Construction and landscaping works, undertaken by McGowan Environmental Engineering Ltd, will expand the viewing terrace by four times its original size, enabling visitors to enjoy the stunning views of Loch Morlich and the Spey Valley while they dine and drink outside this summer.

In the winter, the extension will improve snow clearing, allowing visitors to enjoy the space all year round. Visitors will be able to learn more about the unique mountain environment with the addition of interpretation boards on the viewing terrace as well as a direct path to the 270° immersive exhibition space with panoramic views of the Cairngorms.

The existing viewing terrace will remain open to visitors during the works, with efforts being made to minimise disruption until the project’s completion later this summer.

The viewing terrace can be easily reached by the Cairngorm Mountain Railway to the Top Station. At the Ptarmigan building, visitors can also enjoy the UK’s highest restaurant, a Learning Zone with interactive 3D sandboxes where children can create their own natural environments, as well as The Shop at the Top Station with a wide range of boutique gifts, clothing and products to support local artisan creators.

The viewing terrace expansion is part of Cairngorm Mountain Resort’s masterplan to improve the visitor experience and create a year-round resort. New experiences include mountain tubing and guided walks around the Northern Corries and the Cairn Gorm summit, as well as upcoming family-friendly Mountain Bike Park.

Susan Smith, CEO of CMSL, said: “As part of our new and exciting range of summer activities, we are delighted to be expanding the viewing terrace to offer a beautiful backdrop for dining, drinking and socialising. We look forward to welcoming visitors to our new space to experience the spectacular landscape that Cairngorm Mountain has to offer.”