At Carrbridge, the Landmark Forest heritage Park offers plenty for families. Though its waterslides are its most conspicuous feature, there are plenty of other things to see and do (whatever the weather), from a treetop trail to the Microworld exhibition, with much of the 30-acre woodland park designed to allow energetic children to let off steam.

One of Strathspey's most famous annual visitors is the osprey. A conservation success story, ospreys are quite common along the river valley, but the most famous pair nest near the Royal Society for the Protection of Bird's Osprey Centre by Loch Garten, where close-circuit tv and telescopes ensure all their domestic and nesting arrangements are under close view. The RSPB also care for much of the pinewoods around Abernethy, where birdwatchers can enjoy the local birdy specialities including crested tit, crossbill and the elusive capercaillie.

Boat of Garten in particular has its own special atmosphere, picturesquely time-warped by the railway station when a steam train from Aviemore arrives. (The terminus at Broomhill was Glenbogle Station in the 'Monarch of the Glen' tv series.) However, Boat of Garten is also noted for its golf course, attractively set out among the birchwoods, and originally designed by the famous James Braid. (Nine-hole smaller courses also at Carrbridge and Nethybridge.)

The Loch Garten and the Abernethy area offering a superb range of walking in the woods, while the Speyside Way takes in Nethy Bridge and Boat of Garten. National Cycle Route No 7 (Inverness-Glasgow) also passes through Boat of Garten, with good off-road sections.

In summary, this is a rural area north of the big hills. Tucked into the well-wooded and rolling terrain are peaceful little communities catering for visitors who are walkers, golfers, cyclists, anglers or birdwatchers (and steam train enthusiasts!). At the same time, there is a good range of other family attractions within easy reach all along Strathspey.