Rhinabaich Cottage lies 200 meters from the road to the west of Ballater, and offers spectacular south facing views of Royal Deeside across to Lochnagar.  Kirsten and I bought Rhinabaich Cottage in the Spring 2014 after quite a search.
We think it is a wee gem, and spend as much time as possible there. But when we are away, we would love it if friends and friends of friends could enjoy it too. So we have prepared it for occasional rent as a holiday home, with bedding etc. It sleeps 7-8 easily, has fully equipped modern kitchen, oil central heating, wifi, Freesat TV and two open log fires. And a table tennis table and BBQ for those glorious Aberdeenshire outdoor days, whatever time of year. It looks out over the Balmoral Estate, and enjoys all day sunshine, as it lies up the hill, facing south.
The local history is fascintaing. The cottage is one only remaining house of a former community which was abandoned in 1840. Some of the ruins remain on the hillside and up the glen., and it is quite easy to picture the life that once went on here.

It is a cosy and comfortable cottage, but I think its best aspect  is the view. or views. They really are breathtaking, down to the river Dee and up up to Lochnagar, with hills, meadows and ancient Caledonian forest in between. I hope the photos we have put up give an impression of the ever changing light and atmosphere.
While lying on its own, (with no neighbours to be bothered loud music), it is just 1 mile from the nearest pub, and 4 miles from Ballater: a pretty and vibrant local village which grew under Queen Victoria's initial patronage, and is now a foodie heaven, with all the amenities of a small town, despite being small and unspoilt.

Braemar is about 12 miles away, and leads up to the Linn of Dee, another local beauty spot, and skiiing at Glenshee.
We think there is something for everyone, including local and more challenging and spectacular walks and climbs,  but just watching the river, mountains and wildlife form the garden or the lounge- with a glass of something  nice-or maybe a warm aberdeenshire buttery in hand- is probably the best activity..