Speyside & Deeside

Guide to Speyside, home to much of Scotland's whisky and Royal Deeside, most famous as the summer residence of the Queen.

The Area Around Speyside

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The River Spey is Scotland's second longest river, rising in the hills above Loch Laggan and making its way northeast to where it debouches at Spey Bay, on the Moray coast. Speyside is one of Scotland's loveliest valleys and is synonymous with two of Scotland's greatest products, salmon and whisky. The upper part, Strathspey, is equally famous for its hiking, skiing and watersports. It is covered in the Highlands chapter. This section covers the lower part of the valley and comprises the famous Malt Whisky Trail. There are more malt whisky distilleries in this small area than in any other part of the country, including some famous brands such as Glenlivet and Glenfiddich. However, it's not all whisky in these parts: there's also some fine walking along the 45-mile Speyside Way, which runs from Spey Bay south to Tomintoul.

Royal Deeside

The River Dee rises in the Cairngorms and flows down through the surrounding hills, eastwards to the sea at Aberdeen. The valley of the Dee is known as Deeside, or rather Royal Deeside, for its connections with the royal family, who have holidayed here, at Balmoral, since Queen Victoria first arrived in 1848. Originally, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert were looking for an estate further west, but were advised that the Deeside climate would be better for Albert's delicate constitution. The queen fell in love with this area and its people, and following Albert's death she sought out the company of straight-talking northerners, preferring their down-to-earth honesty to the two-faced toadies she endured at court.

Today, Deeside's royal associations have made it the tourist honeypot of the northeast, but the royal presence has also saved it from mass development. There's an air of understated affluence and refinement in the villages strung out along the A93 that runs along the north bank of the Dee and, as well as the obvious attraction of Balmoral, there are many other fine examples of baronial castles.

Things to do

Deeside has a spectacular and exciting landscape that is well suited for walking, cycling and other outdoor pursuits including fishing, mountain biking or skiing. There are many interesting things to do in Deeside. Set out on a Victorian Heritage Trail to follow the royal footsteps and to explore the towns, landmarks and attractions that are closely connected with Queen Victoria. Balmoral Castle, summer home of the Royal Family that is nestled in Lochnagar, known as the jewel of all mountains in another must see destination here. Grounds, gardens and exhibitions in Balmoral Castle are open to the public. The Ranger Service offers a series of easy guided walks including easy hikes, family outings and mountain walks up Lochnagar. Tel: +44(0)13397 42534

The pretty towns and villages that along the Royal Deeside stand out for their uniqueness. Do not miss out the unique Highland Games and festivals, which draws even Hollywood celebrities to Deeside! There are many historic sites too in Deeside that will you more about the rich culture , tradition and folk lores of this interesting destination. No matter whether you are here on a weekend ramble or a longer holiday, unlimited fun and excitement is guaranteed while you are in this post card pretty destination.

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