Food
Days Out
Beach
Bike & Hike
Sports
Nature
Gardens
Activities
Historical
Eating & Drinking
Book a tour of the Cairngorm Brewery, which produces a full range of bottled and cask ales to suit all tastes. The ales have won various awards and accolades.
A roaring log fire, warm and friendly atmosphere, excellent food and fine selection of beers and wine make this a favourite haunt for those who enjoy the best of Highland produce.
Fun Days Out
No visit to Speyside would be complete without a trip to the Speyside Cooperage, the only cooperage in Britain with a Visitor Centre. Here you can watch coopers make and repair the barrels for the whisky industry. There's also a gift shop and tearoom.
Hear about the history of Major James Grant, his impact on whisky and sample of some of the famous Glen Grant for yourself, before taking a a stroll through the beautiful grounds to see the plunging waterfall.
Situated in the heart of Speyside and the Malt Whisky Trail, the Spey Valley Smokehouse explores the fascinating history of Scottish Salmon, not only produces the finest smoked salmon but also offers visitors the opportunity to see the process in action.
You could spend a fair amount of time exploring the Cairngorm Mountain, as there are lots of things to see and do. Take a trip on the UK's highest railway, with spectacular views of the Scottish mountain landscape, walk along the mountain footpath or stroll around the gardens. Also a must is to take a look at the stunning landscapes through the camera Obscura... a device that brings the outside in!
Battle Grounds Paintball Aberdeen is a premier gaming venue located in beautiful woodlands on the outskirts of Aberdeen. There are a choice of activities to choose from including Archery, Airsoft, Laser Tag and Paintballing each is thrilling and exciting. The facilities here are excellent well maintained and the arena designs for the games is excellent, the new Trench Warfare zone is fantastic, really realistic, the surroundings are perfect for these activities. They provide all the equipment which, again is maintained to an excellent standard. Safety is paramount here and they have an unblemished safety record, before any activity a full safety briefing is given, with clear and concise instructions. The staff throughout are great, so friendly, professional, patient and encouraging. The facilities are faultless with changing rooms, lockers, seating and catering onsite, it has everything you need for a superb day out. Battle Grounds Paintball Aberdeen are open Saturday and Sunday from 8.00am to 5.00pm, they offer a range of deals and packages so worth checking out their website for these, overall the activities are great value for money. If you are looking for an adrenalin rush and a day packed with adventure and fun then you need look no further than Battle Grounds you are assured a fantastic time and will leave wanting to return.
Cairngorm Mountain Railway offers a unique visitor gateway into this ancient glacial landscape - for all ages and abilities. The Railway takes you close to the summit for spectacular mountain landscape views.
For a unique experience, join the reindeer herder out on the mountainside where the reindeer graze in their natural environment. These quiet friendly animals are a delight to all ages. Meet these remarkable animals, learn all the interesting facts and enjoy this ?hands on? experience.
A world renowned attraction home to the Old shop museum and speciality shops. There are also culinary demonstrations and tastings, a children's adventure playground and family terrace.
Fun, discovery and adventure for all ages. One of the few places in the UK where you can rock climb, 'skydive', flume ride, meet red squirrels face to face, walk through the tops of tall pine trees and much, much more.
One of the 100 most amazing places in the UK. Superb for walking and mountain biking. Activities include fishing, quad treks, pony treks, safaris, archery, bushcraft, wildlife watching, clay shooting, photography. Estate farm shop, visitor centre, restaurant. One of the glories of wild Scotland (David Attenborough).
Explore Abernethy has a visitor centre containing exhibits explaining the history of Nethy Bridge and wildlife in the area. The centre is manned part time by a countryside ranger to provide help and advice. There are eight waymarked trails, many which go through the stunning Caledonian Pine Forest where many of the UK's rarest species are found.
Beach
The Beach at Loch Morlich - 26.2 Miles (41.9 KM)
Loch Morlich boasts the highest beach in Britain. A superb sandy beach and you can explore the loch by hiring a sailing boat, kayak or windsurfer.
Biking & Hiking
Amateur and professional mountain bikers alike will love these cycle routes. There a 3 independent sites covering 18 miles (30 km), which can be coordinated in whichever way you desire. The most athletic will love all 3 sites from Fochabers to Craigellachie.
Golf & Sports
Ballater Golf Club is in a prime location in the beautiful countryside of Upper Deeside. It is an 18 hole, par 70, blend of parkland and heathland, medium length golf course, that is slightly rolling. There are a number of natural hazards with a number of the holes being near to the Rover Dee. It is a picturesque course with stunning views. The course is beautiful and in superb condition with fast fairways and lovely greens. The course will offer challenges to all level of golfer. It is a very warm and welcoming club and they extend a true Scottish welcome to all visitors. The Clubhouse has excellent facilities, it is roomy and has a warm and inviting atmosphere and they have a diverse menu that offers a great choice of dishes that are tasty and great value for money. Ballater Golf Club offers a good round of golf with lovely scenic views for an excellent price.
Aviemore is Britain's premier winter sports resort. Experience the thrill of snow sports for yourself at Cairngorm including alpine ski-ing, snowboarding, cross country ski-ing and sledging.
The first and only daily working sled dog centre in the UK, set within spectacular panoramic views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You will be taken by dog team and guide into some of the very best scenic routes in the Cairngorms, getting close to wild red deer and other wildlife.
With an impressive 20 lifts and 36 runs, this ski centre offers a massive range of skiing & snowboarding facilities. If you are new to skiing, you can hire an instructor or join a class, but if you consider yourself a pro, then just hit the slopes and have fun!
From first timer to budding instructor, you can enjoy a wide range of activities under the guidance of a highly skilled and motivated team based in Aviemore in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park.
Nature Reserves
Cambus o'May is a stunningly beautiful natural forest that is located in the Deeside Way. It provides an escape from all the everyday hustle and bustle, the forest is so tranquil and peaceful. Every season brings its own appeal and enchantment from the wildflowers in the spring to the beautiful autumnal colours and crisp leaves in autumn. There are a choice of trails that you can follow, they are well sign posted and range in length, there is even a wheelchair accessible route. You can stroll through the Scots pine trees and silver birch whilst, watching for the native wildlife including red squirrels, dragonflies and black grouse. Admire the views of the forest from bridge that spans the lochan, it is a popular spot in the warmer months to plunge from the bridge and swim in the fresh waters, this beautiful suspension bridge is also the highlight of the walk here in Cambus o'May. Cambus o'May is an important location for ground nesting birds like capercaille, it is also home to a disused granite mine. There are plenty of opportunities to take a picnic where you can enjoy the views across Strath, Ballater and Craigendarroch. Cambus o'May is ideal for those who want to enjoy a walk in the countryside that is not too strenuous but still has stunning scenery.
Situated one mile from Nethybridge, this is the largest native Scots pinewood in Britain. Abernethy is well-known for its many rare northern insects as well as being home to breeding birds such as capercaillie, crossbill, crested tit, osprey and goldeneye.
This exposed rock face named Roches Moutonness in the village of Duldain Bridge bears signs of the sheet of glacier ice that once covered this village. This is a great point from which to view the Cairngorns National Park.
Corrie Fee - 25.1 Miles (40.2 KM)
One of 9 national nature reserves located in the Cairngorms National Park, this reserve was sculpted thousands of years ago by ice which left behind corries, cliffs, moraines and a meandering river. This breathtaking landscape is a haven for scarce arctic-alpine plants, birds and animals able to cope with the challenges of mountain life.
Established within Glenmore Forest Park, the reserve provides a haven for wildlife. You can choose to seek out some of the small but beautiful plants living on the forest floor, or just savour the fragrant carpet of needles beneath the ancient granny pines. Woodland specialists like red squirrels, crossbills and crested tits are all resident, and the forest is often alive with the sound of bird song.
Voted ?Scotland?s Best Picnic Site?, Loch an Eileen is a beautiful place, surrounded by ancient forest. Walk or cycle round the loch, enjoy views of the mysterious island castle and glimpse Highland wildlife. There are numerous other superb walking and cycling routes on the wonderful Rothiemurchus estate and the adjoining Glenmore Forest Park.
Gardens & Woodlands
Glenmore has a unique mixture of ancient pinewoods, high mountain scenery and beautiful lochs. Miles of walking paths - from gentle strolls to high mountain adventures - mountain biking, canoeing or just relaxing on Loch Morlich's beach. Award winning visitor centre and forest cafe.
The hills of Craigellachie are rich in mature birch woodland. Scenic trails throughout provide fine views across Aviemore and Strathspey to the Cairngorms. You may even spot Peregrine falcons, which regularly nest on the cliff here.
Local Attractions
The Braemar Gathering is a popular Highland Games event that always takes place on the first Saturday in September, and is hosted in The Princess Royal and Duke of Fife Memorial Park. It is an extremely popular event that has taken place for the past 900 years and are attended by members of the Royal family. It is not surprising that the event sells out quickly with tickets going on sale almost a year in advance. There are a choice of ticket options available. There are lots of different games and activities taking place including, international athletes participating in the heavy and track events, pipers and dancers, a tug of war, hill race, bagpipe competitions, childrens sack race and lots more. The Braemar Gathering is world renowned for its friendly and hospitable welcome it extends to all visitors. It is a day long event and the weather cannot be depended on so it is best to dress to cover all eventualities. The Braemar Gathering is a brilliant community event with a friendly and bustling vibe and loads of entertainment and fun, a fantastic day out for everyone.
Loch Muick Reserve forms part of the Balmoral Estate. Loch Muick is located at the base of Lochnagar, one of Scotlands best mountains. The area is stunningly beautiful and the panoramic views are amazing, it offers wonderful photo opportunities. There is a real sense of calm and tranquillity about the area it offers the perfect escape from it all. The region has a number of marked walking trails that vary in length and difficulty, you can in fact walk all the way around the loch. If you choose to walk around the loch, you will pass Queen Victoria's hunting lodge where a waterfall cascades down the hills, beautiful. It is also home for a lot of native wildlife including grouse, deer, hare and various birds. The visitor centre is very helpful, it has lots of information and the staff are most helpful and very knowledgeable. It is recommended that you wear suitable footwear and warm clothing as it can get quite blustery here. Loch Muick Reserve is simply stunning and should not be missed if you get the opportunity to visit.
Revered by connoisseurs, The Glenlivet can only be made in one particular spot, in a single glen, in the heart of Scotland's malt whisky-making country. Delve into the intriguing mysteries of distilling — and of course, sample the golden magic that is The Glenlivet.
Royal Lochnagar Distillery is positioned beside Balmoral Castle and offers the ideal opportunity to find out how Scottish Whisky is manufactured. Still made to traditional methods, with the original type of equipment you will see the process from start to finish, barley to bottle. Water is taken from the local Scarnock Springs and local barley is also used in the process. The tour guides are very good they are friendly, knowledgeable and passionate in explaining the history of the distillery as well as the process of how the whisky is made. You are given the opportunity to smell the aroma of some of the older casks which, is interesting. At the end of the tour you are rewarded with a testing session of their award-winning Royal Lochnagar 12 year old single highland malt. Unfortunately children under 8 are not allowed in the production areas of the distillery. The tour is very interesting and informative nad there are a choice of tour options, they all offer excellent value for money.
World famous working distillery still owned and managed by the Grant family. Glenfiddich is unique in the fact that it is the only Highland Single Malt that is distilled, matured and bottled at its own distillery.
Take the tour and enjoy a dram at Glenfarclas, one of the few independent distilleries left in Scotland. It has been owned by the Grant family since 1865.
With its distinctive pagodas, cobbled courtyard and picturesque buildings, Strathisla Distillery is arguably the most beautiful distillery in Scotland. Founded in 1786, it is also the oldest operating distillery in the Scottish Highlands.
Woodend Barn is a multi-arts venue located in a charming converted barn in Banchory amongst lovely surroundings. It is a lively and vibrant cultural centre in the middle of Deeside and is extremely popular within the community. It has a comprehensive programme schedule with everything from live music events to exhibitions, theatre productions and films, opera and ceilidh nights, you are spoilt for choice. The Barn being the main performing space is highly equipped with all modern technologies for the customers benefit. The gallery is located in a converted byre, and is the sole independent contemporary art gallery in Aberdeenshire, it is modern and bright and displays a varied selection of local, national and international artists. The cafe is bright and spacious whilst maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere, it is open throughout the day serving light snacks, lunches and dinner as well as a choice of beverages, the food is locally sourced, home cooked and delicious and is great value for money, service is excellent too. You also great wonderful views across the hills just outside Banchory. Relax in the Wild Garden and enjoy the delights of nature as you sit amongst the wild flowers or down by the small pond and savour the peacefulness. The venue is run by a team of staff and volunteers, who you will find to be extremely friendly and helpful. Woodend Barn is a great place to meet and socialise either with a coffee or at one of their events, it is a gorgeous venue and well worth a visit.
Go Health and Beauty are a mobile service that bring the spa to your home, workplace or wherever you choose. They offer a great choice of Alternative and beauty treatments with emphasis on Eastern and Western Holistic procedures. Each service is adapted to your personal needs and requirements and all treatments are discussed with you prior to your treatment starting. The therapist Natalia is a highly qualified and trained therapist who has many years experience and uses high quality products. The ideology is that rather than being a treat that some of these treatments form part of your regular health care. Whatever treatment you choose you will receive the best service and will feel refreshed and relaxed at the end of your treatment.
Ace Adventure are based amongst the most dramatic and stunning scenery in Scotland, they have a number of locations throughout the country. A large choice of activities are available at each location including paintballing, canyoning, bungee jumping, white water rafting, canoeing, kayaking, river tubing and cliff jumping as well as wildlife experiences. The activities offer lots of thrills and excitement and are aimed at all ages and abilities. Safety has high importance here and a full safety briefing is given before each activity as well as instructions on how to use the equipment. All equipment is provided so it is not necessary to take anything along, equipment is excellent quality and well maintained. The activities they offer are great value for money but do check the website as they often have special offers. Staff are great really friendly, professional and competent, they put you at ease are really encouraging and patient and ensure you get the most from your experience, you receive lots of helpful pointers and information along the way. The scenery is stunning and although the activities can be challenging and frightening, they are so much fun and you get a real thrill. Ace Adventure are the only place to go if you are seeking a thrilling and exciting time here in Scotland, you are in safe hands, customer service is excellent and they are really professional and well organised so you get the most from your time with them, no hesitation in recommending.
Historical & Heritage Sites
Old Royal Station is beautifully restored with lots of its original features and is a reminder of a time gone by when the railroads were the main mode of transport. The station itself has a nice selection of Victoria and Albert history, with interactive displays and some activities for the children. The waiting room is beautiful so ornate and luxurious a real reflection of the grandeur of that time. The Royal railway carriage is an exact replica of the one that would have been used by Queen Victoria and her family and gives a real insight into how royalty travelled and what it would have been like when the Queen and her entourage arrived to holiday in Balmoral. The exhibition is very well done with lifelike figures all in period clothing. The entrance fee is only nominal and represents great value for money. The station itself has a long and interesting history and this is dealt with as well at the Old Royal Station. Old Royal Station is a lovely museum that gives a true reflection of life during that period, it is both interesting and informative and will appeal to all ages.
Another of the castles visited by Mary Queen of Scots, Balvenie is a fine 13th century castle of enclosure with a curtain wall, first owned by the Comyns and added to in the 15th and 16th centuries.
This 16th century castle, family home of the McPherson-Grants, lairds of Ballindalloch since 1546, offers (self-guided) tours, an audio-visual presentation, tearoom, shop, gardens, river walks, electric trains, an observation beehive and famous Aberdeen-Angus cattle herd.
The museum contains many artefacts and archives relating to the lives of the local people over the past century and displays information about the Glenesk area. There is a tearoom and gift shop.
Banchory Museum is a compact museum but still manages to pack a lot in, it has quite an eclectic collection of items and lots to interest everyone. It is conveniently located in the centre of the town not far from the high street. The museum narrates the local history of the town through displays, photographs and artefacts, in particular it centres on the life of local resident James Scott Skinner - the Strathspey King, a musician and composer. Other displays include Deeside's royal connections, 19th century tartans, Victoriana and Deeside's natural history and archaeology, from Mesolithic through to Bronze Age. There are both permanent and temporary exhibits here so always something new to see. The Museum is open throughout the year from but on specific days in winter and summer, best to check the website for full details, there is no charge for admission. A number of events are organised during the year and again details are on the website. Volunteers run the museum, you will find them to be very friendly and helpful and also knowledgeable on the history of the local area and items on display. Banchory Museum is the ideal place to go if wanting to get the local history on Banchory, a small but interesting and informative museum and certainly worth a visit if in the area.
Located on the banks of the River Ythan, Fyvie Castle is a fascinating 13th century fort. The childhood home of Charles I, the site of one of the many battles of Robert the Bruce and a family home this impressive castle was originally built by William the Lion in 1211. See if you can spot any of the ghoulish wanderings of the resident ghost!
The steam trains run through stunning scenery between Aviemore, Boat of Garten, Broom hill (Glenbogle in TV?s Monarch of the Glen) and Grantown-on-Spey.
Pluscarden Abbey is the only medieval monastery in Britain still inhabited by Benedictine monks. It produces stained glass, apiary and other croft products and Gregorian chant is internationally known.
