This area offers some of the best walking in Scotland, too much to do justice to here.  

 

For serious walkers and mountaineer several of the 'big mountains' are on the doorstep, including Lochnagar, Cairngorm and Ben Macdui, giving plenty of opportunity to bag a few 'munros'.  The Lairig Ghru, which starts about 20 miles away, also offers a formidable walk.  However, please note that these areas are true mountains and wilderness and should not be attempted by the unexperienced, unequipped or unprepared.

 

For those looking for more gentle walks there is lots to offer from gentle strolls along the old Royal Deeside railway line (pushchair friendly), around Ballater golfcourse (beside the River Dee) and along many forest trails, to the more challenging circuit of Loch Muick on the Balmoral Estate.  The above shows a picture of "Burn O' Vat" a short drive then short walk east of Ballater.

 

 

 

The above pictures show some winter views in Cambus O'May Forest, approximately 3 miles east of Ballater.  This forest includes wheelchair (as well as pushchair) friendly paths. More details from:

 

The local villages of Braemar and Aboyne are also well worth a visit.