The scenic landscape, surrounding the Aberdeenshire village worst hit by Storm Frank’s floods, will form the centrepiece of a new five-star walking event.
Walk About Ballater 2016 is designed to highlight the landscape around Royal Deeside, which cast a spell on Queen Victoria and generations of royals, to visitors next week.
The treks will take place from May 23 to 27, offering people the chance to explore a new area every day.
Local volunteers will escort walkers on every excursion around the Ballater environs, enlightening them on the history of the region.
During the events, visitors will explore some of the Royal Family’s favourite spots, including the River Dee, Crathie and mighty Munro, Lochnagar.
John Burrows of Walk About Ballater said that people of all ages and capabilities would enjoy the experiences on offer.
He added: “The only way you can truly get a feel for the area is by walking through it.
“Five walks have been organised, with the first starting on Monday, May 23. Each day will bring a different location, distance and ascent.
“The days range from a gentle four-hour walk providing fantastic views over the Dee valley, to an 18km (11-mile) trek with a 430m (1410ft) ascent to Craig Vallich.
“We’re very proud to be able to offer such a wealth of scenery and walking routes.”
Richard Watts, of Ballater Business Association, claimed the walks would “showcase the very best of what this area has to offer”.
He explained: “This is the perfect way to kickstart our summer tourist season, and the walks are a reminder of exactly why visitors return to Ballater year after year.
“It’s wonderful to see locals get involved by volunteering their time to lead walks and provide information about Ballater to visitors.”
Walk About Ballater’s first scheduled trek will take participants on an 11-mile circular route from Ballater through Glenmuick and is expected to take five-and-a-half hours.
Full details can be given by e-mailing johnburrows1@btinternet.com.
Further information is available from www.visitballater.com. Walkers can sign up on the day.
