Aviemore, Skiing & Snowbo...

Cairngorm is fabulous for first timers. The plateau near the summit, which is accessed by funicular railway is relatively flat and gentle and tends to have snow when the rest of the mountain doesn’t, allowing lessons for beginners to go on all season.

Improvers also have it pretty easy here. Several green pistes link up creating one continuous run from top to bottom. This sort of thing really helps beginners and improvers find their feet and that all important confidence. And following on from that the mountain boasts several gentle blue runs for further development.

In good conditions this mountain like all Scottish ski areas offers some excellent sport for intermediates. The mountain is separated into two distinct sectors, Coire Cas and Coire Na Ciste. The former being suitable for anyone from beginner to intermediate and the latter more suited to intermediate and above. The White Lady is one of the biggest challenges facing intermediates on Cairngorm and in the right conditions can prove an exhilarating ride. There’s also a few top to bottom thigh burners following routes that combine a variety of piste grades. These are great for racing mates and testing your stamina.

Advanced riders can have fun here but don’t expect too much. The best runs for expert’s on-piste are the White Lady which is definitely no walk in the park when covered in icy moguls and the West Wall and No2 Gully in the Coire Na Ciste sector can be especially good following a dump of fresh snow. An alternative option for better riders and even some strong intermediates is to strap on some skins or snowshoes and do some touring. This part of the Cairngorms is ideal for day touring and many more exciting and challenging runs can be found away from the crowded pistes.

Airborne addicts will find the Vans terrain park up on the plateau.