Welcome to Royal Deeside & the Cairngorms :
Scotland’s Crowning Glory

Welcome to the Official Visitor Information site for Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms including Ballater, Braemar, Donside, Banchory, Aboyne and the Balmoral area.

• The Olympic Torch travels through Royal Deeside on June 11. Visit our News Page for full details and a map.
  
  
• Events in 2012 are listed here. Events information is often updated - please check for additions or contact us to add your email address to our What's On newsletter.

Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms is Scotland's crowning glory. Visit Ballater, Braemar, Strathdon, Banchory and step inside one of Scotland’s most enchanting landscapes. Explore the timeless beauty of this refreshingly different destination. Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms attracts travellers from far across the world and all are lured back by the scenery - ideal for walking, cycling and other outdoor pursuits.

The Royal Deeside area is nestled between the Cairngorms National Park and Aberdeen, Scotland’s third largest city, this regal landscape rests in the magnificent valley of the River Dee. Rising high into the rugged Cairngorm Mountains, the river flows 85 miles through some of Scotland’s finest backdrops.

Follow royal footsteps on the Victorian Heritage Trail in Royal Deeside which will take you through towns, landmarks, beauty spots and attractions with a special connection to Queen Victoria. Balmoral Castle, summer home of the Royal Family, rests in the shadows of Lochnagar, known locally as the jewel of all mountains.

Banchory, Aboyne, Strathdon, Ballater and Braemar all offer superb accommodation and outdoor activities, including hill walking, fishing, mountain biking, skiing and running and traditional Highland Games and festivals.

Royal Deeside is home to many rare wildlife and plant species – exploring the nooks and crannies of the varied landscape will uncover capercaillie, red squirrels, roe deer and golden eagles. It is the perfect place to visit, whether it's for a short break or a longer holiday.  See the sights for yourself!

This website has been assisted in its design with assistance from VisitScotland Growth Fund.