Mar Lodge National Nature Reserve

Calling all walkers and nature lovers! If you want to escape from the chaos of the city, then there’s no better place to do it than the Mar Lodge Estate National Reserve, where you’ll be able to immerse yourself in more than 29,000 acres of beautiful, wild Scottish landscapes.

Home to moorland, 4 of the 5 highest mountains in the UK, wetlands and forests that host some of the UK’s most cherished wildlife, this park is one of the most vital areas for nature conservation in Britain. The site is so breath-taking that it has featured in the famous blockbuster film Batman The Dark Knight’s opening scene! There are plenty of ways to experience the reserve: enjoy spectacular views of the site by scaling the peaks of Ben Macdui, the second highest mountain in the UK; wildcamp in the woodlands and discover Mesolithic remnants and post-medieval townships. The reserve is of course a paradise for all kinds of wildlife, so it’s rangers offer nature spotting and guided tours, perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts or any animal lovers. If you want something a little more adrenaline oriented, not to worry – mar lodge holds seasonal sporting events, with miles of off-roading paths perfect for horse riding.

• Entry to the reserve and estate is free.
• Check their twitter page for updates on events and activities as well as seasonal opening times.