Howe of Torbeg

Being situated in both the Cairngorms National Park and on Royal Deeside you won't be short of things to do, whatever you like doing!

Royal Deeside is a walker's paradise, for both leisurely strolls and all out hikes. The area around Howe of Torbeg is criss crossed with networks of paths to explore on foot by simply walking out from your pod. Around Howe of Torbeg, Glenlivet, Muir of Dinnet and Invercauld Estates all have well maintained hikes and trails.

This site is also perfectly positioned for those looking to tackle Munros such as the stunning Lochnagar, and nearby Corbetts Morven and Brown Cow Hill. Loch Muick, Loch Kinord, Linn O'Dee and the Deeside Way are some of the easy-to-access fave walks and way-marked trails.

There is a wealth of road and mountain biking in the area. The Lecht runs two mountain bike trails in the summer months and there is a massive network of tracks and paths. You'll find fabulous self guided routes on natural trails, such as going through nearby Ballochbuie Forest to Loch Muick (single and double track).

There is plenty of family friendly biking too - Ballater is surrounded by circular routes typically lasting between one and 4 hours. The Deeside Way, starting in Ballater, provides an enjoyable off road cycle track along an old railway line, with tearooms and views of the River Dee en-route. There are two bike shops in Ballater who hire bikes and kit, organise family bike tours, service bikes and can advise on trails. Qualified mountain bike guides can be advance booked during the summer season and a shuttle service can be arranged for accessing some locations if required.

You'll also be ideally situated to access two of Scotland's ski resorts, The Lecht and Glenshee. Both are approximately half an hour's drive away and both run ski schools and hire equipment.

Apart from the great outdoors, Royal Deeside offers the full Scottish Highland experience, with castles and distilleries aplenty, including Craigievar Castle, Braemar Castle, and of course Balmoral - which is open to the public from April - July each year. Royal Lochnagar Distillery is close by. Fettercairn Distillery (one of Scotland's oldest), Tomintoul and Glenlivet are all short scenic drives away.

Great family days out include Deeside Activity Park, Go Ape at Crathes Castle, and Belwade Horse Sanctuary.

Ballater Highland Games take place on the second Thursday in August each year. Ballater Victoria Week takes place throughout the second week in August with all kinds of events, including a duck race and a soapbox derby, taking place in the village.