Balmoral Arms

The young woman at reception deserves a special mention. She was calm and helpful, and made check-in and the rest of our stay smooth despite the heavy snowfall and all the complications it caused. We stayed overnight during a spell of deep snow that made Ballater look like a winter postcard. Outside was harsh, but inside the Balmoral Arms felt warm and comfortable. The traditional Scottish touches and more modern decor worked nicely together, and the open fires were the heart of the place. Hearing them crackle as we arrived in the evening and left in the morning made the hotel feel like a shelter from the weather. Breakfast was a treat. I had the Eggs Balmoral, a Scottish take on Eggs Benedict with rich, savoury haggis instead of ham. It was perfectly poached and carefully prepared. The team were excellent throughout, and the hotel made for a cosy, refined retreat in the middle of a Highland winter.

We brought our dog, and she was looked after so well. Someone always seemed to have a treat for her, and her little goodie bag in the room was a lovely touch. We had a delicious evening meal at the hotel, and the room was cosy with very attentive service. It was such a relaxing night. We played board games with drinks by a crackling fire, as part of an itison voucher I’d given my partner for his birthday. The hotel is beautiful, and we’d 100% go back.

We also ate at Balmoral Arms, and the food was excellent. The ingredients were good quality and the presentation made the meal memorable. It’s a charming, peaceful place to unwind, with traditional character and a warm welcome in a beautiful setting. We’d gladly recommend it and return.

We were in the area for a family wedding at Mar Lodge Estate, so we didn’t eat in the main restaurant. Breakfast, cooked to order, was superb. The room was very comfortable, the bar was a delight, and the staff were attentive. A lovely hotel right in the heart of Ballater. Highly recommended.