Part two of my trip to Scotland; exploring more lochs, waterfalls, feeding reindeer and seeing polar bears!
Reindeer in the Cairngorms
I don't think I ever imagined, that one day i'd be feeding wild reindeer in the Scottish mountains! But it's an experience i'd 100% recommend. We took a trip to the hills with The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd company, the cost of the excursion was £22 pp, and lasted just under 2 hours. The trip included a guided tour up the hills, where the team had already gathered the reindeer earlier on during the day, as well as a hand feeding experience. The reindeer are super friendly and calm around big groups, however, they are also extremely interested in what food you may have in your bag!
The reindeer were introduced to the Cairngorms National Park in 1952, by Mikel Utsi and Dr. Ethel Lindgren. Reindeer were once completely native to Scotland, and with its sub-arctic qualities, the couple decided to re-introduce the reindeer from their Swedish herd. The centre now has over 150, roaming in the mountains and paddocks.
Plodda Falls
A scenic drive along Loch Ness from Inverness, lies Plodda Falls; a hidden gem within the Highlands. The route from Aviemore was about an hour and a half, along some very small and winding roads! The waterfall is 46 metres high, flowing from Allt na Bodachan. There are two main walking trails you can follow around the forest, which will take you straight to the fall.
Taken by surprise; we did not expect the amazing view overlooking Plodda Falls. A long wooden bridge, which takes you to the top of the waterfall; peering over the edge, as if you are standing on top. I'm not usually scared of heights, but I definitely did not want to look down!
Highland Wildlife Park
We took a trip to see the polar bears, who are cared for by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland. The polar bears who are living in the Scottish Highlands, are part of the European Endangered Species Programme. With the Highlands having the same latitude as parts of Alaska (yes it was absolutely freezing!), the polar bears are in their sub-zero habitat, along with ten acres of space including large ponds and natural vegetation.
The parks main reserve is a drive through safari style, featuring deer, bison, and elk. It is located in Kinguisse, a 20 minute drive from Aviemore and cost around £20pp. Of course, like anywhere in the Highlands, the park also had incredible views of snowy mountains.
Loch an Eilein
Hidden within Rothiemurchus forest, is Loch an Eilein (loch of the island). The 13th century castle built in the middle of the loch, was used for a place of safety. There was once a causeway to the castle, which is now submerged beneath the loch.
We took a super peaceful 3 mile walk around the forest, just beside the water. During the summer months, is is also possible to swim, paddle board and enjoy other water activities. The loch was also voted one of Britain's best picnic spots!
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