We are delighted that Toni Miles-Macdonald MBA joined our team at the start of the summer as our new Operations Manager working alongside Clare our Head of Ops. Together they make, in our oppionin, the best Operations team, managing the day to day running of our lodges and our lodge checkers, but we thought we'd ask Toni to tell you a little more about what she loves about living in the Cairngorms...
'I adore the area, fully enjoying the outdoor lifestyle - running, ski touring and cycling in the most wonderful natural environment.
Trail Running:
A favourite challenging, but rewarding running route on good weather days, starts at Glenmore and finishes at Nethy Bridge. Starting at Glenmore woodland track leads to a steady climb up and over Meall a’ Bhuachaille, followed by an incredible but slightly technical downhill to reach Ryvoan Bothy. Thereafter following forest track and the river to reach Nethy Bridge, via winding paths with stunning views. Once in Nethy Bridge, a well deserved cup of coffee and delicious cake awaits at the wonderful Nethy Cafe.
Dog Walking:
A regular walk for Harley the 10 year old black labrador is to Utsi’s hut from the Hayfield. It is a gentle walk on wide sandy paths, despite an initial uphill section. Although a bench half way up the climb offers a welcome rest and amazing views to the beach at Loch Morlich. Once past the water tank and round to Utsi’s hut, within the Cairngorm reindeer herd enclosure, quiet seclusion can be found in the woodland, even on the busiest day.
Mountain Biking:
A great route taking in the Rothiemurchus and Inshriach forests, starts at Coylumbridge campsite linking through towards the iron bridge over to Loch an Eilein. Thereafter turning off to pass Loch Gamhna using the very aptly named ‘rocky road’ path, passing Drake’s Bothy. Beautiful forest tracks then lead out to Feshiebridge with the opportunity to sit and look at the deep pools and flowing water. Loch Insh outdoor centre offers a fantastic stopping off point for a well earned bacon roll.'
You can find out a bit more about Toni and the rest of the team here: https://www.handpickedlodges.com/pages/about_us