2026 Ballater Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

📍Cairngorms National Park Cairngorms is twice the size of the Lake District. Here you’ll find endless snowy mountains, fairy-tale lakes, ancient castles, adorable reindeer, and even a chance to see the Northern Lights! Missing this spot on your UK trip would be a real mistake! ⭕️ Transportation Tips: 🚄 Take the train from Edinburgh to Aviemore + 🚌 direct buses to the heart of the park (⚠️ Note! The park’s attractions are very spread out, so it’s best to rent a car starting from the station) ⚠️ Train tickets are much cheaper if bought in advance! Plus, you can get 39% off train tickets ⬇️ See below if you don’t know how to buy 5% off train tickets + 20% off railcard❗⬆️ Returning users remember to register a new account to claim! 🔵 Must-Do Tips: ✅ See the UK’s only wild reindeer herd! Join a hiking group at the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, follow the guide up the mountain, and hand-feed the gentle reindeer in the vast wilderness. When they eat from your palm with their furry mouths, it’s pure happiness～ ✅ Hike to Loch Uaine This lake is a hidden gem in the park! It’s just a short walk from the parking lot. The water is an incredible emerald green due to microorganisms from the surrounding pine trees, like a huge emerald set in the forest—100% photogenic! ✅ Wait for the Northern Lights in the park Cairngorms has very little light pollution and is one of the best stargazing spots in the UK. On a clear night, look up to see the dazzling Milky Way. Especially in autumn and winter, you have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights with the naked eye here!

Balmoral Castle, Aberdeen, Scotland You can get there either by car or bus (no.201), but I recommend you to go there by car if you have your own car or enough budged to get taxi. It’s because the local bus will take more than 2 hours to get there due to stop more than 100 stops… The price for the entry fee is around £16 and there are a nice cafe/restaurant with the Queen Elizabeth ll’s pictures on the wall near the castle which will be open until 17:00. #balmoralcastle #aberdeen #scotland I think it’s still a hidden sightseeing spot, so you will be able to take a lot of nice pictures over there with the beautiful castle as the background.

#skitrip Scotland’s ultimate ski mecca spans 40km of terrain across 4 mountains—with 36 runs catering to all levels, from gentle green slopes for beginners to heart-pounding black diamonds for pros. Boasting a state-of-the-art snow factory, it guarantees prime snow conditions even in mild winters. A 2-hour drive from Aberdeen, the resort offers spacious car parks, on-site gear rentals, and cozy cafes serving haggis pies. The scenic drive over Cairnwell Pass is worth the trip alone, while the lively apres-ski vibe in nearby Braemar keeps the fun going post-slope. It’s the UK’s most epic ski playground for groups and adventure seekers.

🇬🇧 The ultimate UK skiing experience is here! No need to fly to Europe, amazing ski resorts are right at home❄️ Here’s a detailed guide for you, bookmark this👇 🚂 Travel Tips: Buy UK train tickets in advance and save 39%! Step-by-step guide to snag great deals👉 ⚠️ Returning users, remember to switch to a new account to claim discounts! ⛷️ Top 5 Hidden Ski Resorts: 🏔️Glenshee Ski Centre 📍Address: AB35 5XU, Scotland 💰£35/day｜36 slopes + 22 lifts ✨ The largest ski resort in the UK! Four valleys connected as one, known as the Disneyland of skiing🎢 ❄️Nevis Range 📍Address: PH33 6SQ, Scotland 💰£40/day｜At the foot of the UK’s highest peak ✨ Skiing above the clouds☁️ A must for advanced skiers! Wild slopes + thrilling Back Corries terrain 🚠Cairngorm Mountain 📍Address: PH22 1RB, Scotland 💰£38/day｜Exclusive alpine cable railway ✨ Cable car views are stunning🌄 A paradise for intermediate skiers, perfect for family trips ⛰️Glencoe Mountain 📍Address: PH49 4HZ, Scotland 💰£38/day｜Scotland’s oldest ski resort ✨ Flypaper black run warning! One of the steepest slopes in the UK😱 Pros, come challenge it! 🏢Chill Factore 📍Address: M41 7JA, Manchester 💰From £40/1.5h｜Indoor real snow slope ✨ 180-meter super long slope! Ski all year round❄️ The top ski spot in Northern England 📸 Photo Tips: Fewer people and great lighting in the morning! Backlit snow scenes look magical✨ Car covered in snow? Then create a "hibernating in the snow" creative shot!🚗❄️

Sanctuary Rainforest Resort and Spa – Dominica, expected to open in August 2026, will become SLH’s first member hotel in Dominica. This luxury resort with 72 rooms is inspired by the natural beauty of the Caribbean island, nestled in lush tropical rainforest adjacent to waterfalls, rivers, and stunning viewpoints. Palacio de Tavira, opening in August 2025, is the newest boutique hotel in the Algarve region. Originally a 19th-century noble residence with 36 rooms, it perfectly blends Portuguese elegance with Moorish style, located in the heart of Tavira’s historic district. SLH’s Asia-Pacific footprint continues to grow with the addition of Giang Son Lu Resort, SLH’s first member hotel in northern Vietnam. Hidden in a tranquil valley within the Trang An World Natural Heritage site, surrounded by rice paddies, rivers, and majestic karst landscapes, it creates a peaceful paradise in the Ninh Binh area. The hotel has joined SLH’s Thoughtful Selection series, integrating northern Vietnam’s cultural traditions, community care, and ecological conservation into its design and operations, embodying a sustainable luxury travel experience. Classic Urban Hotels Located in Bangkok, The Salil Private Villa is a unique private canal-side villa composed of three traditional Thai stilt houses. Guests can experience modern Thai living, enjoying a private and luxurious residential atmosphere, a saltwater pool, and spacious courtyards, all while being in the vibrant cultural center of Bangkok. Returning to the SLH brand, Hotel De Orangerie in Bruges was once a 15th-century Carthusian monastery and now exudes timeless classical charm with elegant canal views and a tranquil ambiance. Tallinn’s oldest hotel, Hotel Bern, will reopen in spring 2025, revitalized with a spa and 17 carefully designed rooms that blend history with modern elegance, offering guests a unique stay experience. Other small historic city hotels include The Feathered Nest in Woodstock, Oxfordshire; Santa Boka in Perast, Montenegro (part of the Kotor World Heritage area); and the Palazzo Artemide in Ortigia, Sicily, which captures 19th-century Baroque charm. These hotels are ideal for travelers seeking to escape the hustle and bustle, stroll cobblestone streets, and enjoy a leisurely holiday. Additional new urban hotel members include Hotel Les Armures in Geneva, Switzerland; Hotel Komana in Istanbul, Turkey; Hotel Belleclaire in New York, USA; and The Grayson Miami in Miami, USA. Mountain Retreats Hotel Saltus in the Dolomites is a wellness resort focused on mind and body healing, known for its modern, serene, and restrained design. Whether it’s the Forest Spa, customized wellness programs, infinity pool, or private terraces overlooking the magnificent Alps, every detail harmonizes with South Tyrol’s natural landscape. Nestled among Alpine peaks, Villa Honegg, built in 1905 and carefully restored, is a boutique hotel with only 25 rooms. Perched on a mountaintop, it offers breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne, with panoramic pools, a spa, forest trails, and outdoor exploration allowing guests to appreciate the region’s natural beauty from multiple perspectives. The St. Regis Cappadocia in Turkey sits atop a cliff, with natural stone rooms and terraces overlooking the famous “fairy chimney” formations, showcasing extraordinary cliff-top grandeur. Near Kandy in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, Taru Villas offers a tranquil atmosphere, elegant design, and stunning sunset dining experiences. Opening in 2024, Ziyun Xuanqing Hotel is tucked away in the serene Maoshan Tourist Resort in Jintan, Changzhou, embraced by the shimmering waters of Ziyun Lake. The hotel combines the elegance of Chinese courtyards with Japanese minimalist Zen, blending architecture gently with natural landscapes. It offers cultural experiences, mountain trails, tea garden views, and ancient temple visits, creating a refined and tranquil retreat. Selected Fine Wines SLH now offers exciting new accommodations in many of the world’s renowned wine regions. The Lion’s Lodge in South Africa’s famous Franschhoek region is a peaceful oasis within a quiet courtyard. This picturesque residence is just steps from the vibrant town center and features rooms with diverse styles, ideal for exclusive full-house bookings. Also joining SLH is the Leeu Collection’s French chateau hotel, a romantic property in central Franschhoek known for its exquisite dining at the Épice restaurant. In Italy’s northern Piedmont vineyards, the Marene Estate Hotel combines art, cuisine, and sports. Converted from a country estate, it is inspired by local artists and poets; the pool faces lush vineyards, and the winery and seasonal restaurant offer an authentic culinary journey. In the Chinese fairyland of Penglai, Longting Winery presents elegant Provençal style, combining boutique winery charm with resort hotel appeal. Its cellar, built into the hillside, offers guests an extraordinary wine tasting experience. Other new wine-themed hotels include the Castilla Valbuena Monastery Spa Hotel in Valladolid, Spain, converted from a 12th-century Cistercian monastery and located in the famous Ribera del Duero wine region; and Il Boscareto Resort & Spa in Langhe, Piedmont, Italy, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by rolling hills and charming villages, showcasing the unique character of Italy’s wine country. Luxury Golf Resorts For golf lovers seeking world-class courses, SLH’s two new members are not to be missed. Dunluce Villa on Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway coast is less than a mile from the globally renowned Royal Portrush Links Course, which has hosted The Open multiple times and is famous for its challenging design and stunning sea views. The hotel features a meticulously maintained 9-hole putting green and 35 elegant suites for guests to relax after a round. Scotland’s Seaton House is located in the world-famous St Andrews—the birthplace of golf—just steps from the Old Course where the first golf match was played 600 years ago, with many other renowned courses nearby. The hotel offers five-star Scottish hospitality, overlooking the magnificent West Sands Beach and adjacent to the historic university town. Immersive Nature Escapes For those seeking tranquility, privacy, and breathtaking natural scenery, Lille Island Lindenberg Hotel on Norway’s Hidra Island is the perfect choice. This private island hotel, opening in early 2025, has only four rooms, available for single bookings or exclusive island hire. Deeply integrated with the surrounding natural environment, it allows guests to explore pristine wilderness and pure Nordic coastal life. Pine Trees Hotel, on the edge of Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park, inspired by the cozy “Coorie” lifestyle, offers understated luxury nature retreats in the heart of Perthshire, inviting guests to reconnect with nature. Parkhotel Egerner Hoefe in Bavaria, Germany, sits lakeside and is renowned for its two-Michelin-starred restaurant Dichter, providing guests with a luxurious lake-view experience. On the French island of Corsica, A Mandria di Murtoli is surrounded by olive groves and citrus orchards, with stone cottages and Mediterranean panoramas creating a private and idyllic holiday paradise. Inn at Rancho Santa Fe in the mountains of San Diego, California, evokes vintage elegance and old-world charm, making it an ideal sunny holiday destination. From rugged nature to tropical paradise, Revivo Wellness Resort on the tranquil hills of Nusa Dua, Bali, is a sanctuary dedicated to mind-body healing and self-discovery, blending traditional wisdom with cutting-edge modern technology to offer tailored revitalizing experiences. In Wakayama Prefecture, south of Osaka, Japan, Gosen Resort Shirahama is located in a geothermal hot spring area where guests can enjoy healing time in hot spring pools while admiring ocean views. Other new countryside retreat members include Linthwaite House Hotel in Windermere, England. Other new resort hotel members include West Bay Club in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Road trip to the highlands and the Isle of Skye 🚗 📸 photos are limited. 🚘 We rented a car for 4D/3N via Budget Car Rental. Picked up: Waverley Station Edinburgh Price: roughly 100£ Tip: Dont accept upgrade/add-on offers— Highlands is a safe drive. Just follow the signs and drive safely. 🏨 We booked different hotels for 3 days. Cruachan Hotel Fort Williams 168£ Clarkie’s Corner Edinbane (AirBnB) Chialdron Hotel Beauly 145£ We opted to stay in a mini Castle/Manor style because why not? 🗺️ We started off from Edinburgh. STRILING: 📍Stirling Castle 📍William Wallace Monument 🍱 The Portcullis GLENCOE - FORT WILLIAMS 📍Hagrid’s hut 📍Ben Nevis view point (hike it if you’re staying long) 📍Glenfinnan Viaduct (Hogwarts train) 🛥️: Ferry from Mallaig to Armadale (online tickets a must) 💡It is faster and efficient and cheaper, too! 16.65£ ISLE OF SKYE - BEAULY - EDINBURGH 📍Armadale Castle 📍Dunvegan Castle 📍Neist Lighthouse 📍River Sligachan (Dont forget to dip your face) 📍The Man of Storr (Ready your legs and feet) 📍Jurassic Footprints 📍Fairy pools 📍Invergarry Castle 📍Urquhart Castle 📍Eilean Donan Castle 📍Dunottar Castle 📍Beauly Priory 📍Inverness for Lunch 📍Balmoral Castle And the list goes on and on and on…. Castles, scenic view, everyrhing about Scotland is just amazing. 💡 Do note to gas up every chance you get. Parkings are pretty much expensive. I advice you stay less than 15 mins in one spot and move on. So much to see, so little time! 🐮 Oh! Dont forget to hunt down those cute Highland cows! 🧥 Hard to OOTD! Always have a jacket with you. 👟 wear a comfortable hiking shoes 💷 cards are preferred / cash acceptable 🎟️ always check and book online for admission tickets 🍱 Restaurants close as early ad 3PM. Bring instant food! Lastly, I would recommend at least 5 days in the highlands! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ #historicallandmarks #castles #scotland #nature #unitedkingdom #localguides #roadtrip #harrypotter #familytrip #deliciousfood #travel

Stop: Cairngorms National Park, Highlands Cairngorms National Park, the largest national park in the United Kingdom, spans the heart of the Scottish Highlands, offering a landscape of majestic mountains, ancient forests, and sparkling lochs. The park is renowned for its dramatic scenery, where rugged granite peaks rise above glens and valleys, creating a playground for hikers, skiers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Its high plateaus and rolling hills provide panoramic vistas that capture the raw beauty of Scotland’s wilderness. The park is home to the Cairngorm mountains, where trails wind through heather-clad slopes, alpine meadows, and pine forests, leading to remote lochs and hidden waterfalls. Ancient Caledonian pinewoods shelter red squirrels, capercaillie, and a variety of bird species, while the higher plateaus provide habitats for mountain hares and ptarmigan. Outdoor activities abound, from gentle forest walks to challenging climbs, and in winter, the Cairngorms transform into a snow-covered playground for skiing and snowshoeing. Cairngorms National Park is not only a haven for nature but also a place of cultural and historical significance. Traditional Highland villages, historic castles, and distilleries dot the landscape, connecting visitors to Scotland’s heritage. Experiencing the park is to feel both the power and serenity of nature, where every trail, summit, and glen invites contemplation, adventure, and a profound appreciation of the wild Scottish Highlands. #mytraveldiary

#mytraveldiary The Cairngorms National Park is an awe-inspiring wilderness, and as the UK's largest national park, it feels incredibly vast and untouched. It's a land of high plateaux, ancient Caledonian pine forests, and a remarkable diversity of wildlife. We were lucky enough to spot red deer, and the park is also home to ospreys and golden eagles. The landscapes are dramatic, with granite tors and a subarctic climate on the highest ground. It’s a fantastic place for hiking, mountain biking, and in winter, skiing. The towns within the park, like Aviemore and Braemar, offer a warm welcome and a chance to experience authentic Highland culture. The sheer scale and rugged beauty of the Cairngorms make it a standout destination. #mytraveldiary #cairngorms

#europeonbudget Cairngorms National Park is Scotland’s wild heart, and spending a weekend here felt like stepping into a nature documentary. Towering Munros, mirror-like lochs, and ancient pine forests surrounded me at every turn. I hiked through Glenmore Forest, spotted red deer near Loch Morlich, and even glimpsed a golden eagle soaring overhead. The air was crisp, the silence profound, and the views—absolutely cinematic. Aviemore made a cozy base, with local whisky and hearty food to warm up after long walks. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, skiing in winter, or just soaking in the serenity, Cairngorms delivers pure Highland magic. I left with muddy boots, a full heart, and plans to return.

On the banks of the Dee River in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, lies the legendary Balmoral Castle 🎇. Since 1852, it has been a private property of the British royal family, steeped in profound historical and cultural significance. A beloved holiday destination for royals, it was one of Queen Elizabeth II's favorite retreats and her final residence before her passing in 2022. The castle showcases the distinctive Scottish Baronial Style, masterfully blending traditional Scottish castle architecture with Victorian elements. Its exterior features classic defensive structures—turrets, battlements, and towering spires stand majestically, as if whispering tales of the past 🏰. Inside, the elegantly decorated rooms display exquisite artworks and precious artifacts, offering visitors a journey through history. The vast Balmoral Estate spans approximately 50,000 acres (about 20,234 hectares), where forests, farmland, and gardens intertwine to create breathtaking natural scenery 🌳🌼. Stroll through the woods to breathe in the fresh air and embrace nature's tranquility, or wander the gardens to admire vibrant blooms and unwind in serenity. 📜 Travel Guide • 🌞 Opening Hours: The castle's visiting hours vary by season and royal schedules. Generally, parts of the estate are open to the public from April to August. Check the official website for details. • 💰 Ticket Info: Admission to the castle interior costs £110 per person. For £170, enjoy a royal-style afternoon tea featuring specialties like Balmoral Estate venison sausage rolls, cucumber cream cheese with black truffle sandwiches, and chocolate salted caramel canelés 🍰. • ❗ Visitor Notes: Phones must be surrendered before entry, and photography is prohibited. Tours are conducted in groups of 10, led by specially trained guides through 7 rooms, lasting about 50 minutes. • 🌄 Nearby Attractions: Explore the stunning Cairngorms National Park for hiking and Scotland's unique Highland landscapes. Visit the nearby town of Ballater to experience local culture and savor regional delicacies. • 🚗 Transportation: From Aberdeen, drive along the scenic A93 road or take public transport to Ballater, then transfer to a shuttle bus to the castle.

📅 Itinerary Day1：Edinburgh Castle + Royal Mile Day2: Princess Street + Exploring, check out the amazing thrift shops Day3: Balmoral Palace 🏨 Accommodation: Eden Locke Hotel 🍴 Food Recommendations: local historic Pubs and the hip coffee shops and brunch places! 📌 Tips: book tickets for the castle online, it is cheaper also try to book it at least one day before as the tickets get sold out frequently #edinburgh

Scottish Highland Sunset in Ballater Royal Deeside

#magicalxmastrip #scotland Scotland in the winter might sound like a chilly idea, but trust us—it’s one of the best times to visit! Here’s why this frosty adventure is worth braving the cold: 1. Fewer Crowds, More Charm The summer crowds might have disappeared, but Scotland’s beauty is no less stunning in the winter months. From the mist-covered mountains of Glencoe to the snow-dusted streets of Edinburgh, everything looks even more magical with fewer tourists around. You’ll have castles, lochs, and scenic vistas all to yourself—or at least without the long lines and selfie sticks. 2. Cozy Pubs and Whisky Tastings Winter in Scotland is all about getting cozy—and what better way to do that than with a warm drink in a traditional pub? Picture yourself nestled by a roaring fire, sipping on a glass of world-famous Scotch whisky. With hundreds of distilleries to choose from, winter is the perfect time for a whisky tour. After a chilly day exploring, nothing beats warming up with a dram of the good stuff. 3. Winter Wonderlands and Snow-Capped Peaks Scotland’s landscapes are even more enchanting in winter. The snow-covered peaks of the Highlands create a fairy-tale backdrop, and the frozen lochs look like something out of Narnia. It’s the perfect time for winter sports like skiing or snowboarding in the Cairngorms, or simply taking a scenic drive through the snowy countryside. Winter in Scotland is a whole new world of adventure—one where the only thing more magical than the landscapes is the opportunity to cozy up with a whisky and let the cold weather become part of the fun!

Here are ten reasons to visit Ballater in Scotland: 1. **Scenic Beauty**: Nestled in the Cairngorms National Park, Ballater offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the River Dee, perfect for nature lovers. 2. **Royal Connection**: Ballater is known for its royal connections, including the nearby Balmoral Castle, which is a favorite holiday retreat of the British royal family. 3. **Outdoor Activities**: The area provides a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, fishing, and golfing, catering to all adventure levels. 4. **Charming Village Atmosphere**: Ballater features a quaint village vibe with charming shops, cafes, and galleries, ideal for leisurely exploration. 5. **Historic Railway Station**: The historic Ballater railway station, once part of the Royal Deeside Railway, showcases the village's rich transport heritage. 6. **Local Markets**: The village hosts regular farmers' markets where you can sample and purchase local produce, crafts, and specialties. 7. **Cultural Heritage**: Ballater has a rich history and cultural heritage, with historical sites and informative exhibits that tell the story of the area. 8. **Wildlife Spotting**: The surrounding area is home to diverse wildlife, making it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. 9. **Local Distilleries**: The region is known for its whisky production, and nearby distilleries offer tours and tastings for those interested in Scotland’s national drink. 10. **Access to Cairngorms National Park**: Ballater serves as a gateway to the vast Cairngorms National Park, providing easy access to breathtaking landscapes and numerous trails. Visiting Ballater offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural experiences. #traveldiaries #ballater

Ballater is a picturesque village located in the Cairngorms National Park in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It lies approximately 40 miles west of Aberdeen and serves as a gateway to the park. Key features of Ballater include: 1. **Royal Connection**: Ballater is known for its connection to the British Royal Family. The village is close to Balmoral Castle, the Queen's Scottish residence. The Royal family has visited Ballater regularly, and the village has a Royal Deeside connection. 2. **Historic Architecture**: The village features charming stone-built buildings and traditional Scottish architecture. Notable buildings include the Ballater Old Royal Station, which has been converted into a museum. 3. **Outdoor Activities**: Ballater is a hub for outdoor activities in the Cairngorms, including hiking, cycling, and golfing. The nearby River Dee offers opportunities for fishing and other water sports. 4. **Local Amenities**: The village boasts a range of local shops, cafes, and eateries, providing a quaint, welcoming atmosphere for visitors. 5. **Scenic Beauty**: The surrounding landscape of Ballater includes stunning scenery, with rolling hills, forests, and the picturesque Deeside, making it an ideal spot for exploring the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands. #uktrip #ballater

Ballater, a village in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, is often appreciated for its picturesque setting and charming character. Nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, it offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and is a gateway to outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. Key aspects of Ballater include: 1. **Scenic Beauty**: The village is surrounded by natural beauty, with the River Dee flowing through and the Cairngorms providing a dramatic backdrop. 2. **Historic Charm**: Ballater features traditional Scottish architecture and a pleasant village atmosphere. Notable buildings include the Victorian railway station and several historic inns and shops. 3. **Royal Connections**: Ballater has strong connections to the British Royal Family, particularly with Balmoral Castle nearby, which has historically been a royal residence. 4. **Local Amenities**: The village offers a range of shops, cafes, and accommodations, contributing to its appeal as a welcoming destination for visitors. Overall, Ballater is valued for its scenic charm, historic appeal, and access to outdoor activities, making it a popular spot for both tourists and those seeking a quaint Scottish experience. #summerdestinations #Ballater #scotland

Today I went to the queen's favorite home, Balmoral Castle. Departing from Aberdeen, it took an hour and ten minutes to reach the castle, which is located next to a sunny village. The Dee River at the entrance is rushing and the sound of water is urgent. The end of August and the beginning of September are the days when the royal family comes for vacation, and the castle is not open to the public. I only walked up the mountain on the small road at the entrance. It is said that the villagers who used to live nearby would meet the queen who was walking here. Not far from the main entrance of the castle, there is a small private golf course and a meadow. I don't know if it's the place where the queen used to drive a tractor when she was young. This small castle has witnessed many major events of the current British royal family and carries countless warm moments of the queen. The time of her childhood should be the days she misses most in her life... In general, this is a good place for a day trip in Scotland, infinitely close to nature, and then reconcile with yourself, let your heart truly calm down

#freehotelstay Hilton Grand Vacations Resorts don’t have the best reputation in the states, but this location is top notch and one of the favorite Hilton hotels we have ever stayed at. What a great lodge / manor house atmosphere with beautiful large rooms that are well appointed and in exceptional condition. Service throughout the resort was top notch and the restaurant and bar areas were great as well. The bed was very comfortable and the shower was wonderful. Really the only negative is the slightly limited parking near the main building but everything else was perfect!