Morning in Ballater

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Start your day with breakfast at The Bothy, a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Their freshly prepared dishes made with local ingredients are the perfect way to fuel up.

After breakfast, take some time to explore Ballater. Be sure to visit Ballater Antiques, where you’ll find a lovely selection of unique items. Next, head over to The Old Royal Station, an iconic landmark in the village. Built in 1866 to serve Queen Victoria and the Royal Family, it has been beautifully restored after a fire in 2015. Inside, you’ll find The Rothesay Rooms, now located in the station, featuring both a café and restaurant. Take a moment to explore the exhibits, including the timeline of the station’s history and the replica royal train carriage.

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After the distillery tour, take a short detour to Tarmachan Café. This hidden gem is ideal for a quick coffee or a light snack. Known for its excellent bakes and warm atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to relax for a bit before continuing on with your day.

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From Ballater, take a short drive to Balmoral Cairns, a collection of stone pyramids scattered across the Balmoral Estate. Built to commemorate significant events in the Royal Family, these cairns are a peaceful and interesting walk through the forest. The Prince Albert Cairn, the largest and most striking of them, offers stunning views across the estate and beyond. The walk is moderate, so comfortable footwear is a must.

Royal Lochnagar Distillery

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Traditions die hard at Royal Lochnagar, which sits at the foot of the Cairngorms within a whisky-fuelled stroll of Balmoral. In situ since the mid-1800s, the distillery is known to have been a hit with Prince Albert, and a tour lets you see the age-old methods still being used to produce its single malts.   Located on the Abergeldie Estate in the east of Cairngorms National Park, Royal Lochnagar Distillery produces one of Scotland’s most exclusive whiskies. Built in 1826 by James Robertson, Lochnagar burnt down in suspicious circumstances in 1841, in what was believed to have been arson at the hands of Robertson’s illicit competitors. But the distillery was rebuilt four years later by John Begg and named ‘New Lochnagar. Situated just a mile from historic Balmoral Castle, the distillery enjoyed a visit from Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, at the invitation of Begg, in 1848 and was awarded a Royal Warrant, enabling the name change to Royal Lochnagar. Today, it produces a single malt whisky and is also used in high-end blended whiskies, such as Johnnie Walker Blue Label.

Braemar

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 Continue west to Braemar, a picturesque village steeped in history. Stop for a late lunch or afternoon tea at The Fife Arms, which combines local flavors with a unique setting that celebrates the region’s heritage.

Ballater

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Round off your day with dinner back in Ballater. For a hearty Scottish meal, Clachan Grill is an excellent choice, offering locally sourced dishes full of flavor. Another great option is the Balmoral Arms, where you can enjoy a delicious meal in a welcoming setting.

After dinner, the Balmoral Arms is also a fantastic spot to relax with a drink. Their selection of beers and whiskies is impressive, making it an ideal place to unwind and toast to a memorable day in Royal Deeside.

End your evening with a peaceful stroll through the village, soaking up its calm and welcoming atmosphere.