Home to more than 100 miles of estate trails (from gentle riverside strolls to more challenging climbs through pine forests and up to breathtaking viewpoints) Glen Tanar has something to offer everyone – and moving your body here is definitely good for the soul.
Especially if you're returning to one of the estate's charming self-catering cottages for some warm, welcoming and down-to-earth hospitality afterwards. You'll feel refreshed, recharaged and immersed in Scotland's natural beauty.
So, switch off, breathe in the fresh air and explore at your own pace. Join guided walks to learn about the estate’s history, wildlife and conservation efforts; jump on your bike or give geocaching a try.
Meander by the Water of Tanar
Family walks work well here with short, flat loops suitable for a range of speeds and pebble beaches that are perfect for picnics - meaningful experiences guaranteed.
Tackle single-track trails across heathery moors
Hillwalkers have their pick of more challenging way-marked trails in our natural playground. Will you go along the glens or over traditional drovers’ routes towards Mount Keen, Scotland’s most easterly Munro? The Glen Tanar Estate National Nature Reserve is also nearby for more ambitious trekkers.
Start with The Glen Tanar Visitor Centre
Here, you’ll find car parking, toilets, a permanent exhibition and a ranger service team. They can advise on exploring the area and creating bespoke experiences, as well as providing information on wildlife, flora and fauna.
Outdoor education and environmental activities
Educational groups are always welcome and this unique location with direct access to the Cairngorms National Park is a great base from which to explore outdoor activities. The visitor centre and ranger service, run by Glen Tanar Charitable Trust, is open seven days a week between 10am and 5pm. The rangers can be contacted by calling +44 (0)13398 86072 or emailing ranger@glentanartrust.org.
Treasure hunting with a difference
If you enjoy the thrill of a treasure hunt, geocaching is for you
An immersive experience in nature, this real-world outdoor game involves navigating to a specific set of GPS coordinates. Once there, you try to find the geocache (container) hidden at the location. There are several caches at Glen Tanar that can be tracked and found via www.geocaching.com
Geocache your way along the Deeside Way
Those staying in the area can visit the Glen Tanar estate office to start their GeoCoin collection. Extra stamps can be gathered by spending a minimum of £10 at participating businesses, of which Glen Tanar is one. More information can be found here.
Off-the-beaten-track by bike
Get even more out of this beautiful glen
From high-intensity mountain biking to a gentle family pedal, Glen Tanar’s ancient woodlands, off-road tracks and forest trails offer some of the best biking country in the Scottish Highlands. It's the perfect escape - and there’s something for all skill levels.
Choose from flat, mid-length circular loops from around 5km in length to thrilling long-distance rides, high in the rolling hills. Experienced mountain bikers, why not challenge yourself to hit the top of Mount Keen? At 939m, it’s probably the UK’s highest bike ride…
Haven't brought your bike? Hire at Cycle Highlands, Ballater.
