Experience the enchanting beauty of Scotland's inland landscapes on a captivating day trip from Aberdeen. Join us as we explore the renowned Balmoral Castle and delve into the splendors of Royal Deeside.
Description
We'll meet at the designated time at the William Wallace statue in Aberdeen, and embark on an adventure through Royal Deeside and Balmoral Castle.
Our journey begins with a scenic drive to Balmoral Castle, the cherished fortress of the British royal family. En route, we'll admire the rugged landscape of hills and mountains along the River Dee. Capture stunning photos before arriving at the castle, where we'll step back in time to the mid-nineteenth century when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert acquired Balmoral.
Explore the royal residence at your own pace, taking in the charm of the Balmoral gardens, the grand ballroom, and the breathtaking Aberdeenshire views. It's no wonder that Balmoral was a beloved retreat of the late Queen Elizabeth II!
Leaving Balmoral Castle behind, we'll traverse the remarkable Cairngorm National Park, an iconic Scottish landmark. Pause at the Gairnshields Bridge, a picturesque viaduct dating back to 1751 that spans the Gairn River. Marvel at the beauty of the Caigngorm Hills before visiting the Victorian village of Ballater in the heart of Royal Deeside.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through this picturesque Scottish town and savor a delightful lunch at one of its charming cafes. After eating, we'll continue our journey, passing by the Cambus O'May Bridge. Our next stop will be at the ancient stone circle of Tomnavarie, a fascinating funerary monument with over 4500 years of history.
To conclude our exploration of Royal Deeside, we'll make our way to The Queen's View in the village of Tarland. Discover the enchanting vista that captivated Queen Victoria during her first visit, and experience the same awe-inspiring sensation.
Finally, we'll return to the starting point in Aberdeen, concluding our tour after a total of seven and a half hours of sightseeing.
Balmoral Castle opening dates
Please keep in mind that Balmoral Castle closes in summer to welcome the royal family. If you book the tour during these months, we'll instead visit Braemar Castle, a fortress that was the residence of the Farquharson clan.
