Looking for a Scottish road trip that swaps the crowds for soaring peaks and winding Highland passes? The Snow Roads Scenic Route is a 90-mile journey through the Cairngorms National Park, where every turn reveals something new: ancient forests, whisky-rich glens, dark skies glittering with stars and villages that feel frozen in time (in the best way). Whether you’re chasing outdoor adventure, cosy pubs or just the joy of parking up your motorhome in the middle of all that wild beauty, this 5-day Snow Roads itinerary in the Cairngorms will show you the best stops, campsites and hidden gems along the way.
Day 1 - Blairgowrie to Glenshee
Driving distance: 20 miles
Wake up in the bustling market town of Blairgowrie, greet the River Ericht, fill up on a caffeine treat in a cosy café and gear up for the adventure ahead. Your drive climbs into the mountains, following Britain’s highest public road via the dramatic Cairnwell Pass—a spellbinding introduction to rugged moors, heather-clad hills and perhaps a shy red deer.
Arrive at Glenshee Ski Centre, where the landscape turns into an outdoor playground with ski lifts, hiking trails or a cheeky hot brew in the café.
Things to do:
Drive the Cairnwell Pass. Watch the scenery shift from rolling farmland to expansive moorland horizons: dramatic, quiet, and alive.
Stop at the historic Spittal of Glenshee, once a vital travellers’ rest and now a gateway to countless walking trails and Highland wildlife spotting. Just a little further on, pause at the Devil’s Elbow, a dramatic double hairpin bend offering sweeping views over upper Glenshee’s rugged peaks and valleys.
Explore Glenshee Ski Centre for yourself. Glenshee isn’t just for skiers—its rolling peaks also make a thrilling launchpad for paragliding, mountain biking and high-altitude hiking, offering year-round adventure in the heart of the Highlands.
Blairgowrie is a charming market town known for its berry fields, riverside walks and cosy cafés. It’s the perfect place to stock up on local produce or enjoy a relaxed morning before tackling the dramatic climb into the Cairngorms.
Staying at: Glenshee Ski Centre Motorhome Parking
Situated at the Glenshee Ski Centre, this parking area offers electric hookups and is close to the centre's facilities, including a café. It's an ideal spot for motorhome travellers seeking a convenient and scenic overnight stop. It’s simple, but it’ll do!
Old Military Rd, Ballater AB35 5XU
56.886635, -3.414626
Day 2 - Glenshee to Ballater
Driving distance: 28 miles
Rise and shine! It’s time to continue along the Snow Roads Scenic Route via Braemar and the River Dee. Each mile takes you deeper into Royal Deeside, revealing soaring peaks and the hush of ancient forests. Pause at ‘The Watchers,’ an evocative sculptural installation that begs you to slow down and soak it all in. End your day in Ballater, where royal history, salmon riverbanks and mellow Highland charm await.
Things to do:
Art lovers can’t leave without stopping by The Watchers art installation. This reflective sculptural landscape attracts visitors from across the country.
Any Scottish road trip will contain an abundance of castles, and the Snow Road Scenic Route is no different. Visit Braemar & Kindrochit Castle to wander ruins nestled in an intimate village, steeped in history and dramatic Highland settings.
Stroll Ballater & Royal Grounds, also known as Queen Victoria’s playground. It features shops, cafés, and optional tours of Balmoral to add a royal flourish.
Staying at: Braemar Caravan Park
What a tiring second day of your Scotland Scenic Route road trip! Luckily, you’ll get a restorative night’s sleep at Braemar Caravan Park. It's known for its peaceful surroundings, as they have strict rules around noise and disturbances—thankfully! Also, it's known among return guests to have the best hot showers in the region, so go try them for yourself.
Day 3 - Ballater to Tomintoul
Driving distance: 38 miles
After a lazy morning in Ballater and one more hot shower at your campsite, you’ll drift north towards Tomintoul, Scotland’s highest village, nestled among sparkling streams and rolling hills. Sip and learn at the Glenlivet Distillery or explore the quirky mirrored art installation ‘Still,’ reflecting both sky and serenity just outside town. As night falls, Tomintoul’s Dark Sky status promises a show of stars, if you’re lucky.
Things to do:
Day three of our Scotland Scenic Route itinerary deserves a shot of whisky, wouldn’t you agree? Tour Glenlivet Distillery for everything from distilling secrets to smooth sips; this stop brings a touch of Speyside warmth to your route.
Time for another incredible artwork, and this time it's the ‘Still’ installation near Tomintoul. Mirrors uniquely capture the landscape, which makes it seem like you’re seeing the Highlands twice, once in reality and again in reflection.
Scotland is home to some of the best stargazing locations. Head to the Dark-Sky Tomintoul with something to drink or snack. Above the highest Highland village, the night sky opens up—ideal for galaxy-gazing adventures.
Staying at: Tomintoul Bowling Club Caravan Site
Park up at Tomintoul Bowling Club Caravan Site, a motorhome-friendly spot with electric hookups, fresh water and stunning views across the Lecht hills. It's cosy, quiet and ideal for gazing up at the starry night. This campsite is also within walking distance of restaurants and various stores.
8 Lecht Dr, Tomintoul, Ballindalloch AB37 9EH
57.250677, -3.376342
Day 4 - Tomintoul to Grantown-on-Spey
Driving distance: 15 miles
A shorter drive is on the cards today, which leaves more time for exploring. Cruise through more of the Lecht Pass before dropping into Grantown-on-Spey, a graceful Georgian town perched beside the River Spey. Wander local trails, visit galleries or the heritage museum, and soak up that laid-back, small-town Highland vibe. Later, wander the riverside or lose yourself in cafés and independent shops.
Things to do:
Ride through the Lecht Hills. Rugged, open moors guide your journey with dramatic stretches that’ll enrich your slow travel souls.
Explore the charming town of Grantown-on-Spey. Georgian architecture, riverside strolls, and cafes make this a peaceful, cultured stop.
Step back in time at the Grantown Museum, where you’ll uncover stories of the town’s Georgian origins and its role in Highland history. Afterwards, stretch your legs along the Spey’s peaceful river trails, lined with ancient pines and the occasional red squirrel, offering a tranquil slice of nature just minutes from the town centre.
Staying at: Grantown-on-Spey Caravan Park
Spacious grassy pitches await you at Grantown-on-Spey Caravan Park. The campsite is peaceful, surrounded by woodland and beside the River Spey. It's a short walk from the town centre, where you can grab a nice cup of coffee or a bite to eat at a pub.
Seafield Ave, Grantown-on-Spey PH26 3JQ
57.334714, -3.618403
Day 5 - Grantown-on-Spey to Glenmore
Driving distance: 20 miles
Slip away from Grantown-on-Spey into the woodland heart of the Cairngorms, back toward Aviemore and Glenmore. Spend your final day wandering around the magical Loch an Eilein, with its fairytale island castle and Caledonian forest. It’s the perfect, peaceful Highland finale before you drift homewards or continue your adventure.
Things to do:
Walk Loch an Eilein’s loop trail. An enchanting forest walk around a loch with a tiny island castle, like a Highland storybook scene come to life.
Go birdwatching in the forest. Keep your binoculars ready for rare Highland species like crested tits, redstarts, and crossbills flitting through the ancient pines. The quiet trails around Loch Morlich and Loch an Eilein make the perfect backdrop for a slow, mindful morning surrounded by birdsong.
Are you brave enough to take a dip in Loch Morlich? On a warm day, swap hiking boots for bare feet and enjoy a refreshing paddle or even some watersports. Its golden sandy beach, framed by towering Cairngorm peaks, makes it one of Scotland’s most unique lochside spots.
Staying at: Glenmore Campsite
For your final night of the Snow Roads Scenic Route, you can pitch up at Glenmore Campsite. Situated on the shores of Loch Morlich, this campsite is framed by ancient pines. You’ll feel miles away from the bustle of daily life here, and enjoy a luxurious evening with their modern facilities and clean amenities.
Glenmore Campsite, Glenmore, Aviemore PH22 1QU
57.167074, -3.695104
There we have it: five days, countless bends and more Highland magic than you can fit into a camera roll. The Snow Roads trail through the Cairngorms is a journey that lingers long after you’ve turned the engine off. From star-studded skies over Tomintoul to morning coffees with mountain views, it’s a route that proves the Cairngorms are best savoured slowly, one stop (and one dram) at a time. So fuel up, park up and let the Highlands set the pace for your next unforgettable motorhome escape.
Goboony can help you find the perfect motorhome hire in Scotland for your trip.
Looking for more Scottish inspiration? You’ll find inspiration in our Glen Coe road trip or Isle of Mull itinerary.
