Things to Do
There is a wonderful array of things to do and see when staying at Millbank
Below are some highlights of popular attractions, places and activities this region is famous for.
The Malt Whisky Trail
Follow the world-famous Malt Whisky Trail through Speyside to seven working distilleries, including a fascinating cooperage and a historic distillery. From Benromach to Dallas Dhu, a perfect time capsule of whisky-making; from Glen Moray in Elgin to Strathisla in Keith, home and heart of Chivas Regal; from the Glen Grant distillery to the Speyside Cooperage where real coopers work with incredible speed and skill; from Glenfiddich to The Glenlivet and the Cardhu distillery, Scotland’s whisky trail signposts lead you through the picturesque lush countryside of Speyside, the world’s favourite malt whisky region.
Cairngorm National Park
National Geographic voted the Cairngorms one of the “Top 20 places to visit in the world”
The Park is 40% larger than the Lake District and twice the size of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. The combination of soaring mountain peaks, wild moorland and tranquil lochs attract thousands of visitors every year. And it’s easy to see why Britain’s largest national park is so popular, as there is something for everyone to enjoy in this protected landscape. The Park is the best place to spot a golden eagle, capercaillie, badger, Scottish crossbill, red squirrel, pine martin, water vole or wild cat to name just a few.
The ever changing views from the spectacular mountain ridges await those with plenty of energy and a spirit for adventure. With four out of Scotland’s five highest mountains being located within the Park – and 52 summits coming in at over 900 metres – walkers will not be left disappointed. However, a slower pace can also be found on the lower slopes where the forests contain remnants of the original Caledonian pine forest and include a rare kind of pine wood found only in Scotland and Norway.
This unspoilt countryside is the place to come for many outdoor pursuits, whether it’s mountain biking, canoeing, cycling or climbing, skiing, fishing, shooting or stalking. And undertaking your favourite sport in such a stunning backdrop truly captures the imagination.
The Park has a rich cultural heritage with castle, fortified houses and estates waiting to be explored. Hundreds of countryside events, outdoor activities, guided walks and talks take place each year.
The Castle Trail
Millbank Cottage is close to many of the castles on the famous trail with 3 within about a half hour drive. Closest is the Drumin Castle ruins, thought to date back to the 14th century, the castle was one of three owned by Alexander Stewart, son of King Robert II. In a striking moorland setting, Corgarff’s medieval tower house, built in the mid-16th century, is surrounded by a distinctive 18th-century star shaped perimeter wall. Balvenie Castle is one the oldest stone castles in Scotland and has a formidable curtain wall. Originally the seat of the powerful Comyn Earls of Buchan it later became the home of John Stewart, Earl of Atholl. Huntly Castle is majestically sited where the rivers Bogie and Deveron join, on the outskirts of the pretty market town of Huntly. Remarkable for its splendid architecture, Huntly Castle served as a baronial residence for five centuries. Also close by and situated on the banks of the River Avon, Ballindalloch Castle has been the home of the Macpherson-Grant family since it was finished in 1546 and today is one of the finest surviving examples of a classic Scottish baronial castle.
The Moray Coastal Trail
The Moray Coast is only an hour’s drive from the cottages and with its marvellous landscapes from rugged cliffs, caves and sheltered coves to fisher-town harbours and sweeping stretches of sandy beaches, it has a coastline alive with wildlife that makes it the envy of many other regions in Britain. The coastline and settlements of Moray are linked by a waymarked coastal trail of approximately 50 miles from Findhorn to Cullen and all the places between. Below are some examples of this remarkable Scottish scenery.
Glenlivet Estate
Whether you’re planning to visit on your own, with loved ones, family, friends, or as a group – we really do have something for everyone. Set within the vast rolling landscape of the Cairngorms National Park, Glenlivet Estate is full of memorable experiences – whatever your age, interests or ability.
Walk Highlands
Whether you’re planning to visit on your own, with loved ones, family, friends, or as a group – we really do have something for everyone. Set within the vast rolling landscape of the Cairngorms National Park, Glenlivet Estate is full of memorable experiences – whatever your age, interests or ability.
