A STUNNING Aberdeenshire village has been crowned Scotland’s best staycation hotspot.
Braemar ranked as the number one destination for a holiday in Scotland this year, thanks to its gorgeous scenery and huge range of activities on offer.
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The iconic tourist destination, with a population of just 880, was among the top 10 in the UK and is a popular spot for those looking to visit close by Balmoral Castle and attend the famous Braemar Gathering, which the Royal Family are regulars at.
It also pulls in the crowds thanks to literally dozens of hiking trails, picturesque lochs, countryside, mountains and winter snowsports.
Clothing and equipment specialists Go Outdoors compiled destinations based on a number of factors including biking and hiking tours, average cost of local transport and Google searches for staycations.
Each town was given an overall score out of 10, and three Scottish destinations were included in the top 20, with Inverness scoring 5.95 out of 10, coming in at 14th and Edinburgh getting 6.65 and finishing at number 11.
But Braemar topped the trio and finished 10th overall with a score of 6.68 just ahead of the capital.
Rankings also included the number of things to do per 10,000, with Braemar posting 309 activities, far ahead of Edinburgh’s 36 and the 48 for Inverness.
And despite being far below on Google searches – Braemar having just 210 searches to Edinburgh’s 62,440 – the north-east village proves to be the perfect escape for those looking for an active break.
Go Outdoors’ said: “Not only does this holiday hotspot harbour the UK’s highest and most mountainous parish, but an outstanding natural landscape lies at its heart.
“Surrounded by beautiful scenery and rich history, Braemar offers year-round activities for everyone. There are approximately 309 things to do in the village.
“This includes activities such as walking, snowsports, wildlife watching, visiting Balmoral Castle and even attending the famous Braemar Gathering. It’s safe to say, there’s so much to explore in this beautiful village.”
The village, in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, was also listed as having lots of natural attractions for all the family including 24 wildlife tours, such as its Hillgoer’s guided walks and its bespoke off-road safaris.
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Betws-y-coed in Conwy, Wales was crowned the UK’s best holiday hotspot.
Go Outdoors reported: “This delightful village presents the perfect Welsh welcome. Perfect for holiday-goers, Betws-y-coed is a gateway to Snowdonia and its neighbouring towns.
“Inviting you into a distinctly magical setting surrounded by forests, walking trails such as the Cyrau Walk, and mountain bike tours on routes such as the Gwydir Mawr and Bach, there’s no denying that Betws-y-coed has plenty to offer. It’s therefore no surprise that this holiday destination grabs the top spot with a score of 8.40 out of 10.”
Ambleside in Cumbria held the second spot. It was described as: “A small town located in the Lake District, Ambleside has now become a major tourist destination.
“Not only is this top-rated holiday destination packed with many shops and restaurants, but it also has a great selection of places to stay.
“Hugely popular among walkers and climbers, this small town is nothing short of exceptional. There are plenty of walking trails to enjoy and take in the beautiful views and scenic paths. Perfect for outdoor explorers, it’s no wonder it takes second place with an overall score of 8.37.”
St Ives in Cambridgeshire finished third and Go Outdoors said: “St Ives is a stunning location filled with top-tier restaurants and foodie hotspots – you’ll be spoilt for choice.
“What’s more, this lovely town boasts a maze of narrow cobbled streets, independent shops and fisherman cottages.”
For more on the list see here
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