ThingsToDoPine woodland and a choice of lochan trails / NEAR BALLATER
Cambus o’May Forest
Choose one waymarked forest trail east of Ballater rather than setting out to cover every loop. The shorter lochan route gives a taste of the pine woodland; longer choices offer more time among trees and small stretches of water. Pack a simple picnic if that suits the weather, then return to the village for facilities instead of treating the forest as a serviced attraction.
Even the short Lochside Trail is graded moderate, with uneven gravel, slopes and rock steps. Short does not mean step-free.
The practical details
- Where to find it
- Cambus o’May, between Ballater and Dinnet, Aberdeenshire AB35 5SD
Directions and arrival information ↗ - Tickets and booking
- Walking is free; the forestry car park is charged. Check current site alerts and payment arrangements before travelling.
- Access and getting around
- FLS describes uneven surfaces, slopes and steps on these trails. Read the individual route description before choosing. There are no toilets here; the operator points visitors to Ballater or Aboyne.
Official access information ↗ - Visiting with children
- Pick a route that matches children’s walking ability and supervise beside lochans. Keep dogs close or on a lead to protect ground-nesting birds.
Practical information checked 15 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.
Make it part of your day
Allow 45 minutes–2 hours for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.
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