When the snow arrives the Cairngorms come alive with skiers. Two of Scotland’s five ski centres – Glenshee and Lecht – are only a 40min drive from Ballater.
Glenshee, which takes its name from the Gaelic ‘Glen of the Fairies’, lies on the A93 (the highest A road in the UK) near Braemar on the road from Blairgowrie and is the largest ski and snowboard area in Scotland. Glenshee covers an area of more than 2,000 acres extending across four mountains and three valleys and offers a choice of 36 runs, including the infamous Tiger, one of the most challenging black runs around and Glas Maol, the longest single run, providing a fantastic 2 kms of skiing. It also boats 21 lifts and tows. The centre is often open for longer due to their extensive snow-making facilities. A buzzing cafe serves hot drinks and food, while skis, boots, snowboards, snowblades, helmets and other kit are all available to hire.
