We really enjoyed our stay at Darroch Learg with amazing food and very welcoming staff however we felt the accommodation was massively overpriced for what you got. The room are very dated, cold with a tv that didn't really work. My advise would be to stay at the craigendarroch which at least you have access to leisure facilities and more reasonably priced and book a table in the Darroch Learg for dinner.

We stayed at the Darroch Learg on a one night dinner, bed and breakfast arrangement. We received an upgrade to a premier room with an outstanding view so I felt that the £230 we paid represented good value. We love quality small country house hotels in beautiful locations and this one certainly hit the mark. I particularly loved the log fire in the sitting room and the sense of complete relaxation I enjoyed during my stay. The food was good but not outstanding.

I have returned with my husband, and now our baby daughter, to this hotel many times, and each time, I return feeling happy. It is not perfect - our bathroom needed a bit of T&C - but the owners (the Franks) care, and that shows in everything they do.

The food is excellent, and the wine list is one of the absolute best in the entire British Isles, and I don't think can be beaten for value anywhere. (I work in the wine industry, so I speak in this case from experience.)

Our bed was very comfortable, and the room a good size, with a fantastic view to Lochnagar. Since the baby monitor's range wouldn't stretch to the dining room, the hotel staff kindly listened for her at reception while we had a peaceful (and delicious) dinner.

We can't wait to go back.

We got married in Ballater in November 2008, and stayed for a night in the Darroch Learg the night after our Wedding. It was fantastic, the rooms were luxurious, the staff were friendly, the Breakfast was amazing!

The entire Hotel had a wonderful homely feel, it was welcoming in every way possible! The owners even gave us two beautiful Champagne Glasses as a momento of our night there!

Next time we visit Ballater, we fully intend to eat at their fabulous Restaurant, however we didn't have the chance on our last visit!