The Mountain Garden

A Reflection of the Wild Mountain Landscape

Open from Easter to Autumn every day. Free admission (car parking charges do apply).

First introduced to Cairngorm Mountain in the 1970s, the concept of a mountain garden was to create a reflection of the wild mountain landscape that surrounds the resort. The garden as you see it today was brought to life following construction of the Funicular railway in 2001 and has grown over the past 20 years into a vibrant environment home to many native animals, flora and fauna.

Mountain garden at Cairngorm Mountain

A Wildlife Haven in the Cairngorms

The Cairngorms present a harsh environment for wildlife. The rugged landscape is exposed to all manner of weather making it challenging place to inhabit for birds, animals and plant life. The cultivation of the garden by our ranger service over the years has led to some not so common visitors becoming year-round residents.

It has become a small haven for thriving wildlife and locally provenanced species of plants, sedges, shrubs and trees that grow in mountains today.

Coire Cas Viewpoint & Hide

The Coire Cas viewpoint and wildlife hide offer an insight into local wildlife and one of the most breathtaking views of the mountain. Take a walk through the hide and learn of the native inhabitants of the Cairngorms, catch a glimpse of the hungry locals at our feeding tables and watch the story of our nesting family of Ring Ouzel unfold.

Have a seat at the viewpoint, listen to the tranquil sounds of the running water, the singing birds and experience one of the most stunning views of the Coire Cas.

The Highest Phone Box in the UK

The Mountain Garden is also home to the highest working phone box in the UK. Before the days of mobile phones, this was the only way to reach emergency services if there had been an accident on the mountain. The iconic red phone box, which is still operational to this day, is located on the top terrace of the mountain garden.

Want to become a ‘local hero’ and surprise your friends? Call the phone box on 01479 861209.

The Camera Obscura

The camera obscura is also located in the mountain garden and open during spring to autumn with free entry. It stands at 635m above sea level.

‘The Dark Room’ camera obscura rotates slowly projecting a 360⁰ real-time view of the surrounding landscape onto a table before your eyes.

The Mountain Quiz

Pick up your free Mountain Quiz from The Mountain Shop or The Ticket Office and learn all about the mountain garden in a fun, educational way.

It’s a great activity for families. If you complete the quiz you can return it to the Mountain Shop and receive a prize for just £1.