The Cairngorms are host not only to Scotland's premier ski resort, but also to the largest area of land above 1000 meters in the British Isles. The interior is dominated by the mass of Ben Macdui, at 1309m / 4296ft, the second highest mountain in Scotland.

The Southern Cairngorms refer to the mountain area south of Braemar and Ballater. It is not as remote as the Northern Cairngorms and dominated by the mountain and magnificent corrie of Lochnagar, and the secluded Dubh Loch. A large part of the Southern Cairngorms lies within the royal estate of Balmoral, whose well known castle is situated midway between Braemar and Ballater, and is the summer retreat of the Queen.