11th Dec 2009 Ski Season at Muckrach
The locals affectionately refer to it as 'The Hill'. When I spoke to Colin Kirkwood, Marketing Executive of the Cairngorm Mountain, not even he could tell me exactly why; a sign of modesty, perhaps, or an ironic quirk? Whichever way you look at it, to refer to a mountain range which features the highest, coldest and snowiest plateaux in the British Isles, and which is home to five of the six highest mountains in Scotland as 'The Hill' is somewhat of an understatement.
Cairn Gorm is a mountain in the Scottish Highlands overlooking Strathspey and the town of Aviemore. At 1245metres (4084 ft) it is the sixth highest mountain in the United Kingdom. Its flanks provide a wild and majestic home for a variety of animals from eagles and osprey to wildcats and pine martins. Yet at this time of year it has to be said that some of the wildest creatures on the slopes are the snow sport enthusiasts who come from across Europe to test themselves in this rugged landscape.The Ski resort has been up and running since the sixties and has constantly been recreating itself to keep up with competition from across the channel. The addition of the funicular railway has certainly made a days skiing easier for all the family to enjoy and the Partmigan restaurant, at 1097m above sea level, is the highest in Britain.
The slopes have now been open for two weeks and today has seen another good day with -4oc at the top and low winds allowing trouble free skiing for all. The settled weather looks set to stay with us for a few days, so if you are wrapped up warm enough then the going is good. For a more detailed forecast check out the mountains web page at http://www.cairngormmountain.co.uk/.
So why not make a weekend of it? The roads are clear and flights to Inverness are available from Gatwick, Luton, Midlands, Manchester and Bristol. http://www.invernessairport.com/
And where better to stay than right here with us at the Muckrach Lodge, just 45 minutes from the airport, and only twenty minutes from the mountain. With our roaring log fires, comfortable well furnished rooms and a helpful ski knowledgeable staff, we are perfectly situated to be your ski weekend base. Our traditional hearty Scottish breakfasts will set you in good stead for a day on the slopes and our three course a la carte evening menu and tempting wine list will revive and relax you upon your return.
So pack up the thermals, don the ear muffs and pay us a visit for some festive fun!
