Tucked into the rolling hills of Aberdeenshire in the Scottish Highlands north of Edinburgh lies one of the most storied and beloved royal residences: Balmoral Castle. More than just an architectural treasure, Balmoral is steeped in personal history, scenic grandeur, and a tangible sense of peace that captivated Queen Elizabeth II and other royals. It was where she died in 2022.
A visit to Balmoral isn’t merely a tour of a royal estate—it’s a view into a quieter, more intimate side of British royalty, and a gateway to exploring some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Scottish Highlands.
A Brief History of Balmoral Castle
The Balmoral estate was first purchased in 1852 by Prince Albert, consort to Queen Victoria. The estate quickly won the couple’s hearts, leading them to buy the property and commission a new castle in the Scottish baronial style. Completed in 1856, the new Balmoral Castle became a sanctuary for the Queen and Prince Albert—a retreat far from the formalities of court life in London.
The surrounding 50,000-acre estate, dotted with forests, lochs, and mountains, offered the royals the chance to walk, ride, hunt, and fish. Queen Victoria’s journals frequently referenced her affection for the estate, and after Prince Albert’s death in 1861, Balmoral became a place of healing and reflection for her. That tradition of royal solace continued for generations, and none embraced Balmoral more than Queen Elizabeth II.
Queen Elizabeth II and Balmoral: A Personal Haven
Of all the Queen’s residences, Balmoral was said to be Queen Elizabeth II’s personal favorite. Every summer, she would retreat to the estate from late July until early October, relishing the opportunity to step away from the public gaze. “It’s the most beautiful place on earth,” she reportedly said, and those who visited with her, from family members to prime ministers, often echoed that sentiment.
Queen Elizabeth II particularly cherished the simple pleasures of Balmoral. She loved the fresh Highland air, the serene lochs, and the freedom of wearing casual attire—tartan skirts, headscarves, and wellies—away from the rigid formality of Buckingham Palace. Evenings were often spent enjoying hearty Scottish dinners —venison hunted on the grounds, salmon fished from the River Dee, and vegetables grown in the gardens —followed by informal after-dinner games like charades or jigsaw puzzles. She took great pleasure in personally setting the table or clearing up, delighting in the relaxed domesticity that Balmoral offered. It was also at Balmoral that many family traditions were forged, including long hikes with dogs and picnics by the river. For Queen Elizabeth, Balmoral wasn’t just a retreat—it was a home in the truest sense of the word.
Touring Balmoral Castle
Though Balmoral Castle remains a private residence, it is open to the public during certain times of the year, typically from April to early August before the royal family arrives for the summer. Visitors can explore the grounds, gardens, exhibitions, and the ballroom, the only room inside the castle that is open to public view. But with LuxEurope, we can secure your entry, and inside, you can enjoy a guided tour of select rooms and see many original pieces of art and personal belongings from Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
Outside, the formal gardens, first designed by Prince Albert and later expanded, are a delight. A walk through the rose gardens, past glasshouses filled with fuchsias and geraniums, reveals the estate’s blend of elegance and rustic charm.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
Braemar
Located just a 15-minute drive west of Balmoral, Braemar is a picturesque village known for its strong ties to Scottish culture and sport. It hosts the Braemar Gathering each September, a historic Highland Games event attended frequently by the royal family. Even outside the games season, Braemar’s charm lies in its cozy cafes, craft shops, and panoramic walks.
Cairngorms National Park
Balmoral lies within the Cairngorms National Park, the UK’s largest national park. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore hiking trails, go mountain biking, or try their hand at fly-fishing. One popular trail is the Lochnagar Munro Walk, a demanding yet rewarding hike offering views over the estate and beyond. Lochnagar was one of Prince Charles’s favorite climbs and even inspired his children’s book, The Old Man of Lochnagar.
Ballater
To the east of Balmoral lies Ballater, a charming Victorian village known for its royal connections and boutique shops. The village features the Royal Station, originally built to serve Queen Victoria and now housing a visitor center, exhibitions, and a lovely café. A must-visit for foodies, The Rothesay Rooms was established with the support of King Charles III (then Prince Charles) to support local economies. It offers seasonal menus with ingredients sourced from nearby farms and estates. Strolling through Ballater, you’ll notice royal warrants proudly displayed above local businesses, a testament to the area’s continued relationship with the monarchy.
Final Thoughts
A visit to Balmoral Castle and its surroundings is unlike any other royal experience. Here, the grandeur of monarchy meets the serenity of the Scottish wilderness. It is easy to see why Queen Elizabeth II loved Balmoral so deeply—it represents a slice of authentic, tranquil life surrounded by nature, tradition, and family.
Whether you’re a royal enthusiast, a lover of landscapes, or a seeker of peace, Balmoral and Royal Deeside offer a journey into the heart of Scottish heritage and the private lives of Britain’s royal family. Just be prepared—once you’ve experienced the quiet majesty of Balmoral, you might find yourself returning again and again.
Let LuxEurope craft your journey around the UK to Balmoral Castle and nearby Edinburgh. And, if you are a fan of Harry Potter, Outlander, and Game of Thrones, we can design a themed trip. Your visit can also be combined with a stay in London. If you’re thinking about visiting the area but aren’t sure where to start, get in touch!