Deeside Attractions

Cornellan Cottage

Local Attractions - web links+

Ballater is within easy reach of other villages well worth a visit. In the Dee valley Braemar is a short distance to the west, with Aboyne, Kincardine O'Neil and Banchory to the east. For the more adventurous head north to the Lecht and Tomintoul - the scenery is amazing.

Walking

Our favourite walk/amble starts at Cornellan Cottage, following the side of the River Dee all the way round Ballater golf-course and back through the village. The duration is flexible, as we usually stop off for afternoon tea and scones at the Station Restaurant then pop into the Delicatessen and Butcher on our way home! (a gentle afternoon's activity.)

Another great walk that starts from Cornellan cottage is through the village and along the old railway line. This takes you (past a coffee shop) to the impressive Cambus o'may Bridge. In good weather this is a popular spot for paddling! For something close but a little more taxing try:

http://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/cairngorms/seven-bridges.shtml

http://www.forestry.gov.uk

Ballater-Royal Deeside Walking Festival 2008: 17 - 23 May 2008
Website: http://www.royal-deeside.org.uk/RDnews/walkweek.htm

http://www.royal-deeside.org.uk/RDactive/ballaterwalks.htm

http://www.walkdeeside.com

Fishing

http://www.fishdee.co.uk

The above picture shows the River Dee, 2 mintues walk from Cornellan Cottage (popular for paddling as well as fishing!).

Horse Riding/Glen Tanar

Try the Glen Tanar Equestrian Centre between Ballater and nearby Aboyne. Glen Tanar is a beautiful 25,000 acre estate with great wildlife and scenery (see picture below). A one hour ride can take you round the trout loch, into the ancient wood of Caledon and, along the banks and through the Water of Tanar. Longer rides and tuition are usually available. Book on 013398 86448. For those not in the saddle Glen Tanar is also a great place for walking, paddling or mountain biking.

Cycling

http://www.cyclehighlands.com

www.forestry.gov.uk/aberdeenwoods

www.forestry.gov.uk/blackhallforest

www.forestry.gov.uk/fetteressoforest

www.forestry.gov.uk/thedurrisforest

Swimming

"Dip and Dine" deals usually available at the local Hilton hotel:

http://www.hilton.co.uk/craigendarroch

Aboyne Swimming Pool

http://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/recreation/swimleisure/aboyne.asp

Castles

www.balmoralcastle.com

Balmoral Estate has its own Ranger service that organises guided walks and public events (Red Deer Rambles, Birds before breakfast, Butterfly Bonanza;s etc.!) Contact Glen Muick visitor centre for details on 013397 55059.

For details of special events at National Trust properties please visit:

www.nts.org.uk

Land Rover Tours

These can often be arranged through the Balmoral Estates Office. Contact 013397 42534 for details.

Whisky/Distillery Tours

http://www.discovering-distilleries.com

www.malts.com

Royal Lochnagar Distillery, Crathie, Ballater: 01339 742700

Skiing

http://www.ski-glenshee.co.uk

http://www.lecht.co.uk

http://www.nevisrange.co.uk

www.aviemoreskischool.co.uk

Golf

www.ballatergolfclub.co.uk

Quad Biking, Archery, Off Road Driving, Kart acing,, Clay Shooting, Mountain Biking etc. Restaurant and Farm Shop. (By Dess, Aboyne)

www.deesideactivitypark.com

"Deeside Railway" (Banchory)

www.deeside-railway.co.uk

Grampian Transport Museum

(Alford, AB33 8AE) www.gtm.org.uk

Theatre (Aberdeen)

www.boxofficeaberdeen.com

Music (Aberdeen)

www.musichallaberdeen.com

Art

www.larksgallery.com
www.mcewansgallery.com
www.lostgallery.co.uk
www.butterworthpaintings.co.uk

Gliding

www.deesideglidingclub.co.uk

Fine Dining/Chocolate!

The Green Inn, 9 Victoria Road, Ballater: (013397) 55701

http://www.chocolategallery.co.uk

The Braemar Gathering (always the first Saturday in September)

Tickets can be purchased in advance from:

The Secretary,Society Office,Braemar, AB35 5YU
Tel: 013397 41098

http://www.braemargathering.org

Spa

www.thelodgeontheloch.com

(Health & beauty spa, 9 hole golf centre, Driving Range, Lochside Putting Green, Aboyne)

Storybook Glen

www.storybookglenaberdeen.co.uk

20 acres of woodlands, seek out your favouite nursery favourites, visit Old MacDonald's Farm and pets corner. Restaurant & Garden Centre. 5 miles west of Aberdeen

Please visit again soon - as we aim to be adding to this list regularly.

If you think we have missed your favourite out please let us know what it is!

Ballater Holiday Cottage

in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park