The Central Highlands in the heart of Scotland are characterized by the majestic mountains of the Grampian Mountains. Britain's largest contiguous mountain range stretches from Loch Lomond up to Inverness. In the northern part of the Grampian Mountains, between Aviemore and Braemar, lies the island's newest national park, the Cairngorm National Park. There are no roads leading into the national park, only around it, which keeps this ruggedly beautiful area reserved for non-motorized visitors. It is a paradise for nature-loving hikers who wish to spend a night under the stars by the picturesque mountain lake Loch Avon, in order to climb Scotland's second-highest peak, Ben MacDui, the next day. The almost deserted barren valleys in the Cairngorms contrast with the almost idyllic area of the Trossachs to the south of the Central Highlands.