Bridge of Gairn

Many thanks to to the folks at Bridgend Of Gairn Farm  for facilitating this camera's location and to Aberdeenshire Council for capitally funding its installation in partnership with The River Dee Trust & Dee District Salmon Fishery Board. The Gairn originates in the eastern Grampians on the east flank of Ben Avon and then  flows in a southeastern direction and takes up two mountain ranges after about three kilometers. It follows the valley Glengairn six kilometers to the north east and then flows eastwards for about 17 km. Lastly, the Gairn gradually turns south-east, flows through the A93 at Bridge of Gairn and finally flows into the Dee approximately 3.5 km northwest of Ballater. Ballater, located in the scenic Royal Deeside, serves as a prominent hub for tourism, offering convenient access to the renowned Cairngorms and Balmoral Castle. Within the village, visitors can find two establishments dedicated to bicycle rentals.Previously serving as a visitor center and housing an authentic replica of a royal carriage, the historic Ballater station, which also housed Queen Victoria's waiting room, experienced severe devastation as a result of a fire in 2015. However, a comprehensive reconstruction project was initiated, encompassing the restoration of the station, a bistro, and an adjacent visitor center. This ambitious endeavor reached its completion in the fall of 2018. Balmoral Castle, a significant landmark, is conveniently situated a mere ten-minute drive away from the village.For enthusiasts of outdoor exploration, Ballater provides a plethora of scenic walking trails. Among these, the peculiarly shaped hill known as Craigendarroch offers an accessible option for leisurely strolls. Approximately 12 kilometers (7 miles) southwest of Ballater lies Loch Muick, serving as a starting point for seasoned hikers embarking on the ascent of the prominent mountain, Lochnagar. Due to the abundance of Munroes in the vicinity, Ballater serves as a base for numerous challenging treks.Ballater boasts an assortment of well-documented cycling routes that extend into the surrounding areas, including the renowned Deeside Way and several popular mountain biking trails. Experienced cyclists are enticed by the trail offerings within the Cambus o'May forests.The meandering River Dee gracefully traverses through Ballater, renowned for its excellent salmon fishing opportunities.Noteworthy events taking place in the town include the Ballater Walking Festival, held annually in May, which attracts hillwalkers of all proficiency levels who partake in guided excursions across the enchanting hills and valleys of the eastern Cairngorms. The Ballater Boules Challenge, held on alternate Sundays between November and March, presents an alternative sporting activity when the weather conditions are unsuitable for traditional curling. Furthermore, Victoria Week, an annual celebration held in August, pays homage to Ballater's historical ties with Queen Victoria and Balmoral Castle.A whimsical online newspaper known as the Ballater Bugle serves as the village's own distinctive media outlet.Notably, a group of five industrious Ballater residents recently undertook the refurbishment of the Automobile Association's Patrol Box located at Cambus o'May. This historical call box, one of an estimated 8 to 10 remaining intact in Great Britain, stands as a testament to their dedication and preservation efforts.