SNH chairman unveils new signage and peregrine nest-cam at reserve

Keith Legge, CEO SYHA Hostelling Scotland, will also attend with Pete Crane from the Cairngorms National Park Authority, and guests from the area.

SNH recently installed new signage and interpretation at Aviemore Youth Hostel run by SYHA Hostelling Scotland (SYHA), making it easier for visitors to discover the reserve. There is also a nest-cam of peregrines which beams live images.

The official launch will take place at the youth hostel on Tuesday 28 June at 2pm so that those attending can view the new displays, peregrine webcam and signage.

Visitors can now navigate their way to the NNR after new and improved signs, provided by SNH, were installed at the south end of Grampian Road at the entrance track to the youth hostel.

The reserve, which showcases stunning examples of landscape, woodland, insects, and the peregrines, sits west of Aviemore and on the other side of the A9 Inverness-Perth road.

The initiative is a joint project involving Aviemore Youth Hostel and SNH with Cairngorms National Park Authority giving advice. SNH funded the project – worth £20,000 – and the youth hostel provided the facilities.

Mr Ross said: “I am delighted to be unveiling the new-look signage which will be of value to visitors and there are also live webcam images beamed from the peregrine nest on the cliff above. The improved signage makes it easier to visit this special place, and will ensure that people have a chance to savour the wildlife of the area, while also being of benefit to their health and well-being.

“Craigellachie NNR represents one of our finest upland birch woodland habitats and its insects – particularly moths – and, of course, the peregrines, are a major attraction.”

Keith Legge said: “SYHA are absolutely delighted to be working again in partnership with SNH in promoting the appreciation of Scotland’s natural assets in providing a welcoming home for Craigellachie NNR interpretation and nest-cam to view the peregrines. The entire project fits well with our charitable ethos and commitment to the environment.”

The reserve’s entrance is located at the youth hostel at the town’s southern end which has directional signs from the road leading south out of Aviemore.

Visitors can take the youth hostel track, go past a caravan park, and enter the reserve via a subway under the A9. An access track through this tunnel then leads into Craigellachie proper.

Aviemore Youth Hostel provides teas and coffees and the new-look information, including some interactive activities for children, will enhance the visitor experience for everyone. The overall cost of the project was around £20,000.