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Visiting The Scottish Highland Village of Carrbridge

The small Scottish Highland village of Carrbridge is well worth a visit! With its historical Packhorse Bridge, beautiful local walks and it's local events, including the Golden Spurtle World Porridge Championships.



Vanilla ice cream, Scottish whisky and a small coffee
The Scottish Affy-Gidd-O ©M D Harding Travel Photography

Visiting The Scottish Highland Village of Carrbridge


About Carrbridge


Stone bridge
The Old Packhorse Bridge, Carrbridge ©M D Harding Travel Photography

The village's name is derived from the Gaelic word "carr," meaning rock or stone, and "bridge," referencing the village's iconic 18th-century packhorse bridge. Carrbridge's most famous historical landmark is the Packhorse Bridge, which was built in 1717 and is one of the oldest stone bridges in the Highlands.


How To Get To Carrbridge


Located just off the A9 in the Scottish Highlands, within the Cairngorm National Park. It is most easily reached by car. The journey takes 3 hours from Edinburgh with many interesting places to stop and break up the journey en route including The Hermitage, with its beautiful waterfall, 18th-century folly - Ossian's Hall, and woodland walks.

Alternatively, you can also take the train from Edinburgh which takes 3 hours and is a 20-minute walk from Carrbridge Main Street.


Waterfall
Waterfall at The Hermitage, Dunkeld ©M D Harding Travel Photography

Where To Stay In Carrbridge


There is a small range of accommodation in the village of Carrbridge, including hotels and guest houses. We stayed at an airbnb, Pam's Place. The beautiful cottage is a 10-minute walk away from Carrbridge Main Street with parking facilities. Pam serves the most delicious breakfast rolls, with a choice of different fillings. The room was cosy and very comfortable. We will definitely stay there again.


If you haven't signed up with airbnb, here is a airbnb code that might give you £25 off your first booking.


Carrbridge Main Street
Carrbridge Main Street ©M D Harding Travel Photography

Where To Eat In Carrbridge


There are a few small cafes, hotels, and a local grocery store where you can purchase and enjoy some food. Get in quick to make evening dinner reservations! We were lucky to get a table for dinner on both nights at the Cairn Hotel. The food was Delicious! We especially enjoyed the Scottish twist on the Italian Affogato - Affy-gid-o!


Vanilla ice cream, whisky and coffee
The Scottish Affy-Gid-O at the Cairn Hotel, Carrbridge ©M D Harding Travel Photography

When To Visit Carrbridge


Carrbridge is a great place to visit year-round with events including the Scottish Open Wood Chainsaw Carving Competition - Carve Carrbridge (August) and The Golden Spurtle World Porridge Championships (October).



Poster advertising The Golden Spurtle World Porridge Making Champion event.
The Golden Spurtle World Porridge Making Championship, Carrbridge ©M D Harding Travel Photography

What To Pack


Our traditional Scottish weather can see up to four seasons in one day! If you can, pack for wearing layers, a good pair of walking shoes/boots, waterproof trousers, and a good rain jacket. With all the beautiful walks and nearby outdoor activities, you won't want to miss a thing, even with the changeable weather.


For more ideas on clothing for all seasons check out: Versatile Clothing For All Weather Adventures. I am a huge fan of the brands Craghoppers and Meier. After investing in a range of pieces years ago. They are still staples in my traveling wardrope.



Michelle with the Packhorse Bridge
Michelle at the Carrbridge Packhorse Bridge, Carrbridge ©M D Harding Travel Photography

Must See & Do's In Carrbridge and Surrounding Area


The village of Carrbridge is famous for its 18th-century Packhorse Bridge which crosses over the River Dulnain, a tributary of the Spey and beautiful woodland walks. Nearby is the Landmark Adventure Centre, you might also like to visit the Loch Garten RSPB Centre. Aviemore is another great place to visit with its local brewery, the Aviemore Reindeer Centre, you could also take a ride on the 2km funicular - Cairngorm Mountain Railway.



Hand feeding a reindeer
Hand feeding the Uk's only wild reindeer ©M D Harding Travel Photography

I hope you have enjoyed reading and are feeling inspired to visit Carrbidge and the surround areas.


Until next time, safe travels,

Michelle



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