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The From Aberdeen: Balmoral Estate & Royal Deeside Tour offers a captivating journey into the heart of Aberdeenshire’s scenic countryside and royal history. Priced at $114 per person, this 7.5-hour small-group tour departs from Aberdeen, with a maximum of 7 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide and features highlights such as Balmoral Castle, the Victorian village of Ballater, and iconic viewpoints like Queen’s View.
While the Balmoral Castle visit is a key draw, note that from August 12th to October 1st, 2024, the estate is closed, and the tour substitutes a visit to Crathes Castle. This tour appeals most to those interested in royal estates, Scottish scenery, and history, offering a well-paced day with diverse stops and scenic views. The experience includes transportation, a guide, and visits to several local sites, though food and entry tickets are not included.
Key Points
- Personalized small-group experience limited to 7 participants ensures attentive service.
- Includes transportation from Aberdeen to scenic and historic sites in Aberdeenshire.
- Highlights Balmoral Castle & Estate, with audio guides available (pre-booked tickets include this free).
- Several stops include Ballater village, Queen’s View, Cambus O’ May suspension bridge, and Tomnaverie Stone Circle.
- Tour operates rain or shine, so packing waterproof clothing is recommended.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and involves walking on uneven paths.
Pick-Up and Drop-Off at William Wallace Statue
The tour begins at the William Wallace Statue next to Union Terrace Gardens on Rosemount Viaduct. This central meeting point makes it easy to access from Aberdeen city. The return to the same location marks the end of the day, providing a convenient finish for those staying in Aberdeen.
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What Makes Balmoral Castle a Royal Favourite
Balmoral Castle has been a private family home for the Royal family since 1850, when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert established it as their retreat. The estate features stunning views of hills and mountains, fields of heather, and the river Dee flowing through it. Queen Elizabeth valued Balmoral as her personal country retreat, and King Charles III is known to walk the grounds. Visitors are encouraged to listen to an audio tour that shares stories about the estate, with Balmoral entry tickets including this guide at no extra cost.
The Ballroom, the only room open to visitors inside the castle, contains objects that belong to the Royal Family, adding a personal touch to the visit. However, during the estate’s closure period, the tour instead visits Crathes Castle, operated by the National Trust for Scotland, until Balmoral reopens in October 2024.
Exploring Royal Deeside’s Charming Villages
The Victorian village of Ballater serves as a picturesque base for a one-hour break. Known for historic specialty shops, restaurants, and cafés, it’s a favorite for a relaxing stroll. The Victorian Railway Station and the tourist information centre offer insights into the village’s heritage. Visitors often enjoy local food and drink here, making it ideal for a leisurely lunch.
Outside the village, the Tomnavarie Stone Circle is a significant archaeological site, featuring a recumbent stone circle dating back about 4,500 years. This monument surrounds a burial cairn, and its purpose remains a subject of curiosity, with several theories explored during the visit.
Scenic Stops: Queen’s View and Cambus O’ May Suspension Bridge
A highlight of the tour is the Queen’s View, located just outside Tarland. Named after Queen Victoria, who admired its sweeping vistas, this spot offers a breathtaking overlook of the valley below, with views of Lochnagar in the distance. The 15-minute photo stop allows plenty of time to appreciate the scenery and capture memorable shots.
Next, the Cambus O’ May suspension bridge spans the River Dee and dates back to 1905. This 50-meter-long footbridge was built as part of Alexander Gordon’s estate. Visitors can walk across to access woodland paths leading to Torphantrick Wood and the Muir of Dinnet nature reserve, popular for wild swimming and woodland walks.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Itinerary and Major Stops
The day features a series of stops designed to combine scenic beauty and cultural insight:
– Starting point at the William Wallace Statue.
– Van transfer lasting approximately 1.5 hours to key sites.
– Ballater provides an hour-long break for exploration and lunch.
– Photo stop at Queen’s View for 15 minutes.
– Another van segment for about 1 hour to visit additional landmarks.
– The tour concludes back at the William Wallace Statue.
This itinerary balances sightseeing, photo opportunities, and free time effectively, with plenty of space for questions and enjoying the surroundings.
Transport and Group Size
Transport is via a comfortable van suitable for the scenic roads of Aberdeenshire. The tour’s small-group format, limited to 7 guests, allows for a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention from the guide. The guide leads everyone through the stops, sharing stories and answering questions along the way.
Accessibility and Practical Tips
As the tour involves some walking on uneven paths and additional steps at certain stops, it is not suitable for wheelchair users. Travelers should bring comfortable shoes and rain gear, as the tour operates in all weather conditions. Packing an umbrella or waterproof clothing ensures comfort during outdoor sightseeing, especially at locations like Queen’s View and the suspension bridge.
Guides and Guest Experience
The tour features guides recognized for their knowledge and friendliness. Jacqueline and Jamie are among the guide names praised in reviews, with travelers appreciating their flexibility, storytelling skills, and ability to answer questions. The guides’ enthusiasm and local insights enhance the overall experience, turning a scenic drive into a lively, informative day.
Value and Booking Options
The price of $114 per person covers roundtrip transportation from Aberdeen, the services of a live English-speaking guide, and visits to key landmarks. Entry tickets to Balmoral Castle are not included, but the audio tour is free with pre-booked tickets, adding value. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for planning.
Final Thoughts on the Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour
This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic views, cultural sites, and royal history, all delivered in a small-group setting. The stunning landscapes of the Cairngorms and the significance of Balmoral make it appealing to visitors wanting an authentic taste of Aberdeenshire.
While the Balmoral Castle stop is the highlight, the inclusion of villages, scenic viewpoints, and archaeological sites ensures a well-rounded experience. The expert guides, comfortable transport, and careful pacing make this tour particularly suited to those with an interest in Scottish heritage and natural beauty.
The only notable limitation is the period when Balmoral is closed, during which the estate is replaced by Crathes Castle. Besides that, the high praise in reviews reflects consistent satisfaction, especially for guides’ storytelling and knowledge.
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From Aberdeen: Balmoral Estate & Royal Deeside Tour
“The grounds at Balmoral were beautiful. Loved the information the guide provided.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Aberdeen is included.
Are entry tickets to Balmoral Castle included?
No, entry tickets are not included, but pre-booked tickets come with a free audio tour.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours.
What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include William Wallace Statue, Ballater, Queen’s View, Cambus O’ May suspension bridge, Tomnaverie Stone Circle, and scenic drives.
Is this tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired guests?
It is not suitable for wheelchair users, and involves walking on uneven paths.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and rain gear to stay dry in all weather.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Who are the typical guides?
Guides like Jacqueline, Jamie, and Alex are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling.
What makes this tour special?
The combination of royal heritage, scenic views, and small-group experience sets this tour apart.
Is the tour flexible with weather?
Yes, it operates rain or shine, so be prepared for outdoor conditions regardless of the weather.
This From Aberdeen: Balmoral Estate & Royal Deeside Tour offers a genuine look into Scotland’s scenic beauty and royal connections, delivering a well-organized, engaging day out with trusted guides and memorable sites.
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