Ballater

The town of Ballater in Aberdeenshire, Scotland lies on the River Dee, with outstanding views of the stunning landscape and nearby magnificent Cairngorm Mountains. Ballater’s outstanding location draws visitors throughout the year, many of whom come for the waters. The spring water here is thought to be therapeutic and is said to have been a cure for a disease known as ‘scrofula’. It was towards the end of the 18^th century that the settlement here began to develop as a spa resort to accommodate visitors to the Pananich Mineral Well. With the arrival of the railways in the 19^th century, Ballater and its waters became a popular destination. This time of prosperity means that many buildings in town date from the Victorian era. The well preserved centre of the village is now a protected conservation area.

Ballater offers ample amenities as well a vast choice of visitor attractions, historic sites and opportunities to enjoy outdoor pursuits within the area. Balmoral Castle, the British Royal Family's holiday home, is nearby and plays an important role in the community. The Royal family has visited the town on many occasions since the time of Queen Victoria. The old Ballater railway station is no longer in operation and is now home to a fascinating visitor centre within Queen Victoria's waiting room, with a replica royal carriage. An excellent time to visit Ballater is during the annual ‘Victoria Week’, held in August as a celebration of Ballater's connection with Queen Victoria and Balmoral Castle. Another popular attraction in the area is the vast Cairngorms National Park. The park covers the Cairngorms range of mountains and surrounding hills and was once the largest national park in the British Isles.