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Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel Ballater Nearby photoCambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel Ballater Exterior photoCambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel Ballater Exterior photo

CAMBUS O' MAY TRADITIONAL HIGHLAND HOTEL, Ballater

8.5|Great
Check rooms and rates
From$78 /nightOnly on Our Website -10%
Check-in
16Oct
Check-out
17Oct
Guests
2 Guests
Key details

About the Hotel

Cambus O May Hotel, Ballater, AB35 5SE
-
Near the Muir of Dinnet
Great
8.5
/10
4.5
/5

3-star Traditional Highland Hotel in Royal Deeside woodland

Accommodations

The hotel offers family rooms, deluxe double rooms with four-poster beds, and single rooms with private bathrooms. Each room includes soundproofing, garden or mountain views, and some suites have a separate seating area. The Three-Bedroom Vacation Home and One-Bedroom Apartment provide self-contained options with kitchen facilities for longer stays.

Dining

The on-site restaurant serves British cuisine with daily changing menus, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. A continental breakfast buffet offers fresh pastries, cheeses, fruits, smoked salmon, and eggs, with special diet menus available upon request. The bar provides a selection of wines, champagne, and local whiskies, complemented by a coffee house on site.

Leisure

Guests have access to a sauna, free bicycle rental, and badminton equipment, with a golf course located 13 km away at Aboyne Golf Club. The hotel grounds include a garden, sun terrace, outdoor fireplace, BBQ facilities, and a picnic area for outdoor relaxation. Cycling and bike tours are encouraged, with ski storage available during winter months.

Pet-Friendly & Family

The hotel welcomes pets with pet baskets and bowls, and allows dogs in common areas except the dining room. Children have a dedicated playground, outdoor play equipment, and board games and puzzles in the shared lounge. Family rooms and the Three-Bedroom Vacation Home accommodate larger groups, with a kids' outdoor play area and a children's playground on site.

Business & Convenience

Meeting and banquet facilities, along with fax/photocopying services, are available for business events. An electric vehicle charging station and accessible parking are provided, with a paid airport shuttle and luggage storage. Laundry services and packed lunches can be arranged, with 24-hour security and CCTV throughout the property.

Highlights

Location: Woodland estate 10 min from Ballater, near Balmoral Castle

Rooms: Four-poster beds, family suites, self-catering apartments

Dining: Daily changing British menu with vegan & gluten-free options

Wellness: Sauna, bicycle rental, outdoor fireplace & BBQ

Activities: Cycling, golf nearby, children's playground, badminton

Pet policy: Dog-friendly with pet baskets and bowls

Business: Meeting facilities, electric vehicle charging, airport shuttle

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll through the charming Ballater Village market on Thursdays.
  • Try the local venison stew at The Glenlivet Bar for a hearty meal.
  • Explore the stunning Cairngorms National Park for breathtaking views.
  • Visit the Royal Lochnagar Distillery for a whisky tasting experience.
  • Discover the history at Ballater's Old Royal Station museum.

Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
  • Family Double Room
    2 persons
    20 m²
    2 Single beds
    Heating
    Shower
  • Small Single Room
    2 persons
    7 m²
    1 Single bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Twin Room Mountain View
    2 persons
    14 m²
    2 Single beds
    Heating
    Shower
Show all rooms

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October 2026 - October 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay
Facilities: Great
8.3/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Ski storage
  • Coffee shop
  • Fireplace
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Skiing
  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Cycling
  • Badminton
  • Golf course
  • Fishing

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Pet amenities available
  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games
  • Children's play area

Spa & Leisure

  • Sun loungers
  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • BBQ facilities
  • Leisure/ TV room
  • Sauna

Room features

  • Heating
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Dining table
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Washing machine
  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel Location

Cambus O May Hotel, Ballater, AB35 5SE
Explore Ballater
Explore Cambus O' May
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Cambus O' May
5 minutes' walk
Cambus O' May offers scenic walking paths along the river and picturesque views perfect for photography.
Muir of Dinnet
Muir of Dinnet
25 minutes' walk
Muir of Dinnet features stunning nature trails and wildlife opportunities, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Burn O'Vat
Burn O'Vat
45 minutes' walk
Burn O'Vat showcases impressive rock formations and tranquil woodland, perfect for a peaceful day out.
Monaltrie Monument
25 minutes' walk
Monaltrie Monument provides historical significance with great views, ideal for history buffs and hikers alike.
Hiking Trails
25 minutes' walk
Hiking trails in the vicinity cater to all skill levels, featuring stunning landscapes and local flora.
Wildlife Watching
30 minutes' drive
Wildlife watching opportunities nearby include spotting deer and various bird species in their natural habitat.
Yoga at the Glen
15 minutes' drive
Relaxing yoga sessions are available in scenic settings for those seeking tranquility amidst nature.
The Bothy Restaurant
5 minutes' drive
Traditional Scottish dishes in a cozy atmosphere with local ingredients. Reservations recommended for peak times.
The Village Restaurant
10 minutes' drive
Offers a variety of international cuisine in a relaxed setting, known for its vegetarian options and daily specials.
The Co-op Cafe
5 minutes' walk
A casual spot for coffee and light bites, featuring homemade cakes and a welcoming atmosphere for families.
Royal Deeside Golf Club
10 minutes' drive
A perfect outing for golf enthusiasts with stunning landscape views. Membership or guest fees may apply.
Ballater Golf Club
15 minutes' drive
Family-friendly golf course offering a mix of fun events and tournaments for all ages, with a friendly atmosphere.
Local Music Nights
10 minutes' drive
Check out local pubs for live music nights featuring Scottish folk and contemporary music in a vibrant atmosphere.
Getting around the city
  • City Centre
    Ballater 8 min  ·  5.3 km
  • Airports
    Aberdeen (ABZ) 85 min  ·  56.6 km
    Dundee (DND) 169 min  ·  112.2 km
  • Bus
    Bus stop 6 min  ·  4 km
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Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:00
Check-out
from 06:00-11:00
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
A full breakfast is served at the price of GBP 0.1 per person.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
Spanish
Number of rooms:
20

Guest ratings and detailed reviews

Feedback about Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel is appreciated for its traditional and cosy feel, nestled in private woodland with areas for exploration. Many guests enjoy the location, finding it ideal for walks and day trips to Loch Muick, the Muir of Dinnet Nature Reserve, and the Cambus o' May suspension bridge; it's also a short drive from Balmoral Castle and the Royal Lochnagar Distillery. The spacious rooms and well-appointed bathrooms are commonly praised, though a few guests have noted that some of the furnishings appear dated. A continental breakfast is included, and the hotel restaurant offers tasty, home-cooked meals, along with a good selection of whiskies at the bar.
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Review score
Based on 6 verified reviews
7.8 /10
Very good
100 %
Recommend
Location
9.2/10
Staff
9.1/10
Breakfast
7.7/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.2/10
Pros
Welcoming staff
Comfy beds
Tasty meals
Great location
Cons
Cold rooms
Guest reviews
based on 6 reviews
7.8/10
based on 1955 reviews
8.5/10
penelope from united kingdom
Family with children
double room mountain view
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 07, 2026
9.0/10

charming highland getaway!

friendly staff evening meal
I found the staff friendly. the evening meal i had was really good. i also adored the breakfast. There was a lot of variety with high-quality products used. the open fire in the evenings. sheera's presence, enhanced my experience.
the entrance to the hotel felt a bit dangerous and needs attention soon. i was terrified each time i had to navigate it. this issue was great.
Rooms
9/10
my en suite room offered beautiful views of rolling hills and woodland splendor. a great-sized bath with a hand-held shower attachment was included, as requested. the comfortable bed came with a warm duvet and lovely pillows.
Location
8/10
The hotel is set in the rugged scottish countryside. Trees surround it. there are lovely woodland walks around the premises. i found beautiful views of rolling hills and woodland splendor to appreciate.
Service
10/10
The owners offered a very personal service. They were so friendly. the furniture and fittings are carefully chosen to suit the building's era. the atmosphere was warm and relaxing. The owners are very cute.
0 Helpful
|
Charlotte from United Kingdom
Single
Deluxe Double Room Shower
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 31, 2026
7/10

A decent enough place

i stayed in a well furnished room. the shower was excellent. derek (manager) and kate (chef etc) were friendly and had lots of local information.
the hotel had few staff when i arrived. the bar closed early at 9.30, so i had to rush my drinks.
0 Helpful
Molly from United Kingdom
Single
Single Room Shower
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 28, 2026
9.0/10

charming traditional stay

old worldly feel comfortable room clean shower
the building had a lovely old worldly feel, surrounded by woodland and ample parking. my room was a quaint single room. the décor matched the building's age, yet it was comfortable and clean. the shower room, a couple of steps up, had excellent style and cleanliness. i liked the tiles.
I found that the food was not always freshly cooked. Some dishes seemed reheated.
Rooms
9/10
the room featured décor in keeping with the building's age. it was comfortable and clean, providing an appropriate space for relaxation, i found the shower room had great style and attention to cleanliness.
Dining
8/10
the evening meal provided a tasty experience with generous portions. the continental style breakfast offered sufficient options. i enjoyed the variety and quality available each morning.
Service
9/10
the staff were attentive. they addressed requests efficiently, contributing to a smooth experience. i found them polite .
Location
10/10
the hotel offers a setting near woodland, a short distance from various amenities. it is convenient to explore nearby areas. i was able to easily access local attractions.
Facilities
9/10
parking was plentiful, a useful amenity. the building exuded a historical ambiance. i found the overall atmosphere very pleasing.
0 Helpful
|
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Rosie from United Kingdom
Couple
Deluxe Double Room Bath
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 21, 2025
8.5/10

Charming Stay, Wonderful Staff!!!

friendly staff tasty meal good atmosphere woodland walk
The hotel has a good, cute atmosphere. The staff was friendly and helpful throughout my stay. The meals tasted great and the presentation was nice. The location offers lots of woodland walks and beautiful scenery from the room.
The wooden windowsill looked aged with signs of wear.
Dining
9/10
Evening meals were good, and I ate at the hotel every night. Breakfast had lots of options available, a great start to the day. Staff were lovely.
Facilities
8/10
The hotel is dog-friendly, a great bonus for travelers! The interiors had a pretty traditional style with a log fire always going in the bar and lounge area. The location proved fabulous for planned activities.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
roger from united kingdom
Single
double room mountain view
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 16, 2025
6/10
wrong room soundproof wall
the food was reasonably priced.
the room i booked was not the room i received. the chap at reception just shrugged and said 'somebody else is in it'. also, the soundproof walls did not work at all.
0 Helpful
Lily from United Kingdom
Couple
Double Room Mountain View
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 02, 2025
7/10
cute staff outdoor space cold hotel electric heater
the staff were very cute and helpful. the setting was nice with great outdoor space, we really enjoyed it.
the hotel was cold. thankfully there were individual electric heaters to heat the room, though?
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel
What are the check-in and check-out times at Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
What dining options are available at Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant serving British cuisine, with options for vegetarian, dairy-free, and vegan diets.
What breakfast is offered at Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel?
A buffet or continental breakfast is available each morning for an additional charge.
What amenities are provided in the rooms at Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel?
Rooms are equipped with a seating area, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, tea and coffee-making facilities, and a private bathroom with free toiletries.
Which attractions are located near Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Balmoral Castle (23 km), Aboyne Golf Club (13 km), and Craigievar Castle (25 km).
What recreational activities can guests enjoy at Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel?
The hotel offers activities such as cycling, hiking, skiing, and features a children's playground.
Is there an airport shuttle service at Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel?
A paid airport shuttle service is available for guests.
How far is Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel from Aberdeen Airport?
The hotel is located 56 km from Aberdeen Airport.
Can I access free Wi-Fi at Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
Are there any specialized facilities for children at Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel?
The hotel features a children's playground for young guests.

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