrestaurant.co.uk

Garth Hotel

& Restaurant

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Restaurant open 7.30am-9.30pm Lunch served Monday-Sunday 12-5pm Evening meals served 5-9:30pm Early Bird Voucher - Sun-Fri until 6.30pm 15% discount based on pre-booking & taking 2 Courses - booking essential

The Square (Castle Rd) 01479 872 836 14

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Grantown

www.garthhotel.com What’s On

Enjoy a friendly & relaxed atmosphere at the

Spey Bistro Bar @ Scot House Hotel

· Serving Food 7 Days a Week from 9am till Late · Large Outside Seated Area · Sunday Carvery & Buffet 12pm-7pm · Daily Specials Board · Take away Pizza Menu Available Newtonmore Road, Kingussie, PH21 1HE T: 01540 661 351

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THE CROSS AT KINGUSSIE RIVERSIDE RESTAURANT WITH ROOMS

Fine Dining in the Cairngorms Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner AA Two Red Rosette Good Food & Michelin Guides 2016 www.thecross.co.uk 01540 661166

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Fresh Food & Groceries Firewood & Kindling Serving homemade and locally sourced produce daily Open 7 days a week Home Delivery Available

Boat of Garten 01479 831225

Royal Tandoori

THE

ROWAN TRE E

Restaurant and Take-away

COUNTRY HOTEL & RESTAURANT

OPEN 7 DAYS

Evening 5-10.30pm

Authentic Indian Cuisines Three Course Business Lunch ~ £7.95 10% Discount on Take-away Meals A La Carte Menu Freshly Prepared Coffees Private Function Room ~ Ideal For Stag, Hen Or Birthday Parties

Restaurant open Tues-Sun 6-8.30pm Reservations Recommended

Tel: 01479 811199 or 01479 811118

43 Grampian Road, Aviemore PH22 1RH www.royaltandoori.uk.com

Cairngorm Hotel

eat & drink

Lunch 12noon-2pm

M Family run hotel with a warm and friendly atmosphere M Modern Scottish Cuisine using local produce created by Award-winning team M Good Selection of Wines and Local Beers M Over 70 malt Whiskies M Childrens Menu

Loch Alvie, by Aviemore - 2 miles S. on B9152 T: 01479 810 207 www.rowantreehotel.com

Dows Store & The Osprey Café

The Place to Eat and Meet Opposite Aviemore Railway Station

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Great Freshly Prepared Food All Day Beers, Wines, Spirits & Malts In the lively Lounge, All Day ‘til Late with Regular Entertainment + Live TV Sports

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Bed & Highland Breakfast from £52 per person, per night

Grampian Road n Aviemore 01479 810 233 n www.cairngorm.com www.visitcairngorms.com

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to do

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here’s a whole host of things to do in the Cairngorms National Park and more and more people are discovering just how special this place is. There are so many ways to make the most of our beautiful surroundings so what are you waiting for? See www.visitcairngorms.com for more ideas and offers.

Strathspey Highland Ponies Rothiemurchus Aviemore

All levels of rider welcome w Rides organised according to ability w Exhilarating hacks over varied terrain w Spectacular scenery and wildlife All on fit, fun, active and good mannered mounts Book at Rothiemurchus Visitor Centre T: 01479 812345 (daytime) M: 07884 276368 www.rothiemurchus.net

to do

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TreeZone

CAIRNGORM

REINDEER

HIGHLAND HORSE FUN

Kids Pony Rides, Horse Riding & Pony Trekking, Family Horse and Carriage Rides, & Birthday Parties

Roaming free since 1952

10% discount on production of this advert

Unit 2A, Ruthven Road Ind. Est., Next to Railway Station, Kingussie PH21 1ER T: 01540 670000 Mob: 07920 556756 info@highlandhorsefun.com www.highlandhorsefun.com

HILL TRIP

11am everyday 01479 861228

SHOPAND PADDOCKS 10am-5pm

www.cairngormreindeer.co.uk

FIND US IN GLENMORE

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What’s On

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to do www.visitcairngorms.com

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What’s On

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accommodation

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e have a superb choice of quality accommodation in the area. Use the accommodation finder on www.visitcairngorms.com to help plan your trip and keep an eye on the special offers page for last minute deals and great savings.

Cairngorm Highland Bungalows

Great North Lodges

Great North Lodges

silverglades

holiday homes

Group of luxury self catering lodges. Set in fantastic locations, throughout the Spey Valley, within the Cairngorms National Park, Scotland. We cater for all tastes, budgets and party sizes from 1 guest up to 23 guests. (Pets Welcome). Most of our lodges have log fires and wonderful outside Hot Tubs, many have luxury extras, including Saunas, Sky TV, Wi-Fi Internet access and much, much more.

shopping and crafts

www.greatnorthlodges.co.uk gnl@greatnorthlodges.co.uk “Book Online” or call our Aviemore Office on 01479 812266

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tel: 01479 810165 email: info@silverglades.co.uk web: www.silverglades.co.uk

Save up to £50 on October breaks Stylish self-catering bungalows in Aviemore. 3 & 4 star available. From 1-4 bedrooms.

All have TV, DVD, free view channels & Wi-Fi. BBQ, own garden & drive. Some with sauna, wood burner, designer kitchen & flat screen TV. Pets welcome in allocated properties. Guests discounted golf & leisure nearby.

STB HHH & HHHH. Colour brochure & Virtual Tours.

shopping and crafts

LOCH-AN-EILEIN POTTERY

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here are lots of specialist shops throughout the area where you can find everything you need from outdoor kit to gifts for friends, or even a treat for yourself!

What’s On

Beautifully furnished and equipped 1, 2, 3 & 4 bedroomed bungalows sleeping 2 - 8. Open fires.

Mountain views, pets welcome, Leisure Club/Golf facilities available.

Easy walking distance to Aviemore.

S.T.B. 3H - 4H Contact Linda Murray Tel: 01479 810653 www.cairngorm-bungalows.co.uk

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Rothiemurchus, Aviemore PH22 1QP Hand thrown terracotta pottery by Penny Weir.

Open by appointment or by chance if you’re passing ‘Throw Your Own’ on Thursdays, £14 a shot.

Open Daily - Please phone Penny for opening times & workshop details.

01479 810837 info@penspots.co.uk www.penspots.co.uk