Royal Deeside - A Land of Must-Visit Castles

Among the many reasons to visit what is known as Scotland’s Royal Valley, its immaculate pulchritude could not be completely defined without the presence of its irreproachable castles. Here are just a handful of these goliaths, as there are too many to mention them all.

When one thinks of castles, there’s no doubt Scotland is the first place that comes to mind and the Royal Deeside, in particular, has its fair share in this scenic corner of the country. Flowing with some of the most exquisite scenery, this land of wonder is known, not only for its enchanting beauty but, for its enticing majestic castles, giving the perfect feeling of royalty to all whom make a point to visit.

If royalty is what you seek, Balmoral Castle is the way to go. Located in the Cairngorms National Park, this remarkable estate has been owned by the Royal Family since 1852. Now used as their summer home, this castle stands as a revelation of how the name “Royal Deeside” was adopted.

This ancient castle, once a stronghold for the Earls of Mar in the Middle Ages, was built in the year 1628. Its ancient walls are open to the public, since 2008, and are considered to be an absolute must see. As an added bonus, for all of the ghost hunters out there, Castle Braemar reputedly houses several reported ghosts.

When you visit the Royal Deeside, Braemar is a must-see place.

Said to have been built in the year 1280 A.D. by Alexander III, Drum Castle is reported to be the oldest standing building, still intact, in the country. Though additions have been made throughout the history of this ancient monarch, the original structure has been unaltered, magnifying the lustrous, brilliant architecture of its time.

For royalty, ancient architecture and a treasure of history, stop by at the Drum Castle when you visit the Royal Deeside.

As stated earlier, Royal Deeside holds a numerous variety of castles, in which there are too many to detail on all of them. However, if a visit to Deeside castles is what one desires, do not forget about Corgarff, Craigiervar, Crathes, Glenbuchat, Kildrummy, Kindrochit and Knock Castles during the journey.

Corgarff was built in the 16th century, and is mostly famous for its unique wall, in the shape of a star.

Kildrummy has been ruined but it still remains a masterpiece from the 13th century, especially for its twin-towered gatehouse and chapel windows.

Glenbuchat Castle was built in the 1950's for the celebration of John Gordon of Cairnbarrow's wedding. In spite not having a roof, the building is still standing and is an amazing place to visit in Deeside.

With so much to see and do in Deeside, planning to stay a while is almost a guarantee. Thankfully, scenic Deeside, in all its beauty, offers a multitude of accommodations to suit anyone’s lifestyle or needs. Take your pick from majestic hotels, breathtaking lodges, homey caravans, or cozy little tents. Whatever the preference, either choice is sure to maximize your visit and refresh your body in preparation for the days to come.

Whether it is your first time visit to Royal Deeside or you are a returning admirer, the beauty that awaits you is an experience that is sure to make you feel like royalty. Live life to the fullest and revel through the history of ancient Scotland as you embark on a memory that will last forever. From its beautiful attractions to its majestic castles, every step of the way will leave you breathless to the very end.

Have you ever been to the Royal Deeside? Share a comment below, I would love to hear about your experience!