About us – Braemar Highland Experience

Our story

“I have deep roots in the Braemar community – my ancestors are mentioned in the earliest records. They were shepherds and blacksmiths, and many of my relatives still live in the village.“

Katy’s great-grandfather in 1922 on the road to Glenshee

Katy

Braemar has always been a place of fun packed adventures for me. As a young child I came here each summer to visit family and to enjoy running in the hills and taking photos of the stunning surroundings.

My early career was spent as a professional orchestral musician and music educator. It’s wonderful to be back in Braemar, sharing my passion for the outdoors through Braemar Highland Experience.

I am qualified as a Hill and Moorland Leader to guide people into the hills and glens of Scotland, and am a member of the Association of Foragers.

I lead the whisky academy for Artfarm, which includes training staff at the Fife Arms in Braemar.

Favourite places
Punchbowl, Gelder Shiel, Colonsay

Julian

Having lived in many countries, I settled in Scotland for my academic work and didn’t want to leave again. The people, culture, wildlife and landscapes combine to make it an intoxicating place.

I am a member of the Braemar Mountain Rescue Team and their training officer. I also deliver 4×4 training on behalf of Scottish Mountain Rescue. As a qualified Mountain Leader I am permitted to guide clients on the highest mountains in the UK.

I am an honorary professor, working with companies and governments in the field of energy economics. From Dutch stock, I’ve spent time studying in France and, whilst fluent in both languages, I am still working on bird names and geological terms in them!

Favourite places
Dubh Loch, Angel’s Peak, Torridon

Leaving our careers behind as a musician and an academic we moved to Braemar in 2014 to develop our award-winning guesthouse, Callater Lodge. After running two businesses side-by-side we decided in 2017 to focus on Braemar Highland Experience, receiving a Visit Scotland 5* award the following year.

Braemar is a vibrant small community, an unspoilt Highland village nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms. We are proud to share our passion for Royal Deeside and Scotland with our clients. There is no place we would rather be.

Julian’s organisation was ideal, good communication up front with a clear discussion of objectives, alternatives and appropriate kit.

The walk itself was wonderful, a route full of great views and brought further to life with stories about the mountain and its wildlife, and a few tales from mountain rescue too. I can really recommend people following my footsteps with this excellent and experienced guide.”

– John M. (Tripadvisor)