In our series of behind-the-scenes interviews with the people who help The Cairn run on a day to day basis, we speak to Victoria Atkinson, Visitor Experience Host, about her role at the distillery and what she likes to do in her spare time.
What made you decide to work at The Cairn?
It was a nice opportunity to do something a bit different, to pursue more of my hobbies and to move back to the hospitality industry. I was a Chartered Surveyor for 20+ years and settled in the Cairngorms around 20 years ago. It's been lovely to see the Cairn Distillery grow, and I will enjoy watching it become more and more established in the years to come too.
What do you like best about your job?
Our team and working environment - we have a great group of people who work here, young and old and our banter is second to none! It's all helped along with the stunning views and location of course. I also enjoy serving our guests and prepping the food on our menu - I actually make the tablet we serve with our teas and coffees for visitors!
The Cairn is an inspirational place - what has it encouraged you to do?
It has encouraged me to spend more time outdoors. I love walking and could walk for miles, nothing beats the fresh air to make you feel good. I also love wildlife so am forever spotting birds and animals from our windows in The Gathering, it's inspired me to find out more about those that live around us.
What do you like to do in your own time?
I guess it'll come as no surprise to hear that I love gardening, given that I love the outdoors, but I also have an array of hobbies that are a little more surprising! I love to cook and bake and am always testing out my wares on my colleagues. I also enjoy wool spinning and felt making - anything crafty is a great way to unwind. I used to live on a croft and kept a range of animals like pigs, ducks, goats and even peacocks. The goats made a lot of milk so I turned my hand to making goats cheese and soap and sold them locally. Now we live in town, but I still keep chickens!
As well as visiting the distillery, what would you recommend people do in the Cairngorms?
There is just an abundance of activities in the Cairngorms for all to enjoy! My favourites include hill walking, exploring the Speyside Way and river Spey, visiting distilleries and having a wee dram or two, and I'd even encourage people to visit the other side over towards Braemar is also beautiful, where you can see Balmoral Castle and visit Braemar Chocolate Shop (our Chocolate supplier) and try out some more of their delicious chocs!
