Ballater is the attractive village that puts the "Royal" into Royal Deeside. It achieved lasting fame as the nearest settlement to, and railhead for, Balmoral Castle, which lies eight miles along the River Dee to the west.

Ballater is an ideal location for many activities including walking, cycling, hiking, canoeing, skiing and pony trekking.

Balmoral Castle and Estate A favourite home to successive generations of the Royal Family. Grounds and Exhibitions open 1 March through 1 August 2006. The Estates Office, Balmoral, Ballater,