Ballater & Locality

Our Highland hotel is five minutes from the centre of picturesque Ballater in Royal Deeside - renowned for its splendid scenery.  Set in an acre of grounds, our gardens lead to walks through woodlands and alongside the River Dee. The front bedrooms enjoy views of Craigendarroch, the Hill of Oaks, from the summit of which there are wonderful views across the valleys to Lochnagar (1155m) and Mount Keen (939m).

Ballater is on the Victorian Heritage trail which covers Balmoral Castle (just 8 miles away), Royal Lochnagar (our local distillery) and Braemar, home of the Highland Games and the Gathering of the Clans.  We are also close to the malt Whisky trail, covering famous distilleries including The Glenlivet and The Macallan.

We are part of the Cairngorms National Park which is Britain’s newest and biggest national park covering 3,800 sq km and incorporating 46 Munroes, including Ben Mac dui, Britain's second highest mountain. Ski-ing is available at Glenshee and Lecht both of which are 30 minutes drive away.

Sports - Golfers can enjoy the fine 18-hole course at Ballater or, for variety, explore local courses at Aboyne, Braemar and Banchory.

Tennis, bowls and putting are also available in Ballater.

The Deeside Activity Park and The Glen Tanar Estate offer a host of activities.

For walkers there is a range of valley and hill walking on the doorstep, ranging from gentle, hour long strolls to more strenuous uphill hikes. Drying facilities are available at the Hotel and packed lunches can be provided.