Ballater Hotels

Top reasons to visit Ballater

• Stunning Scenery: Ballater is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
• Historical Attractions: Visit Balmoral Castle and other notable sites that showcase Scotland's rich heritage.
• Adventure Activities: Enjoy skiing, golfing, and exploring the nearby mountains for thrilling experiences.
• Authentic Scottish Experience: Immerse yourself in the local culture and friendly atmosphere that Ballater offers.
• Diverse Accommodation: A wide range of lodging options caters to every traveller's needs, from family-friendly to pet-friendly stays.

Find great hotels in and around Ballater

Explore a delightful range of hotel accommodation options in Ballater, Scotland, perfect for every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly lodgings or family-oriented stays, the area offers a variety of hotels and lodges tailored to your adventure vacation needs. With convenient access to amenities such as accessible parking, you'll find the ideal base for your Scottish getaway, including nearby options like Aberdeenshire holiday cottages and Aboyne holiday cottages.

• Balmoral Arms: Nestled in the heart of Ballater, the Balmoral Arms is a charming 4-star hotel that offers a pet-friendly retreat for travellers seeking a homely atmosphere. With its welcoming policy for dogs, this hotel is ideal for those wishing to bring their furry companions along. Guests can enjoy amenities such as food and water bowls for their pets and a relaxing environment perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The Balmoral Arms combines comfort and convenience, making it a delightful choice for families and pet lovers alike.
• Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Scotland: This elegant 3.5-star hotel provides a luxurious spa-themed experience, making it a perfect retreat for LGBTQIA travellers and those in need of relaxation. The Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites boasts an impressive array of wellness facilities, including an indoor pool, a full-service spa offering manicures, pedicures, and steam room access. With its warm and inclusive atmosphere, this hotel ensures a serene escape where guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and enjoy a peaceful stay surrounded by stunning Scottish scenery.
• The Commercial Hotel: Situated 14.5km from Ballater, The Commercial Hotel is a 3-star property that caters to adventure enthusiasts. Offering proximity to a variety of outdoor activities, guests can partake in horse riding, fishing, waterskiing, rock climbing, and mountain biking nearby. This hotel provides an energetic base for those looking to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland through thrilling adventures. With a focus on recreation and excitement, The Commercial Hotel is an excellent choice for active travellers seeking memorable experiences.

Where to stay in and around Ballater

Ballater, nestled in the heart of Aberdeenshire, offers an authentic Scottish experience with stunning scenery and a friendly atmosphere. Adventure seekers can explore nearby areas, enjoying secluded spots and rich historical sites. Don't miss the chance to visit the ancestral seat of Balmoral Castle, where you can soak in the beautiful landscape and immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you seek budget-friendly adventures or breathtaking views, Ballater is the perfect base for your explorations.

• Braemar: Nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, Braemar is a charming village that attracts outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The village, known for its stunning scenery, offers a perfect base for skiing in the winter and hiking during the warmer months. With its peak visitor numbers in July to September, Braemar is bustling with activity, showcasing its adventure sports and golf facilities. Don't miss the opportunity to explore local landmarks such as the historic Braemar Castle, which adds a touch of culture to this picturesque destination.
• Aboyne: Located a mere 16.1km from Ballater, Aboyne is a vibrant town that is ideal for those seeking an adventurous getaway. With outdoor pursuits at its core, Aboyne boasts a range of activities from skiing to enjoying the local arcade adventure zone. The town sees peak visitor numbers in April, July, and September, making it a lively spot during these months. While you're there, be sure to visit the nearby historic sites and the stunning Aboyne Castle, which reflect the rich heritage of the area amidst the backdrop of the national park.
• Crathie: Just a stone's throw from Ballater, Crathie is a quaint village famed for its romantic atmosphere and rich cultural experiences. Visitors flock here particularly in March to April and again in July, drawn by the outdoor opportunities and the charming shopping area. Crathie is an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in Scottish culture, with nearby landmarks including the impressive Crathie Church and the expansive national park. Whether you're skiing or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, Crathie's scenic beauty is sure to captivate.

Things to do in and around Ballater

Ballater, Scotland, is perfect for those seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy skiing at nearby ski fields, indulge in a round of golf, and explore the authentic Scottish landscape. For a unique experience, consider an audio tour to uncover the area's rich history and culture. Whether you're an avid adventurer or simply wish to soak in the picturesque surroundings, Ballater offers a myriad of opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

Shopping

In Ballater, you can visit local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs, showcasing Scottish crafts and goods. If you're up for a drive, explore the nearby town of Aboyne, approximately 16.1km away, featuring a selection of boutiques and a lovely market atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience the tranquil atmosphere at Ballater Golf Club, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning scenery. Braemar Golf Club offers a similar outdoor vibe, perfect for a relaxing day on the greens. For a short drive, Aboyne Golf Club provides more golfing opportunities in a picturesque setting.

Adventure

At Glenshee Ski Centre, enjoy thrilling slopes and breathtaking views as you ski or snowboard in a lively atmosphere. The Baddoch Chairlift offers an exhilarating ride, providing access to stunning alpine terrain. Experience the excitement of Butcharts Access Poma for an adventurous ski experience amidst beautiful landscapes.

Nightlife

In Ballater, nightlife is vibrant with options like Bedlam Paintball in Edzell, just 35.4km away, offering thrilling arcade adventures. Frostys Fun House, 45.1km from Ballater, also provides an exciting arcade experience, perfect for those seeking adventure vibes after dark.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ballater

For a budget-friendly visit to Ballater, consider travelling in February, March, or November when accommodation prices are lower. Booking about a month in advance typically yields the best rates, especially on Tuesdays, while Sundays tend to be the priciest. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to filter results by budget and preferences, and check for last-minute deals. Combining hotel bookings with flights and activities can also save you money. Lastly, explore free local attractions and utilise public transport to keep your expenses down while enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Ballater are February to March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Ballater about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Ballater is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Ballater is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Ballater with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Ballater

Ballater offers a delightful blend of adventure and stunning scenery, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore a range of attractions, including castles, mountains, and lodges, each providing a unique cultural experience. Whether you’re seeking picturesque landscapes or engaging activities, Ballater's charm and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for a memorable holiday.

• Balmoral Castle: A symbol of romance and culture, Balmoral Castle is a stunning royal residence nestled within Ballater. Explore its magnificent grounds and gardens, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the British monarchy, all while enjoying the picturesque Scottish scenery.
• Lochnagar: For outdoor enthusiasts, Lochnagar offers a breathtaking adventure. This majestic mountain boasts stunning views and invigorating hiking trails, making it a perfect spot for those seeking natural beauty and exhilarating experiences in the great outdoors.
• Mar Lodge Estate: Known for its friendly atmosphere, Mar Lodge Estate is a delightful retreat for families. With its welcoming vibe and beautiful surroundings, it provides a perfect setting for relaxation and outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable visit for all ages.

Best time to go to Ballater

The best time to visit Ballater can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Ballater falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Ballater falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	33.3°F (0.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	34.3°F (1.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	37.2°F (2.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	38.7°F (3.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	34.3°F (1.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Ballater

When planning your trip to Ballater, Scotland, you can fly into three major airports. Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) is situated 53.1km away, with nearby luxurious options like the 5-star Marcliffe Hotel, 9.7km from the airport, offering convenient access. Inverness Airport (INV), located 82.1km away, boasts hotels such as the 5-star Rocpool Reserve, 12.9km from the airport, providing various shuttle services. Dundee Airport (DND) is 66.0km distant, with The Hideaway Experience, a 5-star lodge just 8.0km away, offering limited airport transport. Each airport provides a range of accommodations for a comfortable stay while visiting Ballater.