Things to do

CAIRNGORM NATIONAL PARK

StonesThrow Cottage is situated in the Cairngorm National Park which offers many outdoor pursuits. It has three ski centres nearby: The Cairngorm at Aviemore; Glenshee near Braemar; and The Lecht near Tomintoul. It also has many other activities throughout the year, including walking, mountain biking, shooting, fishing, wildlife watching and a variety of water sports.

HILLWALKING

There are many walks in and around Ballater just minutes from StonesThrow Cottage, including a lovely river walk along the River Dee around the golf course, the seven bridges walk, Craigendarroch Hill or further afield the stunning Lochnagar. The old railway line offers level walking and further walks are to be had around the area and Walk Highlands has a wealth of information and maps.

FISHING

There are many places to fish around Ballater, salmon fishing along the River Dee or catching trout in one of the many lochs nearby.

GOLF

Ballater has its own golf course which lies next to the River Dee with lovely views of Lochnagar. Further details can be found on the Ballater Golf Club website. There are also courses nearby at Banchory, Aboyne and Braemar which is the highest 18-hole course in the UK. The Royal Deeside Golf Week is held annually in May at Ballater golf club while the Royal Deeside Golf Classic is a package played in July at the four courses mentioned above.

CASTLES

Balmoral Castle and Estate are 7 miles from Ballater and there are other National Trust for Scotland castles in the surrounding area – National Trust Scotland.

HIGHLAND GAMES

A traditional combination of sport and culture, Highland Games are a fantastic day out for all the family. Events typically include hill races, tug-o-war, tossing the caber, highland dancing and pipe bands. The most famous being the Braemar Gathering attended by members of the Royal Family and held each September since 1864. Ballater has its own Highland Games held in August, while many others are held throughout the Summer in Aberdeenshire and the Cairngorm area.