Wildlife safaris - with loan of Swarovski binoculars - proving to be major attraction at Balmoral Estate

Good chance of seeing range of special Scottish species in the hills of the famous Royal estate  

                                                      

BALMORAL Castle is definitely on to a winner with its two-hour nature safaris in the bird-rich grounds of the late Queen's favourite residence.

The twice-a-day treks aboard a Land Rover  are sold out for the rest of this month and well into spring.

Described as the Balmoral Expedition Tour, a ticket costs £350 ticket which covers  a maximum of six people.

Those on board are offered the loan of  binoculars manufactured by  Swarovski - one of the top brands in optics.

Says the Balmoral Castle website: "Through the manicured parkland and gardens in front of the castle, you travel through the estate to the old Caledonian pine forest, one of Scotland's most important habitats.

"After spending some time exploring this pristine area, we head out of the woods onto the open hillside.

"The views soon start to open up as we travel through the heather high up the flanks of Lochnagar, one of Scotland’s most famous mountains.

"Discover the intriguing life stories of the resident wildlife and learn about the conservation management that is currently underway to help protect some of the United Kingdom's rarest species.

"Although there are no guarantees, creatures regularly encountered include birds of prey, red squirrels, red deer, red grouse, black grouse, snow bunting and salmon.

"Swarovski binoculars are provided on the expedition tours. The outstanding quality of the binoculars allows you to get closer to the wildlife and landscapes of Balmoral.

"The tour then heads back to civilisation via the monuments and historical buildings of  Balmoral."

The ticket also allows admission to the grounds, gardens and the ballroom exhibition when they are open to the public. There is also a cafe and a gift shop at the castle.

Because of  the rarity of the species, the tour stays away from areas where capercaillies might nest, but there is always a chance that  a wandering bird might come into view.

On the occasions that she saw the bird, the Queen never failed to be entranced, and, like Prince Philip, she enthusiastically endorsed conservation initiatives on the estate. 

More information at: Balmoral Castle

Eagle's eye view of the famous castle and gardens

* Photos: Balmoral Castle website Balmoral Castle