Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel, Ballater ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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Key details

About the Hotel

Cambus O May Hotel, Ballater, United Kingdom, AB35 5SE

Near the Muir of Dinnet Nature Reserve

Great

8.5

/10

4.5

Loved by Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel guests

Fine house
Comfortable beds
Spacious apartment
Chilled atmosphere
Great quality food
Comfortable room

"This is the most charming Victorian country house in a gorgeous country setting, close to many things to see and do."

Kinsey from United States

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"The hotel is very charming, traditional and cosy located in its own private woodland with lots of areas to explore within the grounds!"

Marc C from United Kingdom

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"Period hunting lodge, immaculately clean, fabulous staff, wonderful views, great positon as the Cambus O May suspension bridge is directly opposite the hotel with easy access to local walks."

Gail from United Kingdom

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Location

Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel is located in Ballater, Scotland, just minutes from the Cairngorms National Park. Guests can explore the nearby trails and scenic landscapes or take a short drive to Balmoral Castle. It provides an excellent base for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.

Rooms

The hotel offers 12 en-suite guest rooms, each designed with comfort in mind. Guests will find a mix of single, double and twin accommodations, ensuring options for different travel needs. Many rooms provide stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Dining

Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel features an on-site restaurant that serves traditional Scottish cuisine. A selection of local produce is used to prepare the meals, showcasing the region's culinary heritage. A licensed bar offers a variety of beverages to complement the dining experience.

Activities

The hotel provides easy access to a range of outdoor activities, including golfing and fishing. Local attractions include the beautiful River Dee and the picturesque village of Ballater. For those seeking adventure, activities like pony trekking and wild swimming are nearby.

Wellness

While Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel does not offer a dedicated spa, nearby wellness facilities are available for guests seeking relaxation. The scenic outdoor environment allows for peaceful walks and moments of tranquility. Physiotherapy and massage services can be arranged at local wellness centers.

Highlights

Location: Cairngorms National Park, just minutes away

Rooms: 12 en-suite guest rooms with stunning views

Dining: Traditional Scottish cuisine served on-site

Activities: Access to golfing, fishing, and pony trekking

“Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel is a worthwhile escape, especially given its location amidst scenic landscapes near Ballater. The owners are committed to renovations, balancing contemporary expectations with the charm of a country house and making the hotel a unique proposition. I think it is a very good pick for couples and solo travellers looking for quiet and natural retreats.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.2/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningTasty Homecooked Food

Dinner was delicious! The chef excelled at soups and pies, and the portions were very generous.

Oliver from England

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Guest ParkingPlenty of Space

There's no need to worry about parking; plenty of space is available for all guests.

Mei from China

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BedroomUnique and Cosy

Each room is unique, comfortable and clean. Some offer stunning views of the mountains.

Hans from Netherlands

Review on

Sports & FitnessExplore the Grounds

Extensive grounds offer paths for walks. You can walk to the river or to the old railway.

Isabelle from France

Review on

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Select your room type

Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Deluxe Double Room

2 persons

1 King-size bed

Garden view

Heating

Fireplace

room details

Single Room

1 person

1 Single bed

Garden view

Shower

Heating

room details

One-Bedroom Annex Apartment

3 persons

1 Double bed

Garden view

Shower

Heating

room details

Family Room

4 persons

1 King-size bed

Garden view

Shower

Heating

room details

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Facilities

Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.3/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Pets allowed
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Ski storage
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Skiing
Hiking
Horseback riding
Cycling
Fishing

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Pet amenities available
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 terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room

Room features

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

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel Location

Cambus O May Hotel, Ballater, United Kingdom, AB35 5SE

Map view

Cambus O May Hotel, Ballater, United Kingdom, AB35 5SE

City landmarks

Nature reserve

Muir of Dinnet

1.3 mi

Landmark

Burn O'Vat

2.2 mi

Landmark

Monaltrie Monument

1.3 mi

Landmark

Burn o'Vat Visitors Centre

1.3 mi

Landmark

Bogingore

1.3 mi

Landmark

Cambus o'May Cheese Factory

1.4 mi

Landmark

Loch Kinord

1.7 mi

Landmark

Braehead of Tullich

1.8 mi

Landmark

Celtic Cross

1.7 mi

Landmark

Tullich, St Nathalan's Kirk

1.9 mi

Landmark

Old Kinord

2.1 mi

Landmark

Hut Circles

2.3 mi

Landmark

Dinnet

2.5 mi

Landmark

Dalmuick Camp

2.9 mi

Landmark

Cairngorm National Park Stone

2.9 mi

Landmark

You Are Now In The Highlands

2.9 mi

Gallery

The Ballater Gallery

3.4 mi

Church

Glenmuick Church

3.4 mi

Gallery

Larks Gallery

3.5 mi

Church

St Kentigern's Church

3.7 mi

Landmark

Crathie Church

4.1 mi

Landmark

Cambus O' May

7.5 mi

Nearby

Cambus O' May

700 ft

Explore Ballater

Local Experiences

Cambus O' May

5 minutes' walk

Picturesque area featuring stunning river views and walking paths dotted with vibrant flora, ideal for leisurely strolls.

Muir of Dinnet

25 minutes' walk

National Nature Reserve with diverse wildlife and scenic hiking trails. Offers unique landscapes and educational displays.

Burn o'Vat Visitors Centre

25 minutes' walk

Visitor center providing insights into the natural features and history of the area, popular for its beautiful riverside paths.

Monaltrie Monument

25 minutes' walk

Historic monument offering great views over Ballater. The site is significant for its connection to local heritage.

Hiking at Muir of Dinnet

25 minutes' walk

Scenic hiking trails through diverse terrains, suitable for all skill levels. Rentals available at nearby shops.

Cycling around Ballater

5 minutes' drive

Biking paths with stunning views; bike rental services are available in the village for easy access to adventure.

Yoga Retreats

5 minutes' drive

Relaxing yoga sessions offered in local studios, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Fishing on the Dee

5 minutes' drive

Tranquil fishing opportunities along the River Dee, popular with enthusiasts throughout the year. Permits required.

The Deeside Inn

5 minutes' walk

Cozy spot featuring traditional Scottish dishes and local ingredients. Reservations recommended, especially for dinner.

The Lost Gallery

5 minutes' drive

Artistic café with a focus on local art. Offers farm-to-table meals and a relaxed atmosphere, great for families.

The Fife Arms

10 minutes' drive

Stylish venue offering contemporary Scottish cuisine with an extensive whiskey selection. Reservations advisable.

The Auld Kirk

5 minutes' drive

Historic church turned restaurant featuring seasonal menus and cozy indoor seating. Vegetarian options available.

Ballater Golf Club

5 minutes' drive

Unique golf experience with stunning Scottish landscape views. Family-friendly with casual play options available.

Live Music at The Baillie

5 minutes' walk

Local venue hosting weekly live music events and open mic nights. A vibrant spot for community entertainment.

Ballater Community Theatre

5 minutes' drive

Offers a range of performances, from plays to family-friendly shows. Event schedule varies seasonally.

The Old Royal Station

5 minutes' walk

Historic site with exhibitions tracking the railway's influence on local culture, frequently hosts art exhibitions.

Getting around

City Centre

Ballater8 min · 3.3 mi

Airports

Aberdeen (ABZ)85 min · 35.2 mi

Dundee (DND)169 min · 69.7 mi

Bus

Bus stop6 min · 2.5 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-22:00

Check-out

from 06:00-11:00

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

The hotel Cambus O' May Traditional Highland provides visitors with a free full breakfast.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

Spanish

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Cambus O' May Traditional Highland Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Guests consistently praise the hotel's beautiful location near the Cambus O'May suspension bridge and Balmoral Castle, often highlighting the scenic views. The spacious rooms and bathrooms, along with comfortable beds, are frequently mentioned, and many appreciate having dinner available at the hotel. While the continental breakfast offers a wide selection, some guests have noted that they would have preferred a traditional cooked option.

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Review score

Based on 880 verified reviews

8.5/10

Great

91%

Recommend

Location

9.2/10

Staff

9.1/10

Facilities

8.3/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.4/10

Pros

Stunning location

Comfortable room

Enjoyable food

Cons

Dilapidated building

Uncomfortable bed

Mouldy shower

Lily from United Kingdom

Single

Deluxe Double Room Shower

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 30, 2025

9.0/10

vintage charm prevails

fine viewsshort walkdown bedding

The hotel sits away from the road offering amazing views. The cambus o'may suspension bridge is a short walk away. i slept well in a bed with down bedding. Balmoral castle is a short drive from here.

i found the building a little cold. it could use a bit more heating.

Rooms

9/10

The beautiful double room included a shower and sufficient space for luggage. Bed linen felt clean, and the mattress provided adequate support. The room had blackout curtains, useful for blocking the early morning light.

Facilities

8/10

Open fires provided a warm gathering space during the evening. The hotel offers parking directly on the grounds at no extra charge. Guests should be mindful of stairs.

Location

10/10

the hotel had views over the dee valley adding to a peaceful atmosphere. Birdsong was very audible, particularly in the morning. Walks in the surrounding countryside are readily accessible.

Dining

9/10

Breakfast included a coffee machine and a selection of breads. Fresh fruit and juices were available at breakfast. the dining area offers views of a red squirrel from the window.

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Reese from Canada

Couple

Deluxe Double Room Shower

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:November 25, 2025

6/10

good food selectioncleaning fluid smellbath plug

the staff was friendly. breakfast included a good selection of food.

Our room smelled strongly of cleaning chemicals. my eyes watered, it was not pleasant. the bathroom felt dated. The bath plug was brown.

0 Helpful