Ballater is a picturesque village in which to take a self-catering holiday and is located in a part of Aberdeenshire known as Royal Deeside.  Located within the West side of the Cairngorms National Park, Ballater could be a good base for your cottage holiday in the Cairngorms.  Ballater is just 8 miles from Royal Balmoral Castle, 16 miles from Braemar and 42 miles from Aberdeen.  Surrounded by beautiful countryside and near the awe inspiring Grampian Mountains, Ballater is a pleasant little village for a cottage break.

Ideally suited to those who are looking for an active self-catering holiday, there are plentiful walks, hiking and mountaineering opportunities in the Cairngorms National Park.  Keen wildlife watcher may also enjoy a visit to this area where you may be able to spot stags, wild cats and various interesting birdlife.  This part of Scotland may also strike a chord with those who are looking to enjoy a peaceful break in a reasonably remote part of Scotland.