The highest village in the Cairngorms National Park (though the residents of Dalwhinnie might argue over a few metres!), Tomintoul, from the Gaelic for Hillock of the Barn, is often viewed as its northwest gateway and the entrance to the Highlands. Tomintoul has its own village web site www.visittomintoul.co.uk.

As with many towns and villages in the Highlands, the Tomintoul distillery in the heart of Speyside on the Glenlivet Estate is a must for tourists. Pony trek along traffic-free forest tracks, hill paths and open moorland, you will be accompanied by an experienced, friendly guide from Tomintoul riding centre.  Only 15mins drive fro  the Lecht snow sports resort, Tomintoul if a perfect base for sking and snowboarding.  They alos have a chair lift running in the summer for mountain bikes.

Enjoy a meal at the Glen Avon, a glass of Scotland's finest whisky or a traditional real ale in the warm and friendly atmosphere of the lounge bar. The Bridge of Brown Tea room is biker friendly and offers a wide range of homemade cakes & pastries, teas, coffees, good food. Gift shop, ice cream. The Cock House in the Tomintoul square is gaining great reputation, with locals and visitors enjoy fine Highland cuisine using fresh local produce in the relaxing atmosphere. Also get a peak at the largest bottle of whisky ever made.

If youre looking for an activity-based break then there are superb golf courses in Grantown-on-Spey and Boat of Garten.  Glenlivets only course near Tomintoul, they have created a heady mix of challenging golf and aesthetic appeal. Ballindalloch Castle golf course with its nine holes and eighteen tees, the course provides a fair test for golfers of all standards and is well placed to become known as the finest course in Scotland with this particular configuration.

Tomintoul has its own Highland Games, usually on the mid Saturday of July, which is one of the highlights of the year. First held in 1842, these are one of the oldest in Scotland. New Year's Eve is always a special time in Tomintoul. Feasting, singing, dancing, pipe bands and whisky all combine to make seeing in a Tomintoul Hogmanay an unforgettable experience.

When travelling in the Glenlivet area, why not drop into Whisky Castle and Highland Market in Tomintoul where they have over 550 whiskies for sale. The Scots believe that whisky is the 'life blood' of Scotland. Aanside studios is a great place to purchase some local crafts and art work.