You can just about see Loch Insh Watersports Centre while sitting at the breakfast bar in our self catering cottage, which makes it an exciting prospect at breakfast time on a sunny day.

As a 14-year old scout, I (Roger) learnt to canoe here, which was quite a while ago and they’re still going strong. I recently went back with some pals to do a little river kayaking, which was great fun. We were taken by minibus to Kingussie, from where we kayaked back to Loch Insh. Just one recommendation – take the canadian open canoes which are designed for distance rather than the kayaks that are highly manoeverable, but not quite so good at going in a straight line. At least, that was our excuse, and we’re sticking to it.

You’re based in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park, and there is a vast range of activities for you to enjoy. Here are a few of the highlights, (which are all in this Google Map).

Much of the outdoor fun is found in the Aviemore Rothiemurchus estate, on the slopes of the Cairngorms. Activities both free and paid range from archery, clay shooting, wildlife watching and sled dog tours. There are miles of well maintained paths for walking, mountain biking and pony trekking, many suitable for pushchairs and wheel chair users.

Fans of tv’s Monarch of the Glen may recognise the Strathspey Steam Railway and much of the Rothiemurchus estate land.

Bikes and kid trailers can be hired from Bothy Bikes, run by staff who know and love the Cairngorms area. More exciting mountain biking trails can be found at Laggan Wolftrax with fun blue rides to bone-crunching black routes.

Water sports including canoeing and windsurfing are available at many locations including Loch Insh, next to the RSPB Insh Marshes Reserve. Nature lovers can see ospreys and red squirrels at RSPB Loch Garten Reserve

For snow sports, walking and mountaineering, plus dining and spectacular views you can visit Cairngorm Mountain. Easily accessible with the funicular railway. Further down the slopes you can visit Glenmore Forest Centre, and visit the Reindeer.

Families can escape the weather at the Hilton Coylumbridge Funhouse, with its large soft-play area, mini-golf and arcade games.

Adults and children both love the Landmark Visitors Centre with treetop walks, water coasters and indoor adventure areas. You can easily spend a whole day at the Highland Wildlife Park, right on your doorstep – see wolves, red pandas and snow monkeys at close quarters and bison, red deer and elks on the drive through safari.

Teenagers can burn off steam at Aviemore’s Extreme Dreme indoor climbing wall, with opportunities for outdoor adrenaline bursts jumping from bridges and river raiding. The Macdonald resort in Aviemore have a large indoor pool, with slides and baby splash pool, a modern gym and spa facilities.

The Highland Folk Museum is another good day out, bringing to life the domestic and working conditions of earlier Highland people.

Foodies are spoiled for choice at the Rothiemurchus farm shop and deli or can go next door to Ord Ban who serve simply prepared locally sourced treats such as venison stew and smoked trout sandwiches. Aviemore’s Mountain Cafe is a personal favourite, with an outstanding range of home cooked cakes and food, including gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options, and if you can’t be bothered cooking, catering.

For groceries, Aviemore has a small Tesco and an independent butcher who sells fresh fish and deli items. Kingussie has a Co-op and the closest shop is Kincraig’s post office with a surprising range of goodies.

Beer lovers can sample a range of Scottish beers at the Aviemore Beer Festival or visit local Cairngorm Brewery any time of the year. There are many whisky distilleries including Dalwhinnie, Glenlivet and Glenfiddich and the Whisky Castle in Tomintoul sells an extensive range of independent whiskies.

Inverness offers all the major high street retailers, most of which are in the covered Eastgate shopping centre

Art lovers can enjoy Frank Bruce’s Sculpture Trail at Feshiebridge, with all abilities paths. There are many potteries, artists and crafters dotted around the area.

Other local services are listed here including doctor, dentist, vets and tourist information.