There are hundreds of kilometres of estate track around Braemar which can be followed on foot or on bike. Many of these are ancient Rights of Way, passing old crofts, mills and steadings and giving opportunity to delve into the rich history of the area. Several of the estate tracks are suitable for cycling and for the more adventurous multi-day mountain bike routes can be planned overnighting at remote bothies. There are over 30 Munros in the immediate vicinity of Braemar and it is an excellent centre for undertaking long distance walks to Speyside, the Angus Glens and westward to Blair Atholl. Regarding the latter, it can be arranged for buses to be laid on to assist walkers wishing to make a one way trip if there is sufficient demand.

Rock climbing in the area boasts some of the earliest recorded climbs in Scotland. The mountain crags of the Cairngorms, Lochnagar and the Creag an Dubh Loch are justifiably famous for hosting superb, well protected granite slabs and cracks. Lower crags also are popular, with the Pass of Ballater offering granite in a roadside location. In winter the climbing really comes into its own; Lochnagar and the remote corries in the Cairngorms offering challenging ice and winter routes that are truly world renowned.

A permanent orienteering course is now in place on Craig Coinnich. Give it ago go in your own time and at your own pace. Information packages and maps can be obtained, at a cost of £1.50, from
Braemar Pharmacy, Braemar Mountain Clothing, Braemar Youth Hostel and in Ballater at Lochnagar Leisure.

Glenshee Ski Centre, a 10 minute drive from Braemar, is Scotland's largest winter resort. Ski tourers and mountaineers enjoy the rolling plateaux around Glenshee, or head for the higher Cairngorm tops for classic traverses on their high summits. The Braemar area also hosts a core of telemark skiers; the area offers excellent touring and descents with a snow season that can last from November through to May.

The other popular skiing centre in the area is at the Lecht - half an hour's drive away from Braemar on the Tomintoul road. Apart from the skiing in the winter months this area is open all year for go-karting and other off road activities.

Traditional estate sporting activities take place all year round in the area. Mutual respect over the years has allowed walkers and climbers to co-operate with estate activities; this relationship is highly valued by all concerned.

Braemar has the highest 18 hole golf course in the UK where golf can be enjoyed on a very well maintained and interesting course amidst the spectacular scenery of upper Deeside. A new club house was recently opened which is fully licensed and provides excellent meals for members, guests and visitors. The club has just celebrated its centenary year and is proud to acknowledge Prince Andrew as its new patron. The cost for 18 holes, a day or week ticket is very reasonable and clubs and carts may be hired at the premises.

During the summer months putting may be enjoyed within the Games arena.

There is an excellent all weather bowling green in the village and visitors to the area may obtain keys to the premises from the Fife Hotel, the caravan site or from Lamonts Sporrans on the main street.

Pony trekking is available on the Balmoral estates, where several of the cairns erected to commemorate special events in the life of Queen Victoria can be visited. There is also pony trekking at Balmenach Farm, near Ballater and in the Angus Glens.

Permits for loch, pond and river fishing are available via the tourist information centre.