There’s something special about a day out that begins right in Blairgowrie and ends in one of Scotland’s most beautiful Highland villages — all without touching a car. With the launch of Ember’s brand‑new E11 electric route, guests at Ericht Holiday Lodges now have a brilliant, low‑impact way to explore Braemar and beyond.
The Journey: Quiet, Scenic, Effortless
Catching the E11 feels different from the moment it arrives. Ember’s electric coaches are modern, quiet and smooth, and the big windows make the journey part of the experience.
Leaving Blairgowrie, the road winds gently through farmland before opening into the wide, wild landscape of Glenshee. The climb towards the ski centre is spectacular — huge skies, rolling moorland, and that unmistakable sense of heading into the Highlands. When the road finally drops down towards Braemar, the views are breathtaking.
For guests who don’t fancy driving the A93, or who simply want to sit back and enjoy the scenery, this route is ideal.
Arriving in Braemar
The bus drops you right in the heart of the village, and from there everything is walkable. Braemar has a calm, tidy charm — granite buildings, mountain backdrops, and a sense of space that feels instantly relaxing.
Whether you’re visiting for a half‑day wander or a full day out, it’s an easy place to explore on foot.
Things to Do in Braemar
Braemar is small but full of character. Some highlights:
- Explore the village centre — independent shops, cafés and classic Deeside architecture.
- Visit Braemar Castle — a short walk from the village and packed with history.
- Walk along the River Dee — gentle, scenic and suitable for most abilities.
- Pop into the Fife Arms — even a quick look at the art and interiors is worth it.
- Enjoy a coffee or lunch — plenty of cosy spots using local produce.
- Try a short local walk — Morrone Birkwood, the Lion’s Face, or simple loops around the village.
It’s the kind of place where you can do a lot — or very little — and still feel like you’ve had a proper Highland day out.
đź‘‘ Royal Connections & Further Adventures
One of the best things about the new Ember E11 is that Braemar doesn’t have to be the end of the journey. For guests who want to explore further, the route continues on to Balmoral Castle and Ballater — two of the most iconic Royal Deeside destinations.
Balmoral Castle
The E11 stops close enough for visitors to reach Balmoral Castle, the beloved Royal residence set in beautiful grounds along the River Dee. Whether guests want to tour the estate, explore the gardens, or simply enjoy the scenery, it’s a unique opportunity to visit a place steeped in history without needing a car.
Ballater
Further along the route, Ballater offers a charming village atmosphere with Royal heritage woven into almost every shopfront. It’s a great stop for lunch, a wander, or a gentle riverside walk. For guests who want a full day out, combining Braemar and Ballater makes a brilliant itinerary.
🎿 Glenshee Ski Centre & Hillwalking
The E11 also stops at Glenshee Ski Centre, opening up a whole new set of possibilities:
- Winter skiing and snowboarding without the stress of driving in snowy conditions
- Summer hillwalking on the surrounding Munros and Corbetts
- Photography stops with panoramic views over the Cairngorm plateau
- A great option for guests who don’t want to drive the high pass
This makes the Ember E11 one of the most versatile public‑transport routes in the Highlands — perfect for adventure seekers as well as relaxed day‑trippers.
🌱 Why This Trip Fits Our Sustainable Tourism Values
The E11 is more than just a new bus route — it’s a meaningful step towards car‑free, low‑impact travel in rural Scotland. Ember’s electric coaches produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them one of the cleanest ways to reach the Cairngorms.
For our guests, it means:
- A relaxed, scenic journey without driving
- A greener way to explore the Highlands
- Easy access to Braemar, Balmoral, Ballater and Glenshee
- A connection to Aberdeen Airport for onward travel
It’s exactly the kind of sustainable adventure we love to recommend.
A Perfect Day Out from Ericht Holiday Lodges
Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple, a family, or someone who prefers not to drive mountain roads, the new Ember E11 makes Royal Deeside beautifully accessible. It’s a day out that combines scenery, history, good food and a real sense of place — all with a tiny carbon footprint.
If you’re staying with us and fancy trying the route, tickets are available at ember.to, remember to book ahead as the bus only stops to pick up or drop off if you book at lease 10 mins in advance. We’re always happy to help you plan your day.
