A name synonymous with the majesty of Royal Deeside, Ballater is also located at the eastern gateway to Cairngorms National Park, making it one of the region’s top visitor spots.

Arguably one of Scotland’s most famous castles is found nearby. Balmoral Castle, the summer residence of the Royal Family, was described by Queen Victoria as “my dear paradise in the Highlands”. Neighbouring the imposing castle is the award-winning Royal Lochnagar Distillery producing some of Scotland’s most exclusive ‘drams’.

The picturesque Victorian village is a popular destination in itself with cosy B&B’s, restaurants and great links to outdoor adventure. There are legends to be scaled including Lochnagar – in part made famous by Prince Charles’ book ‘The Old Man of Lochnagar’.

You can view stunning works of art at the Ballater Gallery, offering art by Scottish creators.

Golf can be played in the brisk air of the 18-hole Ballater Golf Club. There are some beautiful scenic spots including nearby Muir of Dinnet and the wholly natural Burn o’ Vat – an impressive and beautiful cave formed during the Ice Age.

Discover the historical Balmoral Cairns erected by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert to celebrate the marriages of their children and other key events for the royal family. There are 11 Cairns to discover, the most famous of which is the Prince Albert Cairn which looks out to panoramic vistas of stunning and majestic landscape.