Royal Deeside Venison Festival - Indulge in top of the range game this Autumn

Following the stunning succes of the first Venison Festival last Autumn, adventurous foodies are again in for the ultimate gastro treat thanks to the Royal Deeside Larder Venison Festival taking place in October 2011! This unique five-day celebration of venison will take place from 25th to 30th October 2011 at various locations across Royal Deeside. Organised by the Royal Deeside and The Cairngorms Destination Management Organisation (DMO), the festival offers the perfect opportunity for first timers to sample venison and allows connoisseurs of top of the range game to indulge in different ways.

The final programme is still being confirmed . Please check this website regularly for further updates and information. Download the Venison Festival 2011 Poster here.

Around 20 hotels, restaurants, local food producers and country estates in the area have joined together to create a mouth watering programme of venison themed activities. A feast of venison inspired menus will be offered at eateries that scatter the towns and villages, such as the quaint Finzean Farm Shop and Tea Room on the Finzean Estate and the atmospheric Kildrummy Inn on Donside. Award-winning restaurants will feature game dishes on their specials boards, including the 3AA Rosette Green Inn at Ballater. From smoked venison sandwiches, broths and burgers to venison haggis and even venison vindaloo, there will be a mix of traditional and modern venison dishes to suit every palate.

Amateur cooks will discover top tips on how to cook venison to perfection at one of a series of cookery demonstrations with lunches. Top chefs will share their words of culinary wisdom about the delicate flavour and fine texture of venison with their diners – who will then tuck into a tasty lunch using the very best venison the region has to offer.

But the Venison Festival isn’t just about eating – there are a number of wildlife safaris being organised by the Braemar Highland Safaris, Glen Tanar, Finzean and Balmoral estates which promise visitors insight into land management. These wildlife safaris include ranger talks and trips onto the estates with hearty breakfasts and lunches to keep visitors going while on the move.

For some Venison Festival recipes inspired by last year's festival please click here www.discoverroyaldeeside.com/Larder/recipes/

Need accommodation? - Where to stay in Royal Deeside and Donside

The 2010 Vension Festival  was supported by: