InfoSummary of reviewsThe Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Scotland is a luxurious and indulgent hotel set in a beautiful location, perfect for exploring nearby towns and attractions. While the breakfast options were deemed basic and lacking in variety, the dinner options were a mixed bag with some guests enjoying delicious meals while others were disappointed with the limited menu and poor food quality. The rooms were spacious, modern and beautifully decorated with exceptional cleanliness and attention to detail. The staff were fantastic, helpful, friendly and knowledgeable, providing exceptional customer service. The leisure complex, including the pool and jacuzzi, was a highlight for many guests, although spa treatments need to be booked in advance. The hotel is family-friendly with plenty of activities for children and offers an indulgent and luxurious stay for all guests. Show more
InfoSummary of reviewsThe Auld Kirk, nestled in the charming town of Ballater, offers an exceptional stay characterized by its fantastic location, beautiful architecture and unique ambiance. This delightful B&B is perfectly positioned for guests to explore local amenities, pubs, restaurants and shops with Balmoral Castle and the Cairngorms National Park also within easy reach.
Guests highly praise the spotlessly clean and comfortable rooms, tastefully decorated with Scottish touches that reflect the building's historic charm. The beds are described as super comfy, providing a restful night's sleep in a quiet setting. The high-spec amenities, newly refurbished bathrooms and homely features like homemade shortbread and local whiskey add a warm, welcoming feel.
The breakfast experience at The Auld Kirk stands out as a highlight. The extensive and varied breakfast options, which include freshly baked scones, muffins, croissants and a full Scottish cooked breakfast, are consistently described as delicious and abundant. Homemade elements and the exceptional quality and presentation of the meals contribute to a satisfying dining experience. Guests appreciate the attentive and friendly service provided by the hosts, Helen and Kevin, further enhancing the breakfast enjoyment.
The hospitality at The Auld Kirk is frequently commended, led by the welcoming and informative hosts. Their friendliness and helpfulness create a memorable and pleasant stay with personalized service and detailed recommendations for local dining and activities. The establishment's unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort, along with its meticulous cleanliness, ensures a top-notch accommodation experience.
The Auld Kirk combines the charm of an old church with the comforts of a stylish boutique hotel. The beautifully restored building retains many original features, creating a distinctive and character-filled atmosphere. Thoughtful details and imaginative furnishings add to the cozy ambiance, making guests feel special and leaving them with lasting impressions.
Overall, The Auld Kirk delivers a luxurious and memorable stay with exceptional service, high-quality amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. With its excellent location, personal touches and standout breakfast, it has become a highly recommended choice for travelers seeking both comfort and character in the picturesque setting of Ballater. Show more
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InfoSummary of reviewsNo 45 in Ballater is an extraordinary bed and breakfast nestled in the stunning Highlands of Scotland. Visitors are continuously impressed by its remarkable location, ideal for exploring nearby attractions such as Balmoral Castle and the Royal Lochnagar Distillery while enjoying the tranquility of its serene surroundings. Guests find themselves charmed by the short stroll to Ballater village, where delightful restaurants and cafes await. The property's peaceful atmosphere is complemented by the attentive hospitality of the hosts, Les and Alison, who are celebrated for ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay.
Breakfast at No 45 is a highlight, consistently leaving guests with fond memories of its quality and variety. Locally sourced ingredients, including products from village artisans, enhance the culinary offerings, which feature homemade scones, jams, and a diverse à la carte option. Guests particularly enjoy the beautifully cooked pancakes and dining in the conservatory overlooking the garden, making breakfasts a standout feature of their stay.
Rooms at No 45 exude elegance and charm, with guests frequently praising their airy spaciousness and immaculate cleanliness. Stylish furnishings and luxurious king-size beds provide exceptional comfort, fostering a restful retreat. The serene atmosphere is enhanced by garden views and welcoming lounge areas, contributing to an overall sense of relaxation and luxury.
Impeccable cleanliness is a defining trait, with the house maintained to the highest standards, ensuring a pristine experience. The accommodations, described as beautifully decorated and comfortable, leave guests thoroughly impressed.
The exceptional hospitality at No 45 shines through in reviews, with Les and Alison's friendliness and attentiveness creating a warm and inviting environment. Their professionalism, coupled with a personable approach, enriches the guest experience, often complemented by the charming presence of Teddy, the hosts' cockapoo.
Guests traveling by car find No 45 convenient, appreciating the ample and secure parking options available on-site. Generous parking alleviates any stress associated with finding a spot, making it an added advantage for visitors.
A restful night's sleep is almost guaranteed, with the comfortable beds frequently noted as a standout feature. The overall experience at No 45 combines excellent service, a superb location, and remarkable comfort to ensure a memorable stay for all travelers. Show more
InfoSummary of reviewsBallater Hostel, nestled in the charming town of Ballater, enjoys an enviable location that consistently garners praise from guests. Positioned in the heart of the town, it offers easy access to local amenities such as bars, restaurants, and shops, making it a convenient base for exploring the area. Surrounded by picturesque scenery, the hostel is perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures, adding to its appeal for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure in the Scottish countryside. The hostel is particularly ideal for cycling enthusiasts, with secure bike lock-up facilities and free, hassle-free parking enhancing its convenience.
Cleanliness is a standout feature, with guests frequently commending the spotless rooms and immaculate facilities, including a well-maintained kitchen that caters exceptionally to self-catering needs. The neat organization and attention to detail create a homely and cozy environment, ensuring comfortable accommodations for all visitors.
The staff at Ballater Hostel further amplify its glowing reputation. Known for their friendliness and helpfulness, the team, including Dominique and Daniel, is celebrated for their warm hospitality and attentiveness. Their efforts to make guests feel at home are consistently highlighted, alongside their readiness to offer directions and insights into local attractions. The hostel's clean and functional environment is complemented by the community feel fostered by its personnel, who contribute significantly to its welcoming atmosphere and smooth operation. Overall, Ballater Hostel emerges as an attractive choice for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, cleanliness, and exceptional hospitality in the Scottish countryside. Show more
InfoSummary of reviewsBalmoral Arms in Ballater is celebrated for its central location, making it an ideal base for exploring the Scottish Highlands. Guests appreciate its proximity to local amenities, gorgeous walking paths, and attractions such as the Cairngorms National Park and Balmoral Estate, all while enjoying a peaceful setting. The hotel, freshly refurbished, offers stylish and comfortable rooms, complemented by ample parking and friendly, accommodating staff.
Dining at Balmoral Arms is a standout feature, with breakfast receiving high praise for its quality and variety, including locally sourced options. The pleasant dining atmosphere is mirrored in the dinner offerings, which are noted for their delicious Scottish flavors, enhancing the overall guest experience.
Rooms at the hotel combine traditional charm with modern comforts, featuring spacious layouts, luxurious beds, and roll top baths. Cleanliness is a noted priority, with rooms described as clean, cozy, and well-maintained. Staff are frequently lauded for their friendly and attentive service, contributing to a warm and hospitable environment.
While the WiFi service has seen mixed reviews, it generally leaves a positive impression when stable. The hotel's luxurious aspects are highlighted, with lovely suites and an inviting lounge atmosphere that guests find particularly delightful during colder months.
Balmoral Arms is notably dog-friendly, welcoming canine companions with special touches and facilitating pleasant stays for pet owners. Despite some areas for improvement, particularly in achieving a consistent four-star standard and enhancing accessibility, the hotel remains a charming and comfortable retreat for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure in a picturesque Scottish setting. Show more
InfoSummary of reviewsHowe of Torbeg, nestled in the heart of the Highlands within the scenic Cairngorms National Park, offers a serene glamping experience that has garnered widespread praise. The site is celebrated for its breathtaking views of rolling hills, rivers, forests and picturesque meadows. The proximity to Ballater town allows guests easy access to shops and restaurants while maintaining a secluded and private feel, making it an ideal base for outdoor activities or a relaxing retreat.
Breakfast at Howe of Torbeg is a highlight with hearty and tasty offerings delivered directly to the cozy pods. Freshly baked croissants and coffee are among guests' favorites, adding great value and a luxurious touch to their stay. Complemented by well-maintained facilities like washrooms and a tea hut, the breakfast experience is described as convenient and delightful.
Dinner provisions at the site also receive positive reviews. The communal 'Snug' cabin with a wood burner stove/oven offers a cozy setting for meal preparation, complemented by BBQ sets and fire pits available for guest use. Though the cooking facilities are somewhat limited, the hosts provide helpful guidance and free coffee and tea add to the pleasant experience.
The accommodation options, including charming pods and wooden huts, are consistently praised for their coziness and cleanliness. Guests appreciate the comfortable beds, well-equipped amenities and stunning views of the natural landscape. The eco-friendly pods, equipped with heaters, merge seamlessly with their surroundings, providing a rustic yet enjoyable experience.
Cleanliness is a standout feature with spotless and spacious sanitary facilities contributing to the overall comfort of the stay. Shared bathrooms, showers and toilets are meticulously maintained and thoughtfully designed, ensuring an inviting and hygienic environment.
The staff, particularly owners Ian and Nicole, are frequently highlighted for their warm and friendly demeanor, going out of their way to ensure a welcoming and seamless experience. Their exceptional hospitality and responsiveness leave a lasting positive impression on guests.
Parking at Howe of Torbeg, while mostly positive with clearly marked spaces and convenience for motorcyclists, has some minor drawbacks such as limited space and early checkout vehicle restrictions. Nonetheless, the well-maintained parking area and helpful owners enhance the overall experience.
Beds at Howe of Torbeg receive generally positive feedback with many guests appreciating the comfort of the mattresses. Although there is some variation in opinions with a few finding the beds a bit hard or low, the majority report a restful and comfortable sleep.
Overall, Howe of Torbeg is highly recommended for its stunning location, welcoming hosts, excellent amenities and serene glamping experience—perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Show more
InfoSummary of reviewsCelicall, located in the picturesque village of Ballater, offers guests an ideal base for exploring notable attractions like Balmoral Castle and the Cairngorms. Its central yet tranquil setting provides easy access to local dining, shopping, and scenic trails. A highlight of the stay is the exceptional breakfast, which receives high praise for its wide selection of made-to-order hot dishes and delightful English and Scottish options, all served with warm hospitality.
The accommodations at Celicall are characterized by spacious, clean, and well-decorated rooms, complete with private baths and essential amenities such as TVs and tea-making facilities. Despite the building's classic architecture, the rooms are functional and maintain high cleanliness standards, creating a cozy atmosphere. Additionally, guests appreciate the secure and convenient parking options available.
One of Celicall's standout features is its staff, who are universally praised for their friendliness and dedication to guest satisfaction. The hosts offer personal insights and local recommendations, enhancing the visitor experience. Furthermore, the comfort of the beds is frequently noted, contributing to a restful and enjoyable stay.
Overall, Celicall delivers a delightful accommodation experience with its prime location, superb breakfast, clean and comfortable rooms, and an exceptional level of service from its welcoming hosts. It is a preferred choice for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and hospitality in Ballater. Show more
InfoSummary of reviewsCrannach House Bed and Breakfast and Self Catering Apartments stands out as an exceptional destination in the Scottish countryside, combining tranquility with strategic convenience. Its prime location allows guests to easily explore nearby attractions such as Balmoral Castle and the charming town of Ballater, while offering proximity to cycle paths and hiking trails in the Cairngorms for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite being located on a main street, the setting remains quiet and serene, with ample parking available for hassle-free excursions.
Guests rave about the delightful breakfast experience, renowned for a diverse spread featuring hearty full English and Scottish options, homemade jams, marmalades, and honey produced on-site. The amiable host, Doug, enhances this experience with his enthusiastic hospitality, commitment to quality ingredients, and freshly baked bread, leaving visitors satisfied and eager to explore the surrounding area.
The newly renovated, modern rooms are consistently described as clean, spacious, and elegantly decorated, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. While some improvements are underway with the grounds, the exceptional cleanliness of the rooms and en suite bathrooms greatly contributes to guest comfort. Scenic views and opportunities to observe wildlife enrich the overall experience.
Staff hospitality adds a memorable touch, with both current and previous hosts celebrated for their warmth and attentiveness. Doug's charming reception is particularly noted, ensuring guests feel well cared for throughout their stay. This friendly environment complements the accommodation's modern amenities and peaceful surroundings.
Furthermore, Crannach House's ample parking facilities, both on-site and off-street, ease any travel concerns, allowing guests to fully enjoy the site's serene beauty. Along with consistently comfortable beds, visitors enjoy a refreshing sleep environment, although some mention that certain beds may not suit all preferences.
Overall, Crannach House surpasses expectations, providing a serene retreat with quality offerings and welcoming hospitality. The blend of beautiful location, delectable breakfast, clean and modern accommodation, and attentive service makes it a highly praised destination, inviting guests to return to its delightful charm time and again. Show more
InfoSummary of reviewsThe Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel, nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms, provides a picturesque retreat perfect for disconnecting while being surrounded by stunning mountain views, lush greenery and ample hiking opportunities. Its historical Scottish charm is modernized enough to ensure comfort, making it an ideal base for exploring local landmarks like Balmoral Castle. The secluded setting also accommodates wildlife sightings and offers peaceful reconnection with nature without sacrificing accessibility to nearby amenities.
The breakfast experience, while mixed, generally receives praise for its variety and quality of continental offerings such as pastries, cereals, fresh fruit and gluten-free items. Although some guests desired more hot options, the majority found the breakfast delicious and well-presented. Dinner at the hotel is lauded for its delicious, reasonably priced meals with standout dishes like steak pie and salmon. The dining experience is enhanced by a welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, despite occasional minor setbacks like slow service or menu limitations.
The hotel rooms are highly regarded for their cleanliness, comfort and aesthetic appeal, seamlessly blending historical charm with modern amenities. Spacious family suites and beautifully refurbished bathrooms are particular highlights. While some minor updates might be needed in certain areas, the overall room quality remains impressive with cozy furnishings and quiet, scenic views contributing to a pleasant stay.
Cleanliness throughout the hotel is consistently praised, providing guests with a hygienic and comfortable environment. The communal areas and rooms are maintained to a high standard, ensuring guest satisfaction.
Staff at Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel are notably friendly and helpful, creating a homely and accommodating atmosphere. The owners and specific staff members like Marie and Derek are frequently praised for their warm hospitality, assisting guests with local tips and ensuring a seamless stay. Although the occasional issue with staff overwhelm or language barriers is mentioned, the overall service environment remains positive and welcoming.
Wi-Fi access, while strong in the main building, can be intermittent in some rooms, but mobile data provides a reliable alternative. Guests also benefit from ample and convenient parking, despite minor issues with the pot-holed driveway.
The beds in the rooms receive varied feedback with many guests finding them notably comfortable and large, ensuring a good night's sleep. However, some rooms could benefit from bed updates for enhanced comfort.
For dog lovers, the hotel offers exceptional pet-friendly services with well-maintained grounds perfect for dog walks and friendly staff that warmly welcome pets. The presence of the hotel's own charming dog adds to the hospitable environment, making it an ideal choice for travelers with pets.
Overall, Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel excels in providing a serene, scenic and comfortable retreat with excellent service, clean facilities and a welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by its historical charm and pet-friendly policies. Show more
InfoSummary of reviewsSituated in the heart of the Cairngorms, Craggan provides a mesmerizing retreat amidst stunning natural surroundings. Guests appreciate its fabulous location for the panoramic views across fields, hills, and meadows, offering a perfect escape for tranquility seekers. Its proximity to Ballater and Balmoral Castle enhances its appeal, making it an ideal spot for exploring local trails and enjoying the serene landscape of the national park.
Craggan receives high praise for its outstanding breakfast offerings, featuring a wide array of options that include freshly baked cakes, pastries, and sumptuous Scottish favorites, all crafted from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The exceptional presentation and taste of the meals, alongside the variety of vegetarian choices, have earned it rave reviews, with Louise's baking being a notable highlight.
The hotel's rooms are consistently lauded for their spaciousness, comfort, and luxurious Scottish-themed decor. Guests appreciate the generous size of the rooms, cozy beds, and well-equipped bathrooms, adding elegance and comfort to their stay. The immaculately maintained environment, coupled with historic charm, makes for a delightful and inviting atmosphere.
Craggan’s commitment to cleanliness and attention to detail is frequently highlighted, ensuring a spotless and pleasant environment that enhances the overall guest experience. The sound insulation adds to the tranquility, and the hosts, Martyn and Louise, are celebrated for their exceptional hospitality. Their warm and accommodating nature, combined with personalized touches, sets a welcoming tone, earning the duo high praise for their friendly and professional approach.
The bedding at Craggan is another standout feature, with guests consistently praising the remarkable comfort and quality. The luxurious feel of the king-sized beds and high-quality linen contribute to restful nights, making them a notable aspect of the accommodations.
In essence, Craggan offers an elegant and luxurious experience characterized by refined decor, exceptional service, and genuine warmth, providing a comfortable and indulgent stay that leaves a lasting impression. Show more
InfoSummary of reviewsAlexandra Hotel, situated in the picturesque village of Ballater, is highly praised for its prime and central location. The hotel's position allows for easy accessibility to local attractions such as Balmoral and the Cairngorms, making it an ideal base for exploring the scenic surroundings. Guests frequently highlight the convenience and charm of the hotel's setting near the River Dee and quaint shops.
The hotel's breakfast is another standout feature, often described as great, superb and first-class. Freshly cooked options, variety and quality local produce, including traditional Scottish fare like porridge with honey, contribute to a satisfying morning meal. The friendly and attentive staff further enhance the breakfast experience.
Dinner at Alexandra Hotel is equally commendable with guests praising the delicious and varied menu, which includes traditional Scottish dishes and gluten-free options. The cozy bar atmosphere complements the meal, making it a favored spot for evening dining. Exceptional service by the staff also contributes to a warm and welcoming dining environment.
Rooms at the Alexandra Hotel are noted for their comfort and cleanliness. Although some reviews mention the rooms are on the smaller side, guests find them well-furnished and cozy with comfortable beds and attractive decor. Comments on the spotlessly clean and inviting atmosphere are frequent, making the stay pleasant and comfortable.
The staff consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness and hospitality, contributing significantly to the overall positive experience. Guests appreciate the accommodating and polite nature of the team, including the knowledgeable owners who create a welcoming environment.
The beds at the hotel stand out for their exceptional comfort and quality with guests often describing them as extremely comfortable and spacious. Clean, well-laid-out rooms with large beds contribute to restful and pleasant sleep experiences.
For couples seeking a romantic getaway, the Alexandra Hotel offers a charming and intimate atmosphere. The relaxed setting and lovely decor make it an ideal retreat for an enchanting and romantic stay.
Overall, Alexandra Hotel is highly regarded for its excellent location, quality dining experiences, comfortable and clean accommodations and outstanding staff, making it a favored spot for travelers exploring Ballater and its beautiful surroundings. Show more
InfoSummary of reviewsSt Andrews House in Ballater is widely praised for its superb location, offering a tranquil environment near the vibrant village center. Guests consistently commend its positioning on the town's edge, providing peaceful surroundings while still allowing easy access to local restaurants, shops, and attractions. The scenic setting is a highlight for many visitors.
The accommodation is described as exceptionally clean and beautifully decorated, exuding a sense of comfort and luxury. Rooms are spacious, spotlessly maintained, and outfitted with modern furnishings, contributing to an elegant and cozy atmosphere. The comfort of the beds is frequently highlighted as a standout feature, with high-quality linens enhancing the restful experience.
St Andrews House is celebrated for its delightful breakfast offerings, which cater to a variety of tastes with freshly prepared and delicious items. Guests appreciate the pleasant dining room ambiance and personable service from hosts Natalie and Tony, who contribute significantly to the hospitable experience.
The hosts, Natalie and Tony, are recognized for their exceptional warmth and friendliness, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere from arrival to departure. Their attentiveness and local knowledge enhance guests' stays, making them feel valued and cared for.
Overall, St Andrews House combines top-tier hospitality, impeccable cleanliness, and elegant accommodations with a superb location, making it an ideal choice for both short visits and longer vacations. Guests frequently describe their stays as fantastic, thoroughly enjoying the blend of comfort, style, and hospitality that defines this charming establishment. Show more
