The Location
Banchory. Royal Deeside.
explorr takes place in Banchory, Royal Deeside, on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park. Vast forests, rolling hills and quiet gravel roads make this one of Scotland’s best outdoor playgrounds. It’s the perfect setting for a weekend of running, riding and festival atmosphere.
The Landscape
Aberdeenshire
Aberdeenshire is one of Scotland’s great outdoor regions, stretching from the Cairngorm Mountains to the North Sea coast. explorr takes place in Royal Deeside, a stunning corner of the region known for its forests, rivers and rolling hills. Quiet roads, gravel tracks and scenic trails make it the perfect setting for running, riding and exploring the outdoors.
Cairngorms National Park
Wild mountains, ancient forests and endless trails on Scotland’s largest national park doorstep.
Balmoral Castle
The Royal Family’s Scottish residence, set within beautiful Highland landscapes along the River Dee.
Aberdeenshire Coast
Rugged cliffs, fishing villages and sweeping beaches stretching along Scotland’s spectacular northeast coastline.
Dunnottar Castle
A dramatic clifftop fortress overlooking the North Sea, one of Scotland’s most iconic historic landmarks.
How to get here
Banchory is easy to reach from across Scotland and beyond. Whether you're driving, travelling by train or flying into nearby airports, getting to explorr is straightforward. Check our 'How to get here' page for guidance on parking, public transport and travel options to help you plan your journey.
Where to stay
Royal Deeside offers a wide range of accommodation options for your explorr weekend. Choose from hotels, guesthouses, self-catering cottages and local B&Bs throughout the area. You can also stay close to the action at our official explorr campsite, located near the Festival Village.
