Just a short drive from the hotel you can visit Balmoral castle and estate. The residence has been the Scottish home of the Royal Family since 1852 when it was purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert. In 2023 the grounds, gardens and exhibitions at Balmoral will open to the Public from Saturday 1st April until Wednesday 16th August.

Set over 268 acres of forest and woodlands, Cambus O’May is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its geological features. Exploring the area you’ll find the Cambus O’May suspension bridge. Built in 1905, the structure is part of the Cairngorms National Park Core Path Network and links many Deeside trails.

There are local walks and hikes suitable for people of all abilities. Walk around the hotel’s walled gardens and woodland – can you find the old outdoor swimming pool? From the famous Deeside Way, to a walk through Cambus O’May forest – enjoy beautiful Deeside views your way. Explore more here:

Explore Deeside’s beautiful scenery on horseback. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced rider, there are a number of centres in the area to choose from. Located between Aboyne and Ballater, Glen Tanar Equestrian Centre offers beautiful rides around the Trout Loch, through woodland and along the Water of Tanar.

Embrace Scottish and celtic culture with a trip that aligns with the famous Highland games. Witness the sound of bagpipes, kilt clad competitors and famous heavy events, such as the caber toss. Games close by include Braemar, Aboyne and Ballater. The Braemar Gathering is the largest of the three and takes place towards the end of summer each year.

Part of the Balmoral estate, Loch Muick is located a 30 minute drive away. It is home to much much flora and fauna, including the red squirrel, red deer, salmon, trout and eurasian oystercatchers. Outdoorsy folk can take an 8 mile walk around the fresh water loch. Along the way they’ll pass the famous Glas-allt Shiel house built by Queen Victoria.

A 26 minute drive away, Craigievar Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic and best preserved castles. Its pink structure and Baronial architecture is said to be the inspiration behind Disney’s Cinderella Castle and the building has remained virtually unchanged since. Completed in 1626, the castle was a family home until the 1960s.

A 9 minute drive away you’ll find the Cambus O’May railway station or Cambus O’May Halt. The station ran from 1876 to 1966 on the Deeside Railway. Originally built to serve locals, tourists and those heading to the Cambus O’May House hunting lodge, it closed to passengers in 1966. The platform and station building remain today.

Explore the local area via air with Deeside Gliding Club (a 7 minute drive away). Located in the heart of Royal Deeside, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the Cairngorm National Park, the River Dee, Balmoral Castle, Breamar, the ski slope of Glenshee and the Lecht. Introductory flight vouchers are available for newcomers.

Located close to the village of Dinnet, explore Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve. Spread over 1166 hectares the reserve is home to a vast amount of flora and fauna. While here visit the Burn O’Vat, a famous geological landmark. According to local folklore, the waterfall behind the landmark was used by Rob Roy (4 minute drive).

Indulge in a true highland experience as you explore Royal Lochnagar Distillery. Based on the Abergeldie Estate, this single malt Scotch whisky distillery is famous for producing one of Scotland’s most exclusive whiskies. Enjoy the location’s beautiful countryside views with a dram in hand.

For those visiting in the winter months, Glenshee Ski Centre is just a 40 minute drive from the hotel. From beginner to experienced skier/snowboarder, the centre is open to all levels and offers 22 lifts and 36 runs. It also makes a scenic summer spot with a summer chairlift open 6 days a week (weather permitting).

Known as the birthplace of Golf, Scotland offers a scenic backdrop for this famous sport. A 9 minute drive from the hotel, you’ll find Ballater Golf Club. Founded in 1892 it offers eighteen holes and a medium length course. Best described as heathland, the course lies within a circle of hills and several holes lie close to the River Dee.

From kart racing to quad biking, clay shooting, rifle target shooting, archery and fly fishing, Deeside Activity Park has something to keep the whole family busy. Open seven days a week, you have your choice of activities and an esteemed park restaurant that is well known for it’s local home-cooked meals.

Whether you’re a keen cyclist/mountain biker or you just want a leisurely cycle along the river via the old railway line, there are plenty of two-wheeled trails to keep you moving throughout your stay with us. You are welcome to use the hotel bikes located at the front of the property (own risk).