Looking for Ballater Advice
 

We are traveling at the end of June to Ballater in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. We'll fly into Aberdeen and spend the night. My questions are (1) the best way to get to Ballater, specifically the Hilton Craigendarroch, (2) are there riding-hailing services (similar to Lyft or Uber) available in Ballater, and (3) what are the laundry facilities at the Hilton Craigendarroch or nearby.

I don't want to rent a car since it adds so much stress to our relationship. We're celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary and I have learned to pick my battles! :-) I'd much rather leave the driving to a local and just enjoy the journey.

Hi -- glad you started a new thread :)

>>are there riding-hailing services (similar to Lyft or Uber) available in Ballater<<

Ballater is a tiny place - less than 1500 total population. There is nothing in the village itself except a pretty river running through and a very few cafes/restaurants. No sites - anyplace you will want to see/visit over your stay are not within walking distance and taxis/day drivers will cost a fortune. The nearest 'site' is Balmoral and it is 10 miles/25 minute drive up river. Most of the castles/attractions will be an hour or more away. The nearest major site - Craigievar Castle - is a 45 minute drive. Maybe the front desk can arrange daily drivers for you but that really isn't practical for a week's stay.

>>what are the laundry facilities at the Hilton Craigendarroch or nearby.<<

Depends on if you are staying in the hotel bldg or in one of the lodges. Each lodge has its own washer dryer, but there is a small communal laundry room in the main bldg.

Craigendarroch is a wonderful property but I am very curious why you booked there of you don't plan on renting a car. Just not practical. You do know it is nearly a 90 minute drive from the airport???

Meant to add - if you read the old thread you first posted to, you will have already seen a loooong discussion about the reasons a car is just about a requirement for staying there.