Highland Retreats for self-catering vacations in Deeside, Aberdeenshire

Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms is Scotland's crowning glory. The village of Lumphanan is located inside one of Scotland's most enchanting landscapes. Explore the timeless beauty of this refreshingly different destination. Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms attract travellers from far across the world - and all are lured back by the colourful grouse moors, native Scots pine, highland rivers and misty blue mountains. The scenery here truly soothes the soul and captures the imagination. The landscape is ideal for walking, cycling and other outdoor pursuits.

The Royal Deeside area is nestled between the Cairngorms National Park and Aberdeen, Scotland's third largest city, where this regal landscape rests in the magnificent valley of the River Dee. Rising high into the rugged Cairngorm Mountains, the river flows 85 miles through some of Scotland's finest backdrops.

Follow royal footsteps on the Victorian Heritage Trail in Royal Deeside which will take you through towns, landmarks, beauty spots and attractions with a special connection to Queen Victoria. Balmoral Castle, summer home of the Royal Family, rests in the shadows of Lochnagar, known locally as the jewel of all mountains.

Outdoor activities include hill walking, fishing, mountain biking, skiing and running. Hosting unique traditional Highland Games and festivals, the area even attracts Hollywood celebrities! Royal Deeside is home to much rare wildlife and plant species - exploring the nooks and crannies of the varied landscape will uncover capercaillie, red squirrels, roe deer and golden eagles. Rich in its history, music and culture, the ancient sites that can be found around the scattered settlings are full of mystery and folk lore. Lumphanan is closely linked to Macbeth: the Peel Ring, Macbeth's Well and Macbeth's Cairn are all located within 2 miles.