Discover Ballater
The village of Ballater is well placed for delicious Scottish hospitality and a multitude of outdoor activities and opportunities to explore around Ballater itself, through Royal Deeside and farther afield.
Shopping
Ballater has a diverse selection of speciality shops, ranging from boutiques, gift shops and art galleries to outdoor clothing specialists.
Eating out
There is a great selection of cafes, restaurants and bars serving traditional Scottish cuisine, Italian, Indian and take-away meals in the area.
Our favourites include The Bothy cafe, Tarmachan cafe, Balmoral Bar, Fish Shop Ballater and The Fife Arms in Braemar.
Castles
Balmoral Castle is just 7 miles from Ballater. Braemar Castle and Craigievar Castle are within 20 miles, with many more castles to explore across the region.
Visit the National Trust for Scotland website for more details of their properties in the area.
Activities
Golf
Ballater has its own golf club located in the village, others nearby include Banchory, Aboyne and Braemar.
Royal Deeside Golf Week is usually held in May at Ballater Golf Club and in July the Royal Deeside Golf Classic is held across all four local clubs.
Hill walking
There are many walking routes around the village of Ballater, upto Lochnagar and throughout the wider Cairngorms National Park area.
Visit the Walk Highlands website which has information and maps on all levels of walking in the area.
Cycling
Gravel, mountain and road cycling is very popular in the local area, with a great selection of trails and routes to choose from, taking in stunning scenery en route.
Ballater has two cycle rental shops that will help you organise your adventure.
Fishing
Fly fishing for Salmon is a popular sporting activity along the River Dee, trout fishing is also available at many lochs in the area.
Visit the Fish the Dee website for more information.
Highland Games
It's a great day out for all the family, where you can experience hill races, tug-o-war, pipe bands and highland dancing. Ballater Highland Games is in August each year.
The Braemar Gathering is attended by members of the Royal Family.