Take a walk in Royal Deeside
Royal Deeside is home to some of the finest scenery in Scotland, with the River Dee running through some stunning countryside all set against the backdrop of the mighty Cairngorm Mountains. This area is where you'll find Balmoral Castle, the summer home of the Royal Family - hence Royal Deeside.
Before beginning this walk, it's worth taking some time to explore Ballater and the Old Royal Station there. The pretty (former royal) wooden railway station is packed with local visitor information, houses a Royalty and Railways exhibition, which re-creates the grandeur and ceremony of the bygone steam age. There's also shops within the building an excellent restaurant to stop for refreshments.
The Deeside Railway Walk offers wonderful views of the River Dee, where you can find perfect picnic spot locations. Continue on to Cambus O'May and look out for the elegant white suspension bridge across the river. You'll also see the picturesque Cutaway Cottage, with its white picket fence and manicured garden. From here, there's a fine view of the wide sweeping river with heathery hills beyond.
When you cross the suspension bridge the path leads through the Muir of Dinnet woodlands, which follows on to become a straight sandy track crossing the Muir of Dinnet.
Either return to Ballater by the same route, enjoying different views towards the hills of upper Deeside, or perhaps relax with a drink and something to eat at the Loch Kinord Hotel in Dinnet for a while before catching the bus back to Ballater.
Discover the Fife Coastal Path
The Fife Coastal Path stretches for 150km from Culross to the Tay Bridge, by Dundee, weaving through pretty villages and past historic buildings dating back to the 12th century. A shorter route covers three sections of the path, uncovering fascinating history along the way.
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A unique experience
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Make chartering the easy and fun option…
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Discover Mackintosh
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