The Travel Guide
The Book of Travel guides were published almost yearly and generally followed a pattern of containing a paragraph or two on most locations in the UK, Europe, Eastern Mediterranean, Africa and Russia, along with travel tips, maps, illustrations, helpful contacts and advertisements.
For information about the book “The Queen” Newspaper Book of Travel: 1907 see the separate article below
Aviemore: 1907 entry
Aviemore (Gaelic, Abh-mohr) – “Great Water”) is situated in the county of Inverness, and is the junction station on the Highland Railway, where the direct line from Inverness and the north and west joins the line from Grantown, Forres, Elgin, and Aberdeen. All trains stop at Aviemore, which forms a convenient resting-place for passengers to or from Inverness and the north, and to and from the west coast. The Station Hotel there stands about 900 feet above sea level on a terrace at the base of Craigellachie Rock, a bold and wooded height on the mutual border of the ancient clanship districts of Badenoch and Strathspey, and which gave the clan Grant their slogan or war-cry. “Stand fast, Craigellachie!” The view from the hotel, which is the nearest and most convenient starting point for the ascent of Cairngorm, and for pedestrians to Braemar by Larig Ghru, is typically Highland in character. In the foreground is the river Spey, flowing through arable, meadow and heather-clad moorland. Beyond on the east and north stretch the west pine forests of Rothiemurchus and Glenmore, Abernethy and Duthil. Encircling the landscape are the Grampian Mountains and the Monadhliadh Hills.
Aviemore: 21st Century edition
Aviemore, nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands within Inverness-shire, remains a pivotal hub for travellers exploring this breathtaking region. Serving as a critical junction on the Highland Railway, it connects the paths from Inverness, the north and west, to Grantown, Forres, Elgin, and Aberdeen. Aviemore’s strategic location continues to make it an essential stop for those journeying to Inverness and the north or venturing towards the scenic west coast.
Station Hotel: Positioned approximately 900 feet above sea level, the Station Hotel lies at the foot of the imposing Craigellachie Rock, a prominent feature marking the boundary between the historic districts of Badenoch and Strathspey. This area, steeped in the lore of the clan Grant with its rallying cry “Stand fast, Craigellachie!”, offers guests a unique vantage point. The hotel serves as an ideal base for adventurers aiming to conquer Cairngorm or trek through the Larig Ghru pass to Braemar, immersing themselves in the rugged beauty of the Scottish landscape.
Scenery: The hotel’s surroundings are quintessentially Highland. The Spey River, with its meandering course through fertile lands, meadows, and heather-rich moors, provides a serene foreground. To the east and north, the ancient pine forests of Rothiemurchus, Glenmore, Abernethy, and Duthil stretch out, leading the eye towards the encircling majesty of the Grampian Mountains and the Monadhliadh Hills. This panorama encapsulates the wild, unspoiled essence of the Highlands, offering a retreat into nature’s embrace.
Activities: Aviemore today remains a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. Beyond its historical railway significance, it serves as a gateway to a plethora of activities. From hiking and mountain biking in the summer to skiing and snowboarding in the winter, the area caters to a wide range of interests. The nearby Cairngorms National Park, a haven of biodiversity and natural beauty, provides endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Conclusion: Aviemore, with its Gaelic name signifying the “Great Water,” continues to be a jewel in the crown of the Scottish Highlands. Its combination of historical importance, natural beauty, and outdoor pursuits ensures its place as a beloved destination for travellers seeking the essence of Highland adventure. Whether you’re pausing briefly on a journey through the Highlands or setting out to explore the rugged landscapes, Aviemore offers a warm welcome amidst some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery.
For more information about Aviemore, visit the official website.
