River tubing is the sort of activity that sounds silly until you try it, and then you want to do it again. On the River Feshie, a clear Highland river that drains from the western Cairngorms into the Spey, a guide equips you with a wetsuit, helmet, buoyancy aid and a large inflated tube, then leads you down a stretch of water chosen for fun rather than danger. You float through pools, ride small rapids, spin through eddies and occasionally drift under overhanging trees, with the guide explaining the river's features and keeping everyone safe. Glen Feshie is a beautiful setting, with granite boulders, birch and Scots pine on the banks, and views of the Cairngorm hills from the water. The activity lasts a couple of hours, plenty of time to get cold and enjoy it, and is suitable for most active people who are comfortable in water. It is a different way to experience the national park, with the thrill of whitewater and none of the technical skill that kayaking or rafting require.
Understanding the format helps you decide whether it suits you. Groups meet at a base in or near Aviemore, change into wetsuits, boots and helmets, and receive a safety briefing covering how to position yourself in the tube, how to float and how to signal. A short transfer takes you to the river, and then you drift with the current under the guide's direction. Water temperatures in the Highlands are cold even in summer, which is why wetsuits are provided and why the experience is invigorating rather than relaxing.
River conditions determine the route. After heavy rain the Feshie runs faster and may be unsafe, so operators may change sections or cancel; after dry spells water levels can be low, which means more bumping and scraping. Guides check levels on the day and adapt the route. This is why booking terms and flexibility matter: if you travel specifically for the activity, build a spare day into your itinerary in case of postponement.
Fitness and comfort in water are the main requirements. You do not need to be an expert swimmer, but you should be able to cope with cold water and a little water in the face, and you should be able to climb back into the tube or onto the bank if needed. Minimum ages and weight limits apply, usually in the teenage range, and the operator will confirm them. People with heart conditions, back problems or pregnancy should check with the operator and a doctor.
After the session there is time to warm up, change into dry clothes and compare stories. Pack a towel, dry clothes, a warm top and a hot drink, and consider plans for lunch or dinner nearby. Many people pair the tubing with a gentler activity the next day, such as the Strathspey Railway or the Loch an Eilein walk, because the cold water can leave you pleasantly tired. For groups of friends or teenagers it is among the most fun things to do in the area.
If you are travelling in a group, tell the operator about the range of confidence and swimming ability beforehand, because guides can place nervous participants sensibly in the line. Keep valuables at the base, wear secure footwear if you bring your own, and listen carefully to the briefing, which covers the few simple actions that keep everyone safe and having fun.
What to expect
The experience
A guided river-tubing session on the River Feshie, with wetsuit, helmet and buoyancy aid provided and a short transfer to the river.
Best time
Summer and early autumn, when air temperatures are most comfortable.
How long
About two to three hours including kitting up.
Tips
Bring a towel and dry clothes, expect cold water, and build in a spare day in case high or low river levels change the plan.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active visitors, friends and teenagers who want something different.
- Families
- Good for families with teenagers; check minimum age and weight.
- Couples
- A fun, shared adventure for adventurous couples.
- Pair with
- A relaxed day at Loch an Eilein or the steam railway.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Do I need to swim well?+
You should be comfortable in water, but you float in a tube with a buoyancy aid. Tell the guide about any concerns.
Is the water cold?+
Yes, even in summer. Wetsuits are provided but the experience is invigorating rather than warm.
What if the river is too high or low?+
Guides check conditions and may change the route or reschedule. Check the operator's cancellation terms.
What age can take part?+
Minimum ages and weight limits apply, usually for teenagers and up. Confirm with the operator.
What should I bring?+
A towel, dry clothes, a warm top and swimwear to wear under the wetsuit.
