Hidden Scotland’s favourite Aberdeenshire spots
1 May 2020
Hidden Scotland founder Jack Cairney takes you through his favourite Aberdeenshire photographs. Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire will wait for you, #ABDNwillwait #stayathome.
Bullers of Buchan
Bullers of Buchan is a collapsed 245 foot sea cave, and can be found five miles north of Cruden Bay. There is a spectacular three mile walk along the cliffs which brings you to the dramatic ruins of Slains Castle.
Pennan
This picturesque fishing hamlet on the North East coast is a joy to visit. It consists of a single row of houses with the cliffs behind providing the perfect backdrop. In the summer months look out for the Coastal Cuppe, a shabby chic shack serving hot drinks and delicious cakes.
Dunnottar Castle
Probably my favourite coastal spot in Aberdeenshire. The stunning Dunnottar Castle is precariously perched atop a dramatic cliff-edge, providing the perfect place to escape and take in the wonders of both natural and man-made majesty. There is an enjoyable walk which starts at Stonehaven harbour and takes you past the war memorial and finally the castle itself.
Loch Muick, Aberdeenshire
Hidden in the shadows of Lochnagar, one of Scotland's finest mountains, it provides a fantastic walk around the loch. This circular route takes around 3 hours and takes in the impressive Glas-allt Shiel, built by Queen Victoria in 1868 after the death of her husband, Prince Albert.
Rattray Head
Take a trip along one of the many coastal walks on this isolated part of the Aberdeenshire coastline between Peterhead and Fraserburgh. Enjoy miles of deserted sand dunes, birdwatching, castles, stone circles, nature reserves, fishing villages and a view of Rattray Head Lighthouse. The lighthouse is a little offshore and can be reached at low tide only.
Fittie
This is a quaint little fishing village that dates back to medieval times. You can find it by walking along to the south end of the beach esplanade. The majority of the houses that you see today were built in the 19th century to re-house Aberdeen’s fishing community. Its name has changed slightly over the years starting with Futty. However when the houses were built in the 19th century there were two small communities, one was Fish Town and the other Footdee. Over the years the name Footdee has remained as the official name although it is known locally as Fittie. A Delightful village to wander through – a camera is a must.
Please remember that Fittie is a small residential community. Please respect the privacy of residents when you visit.
Old Aberdeen
Old Aberdeen is the area around Aberdeen University. Here you will find quaint cobbled streets, gardens, parks, museums and many historic buildings. Look out for St Machar’s Cathedral, Kings Museum, the Chanonry, Powis Gate, Cruickshank Botanic Gardens and Seaton Park.
Slains Castle
The ruins of Slains Castle can be found on the coast at Cruden Bay. The castle was originally built in 1597 by the Earl of Errol and has been rebuilt several times since until 1925 when Sir John Ellerman removed the roof to avoid paying taxes and left it to become the ruin you see today. It is said to be the inspiration for the setting of Count Dracula.
Balmoral Estate
In 1852 Prince Albert purchased the Balmoral Estate as a gift for Queen Victoria and it has been a royal holiday home ever since. Queen Victoria had cairns erected throughout the estate for each of her family and a pyramid for her beloved husband Albert after he died at the young age of only 42. Visitors can walk around this huge estate and enjoy the beautiful scenery, the cairns, pyramid and castle.
Craigievar Castle, Aberdeenshire
Our final spot is a truly fairytale setting. This enchanting castle was completed in 1626 and remained a family home until the 1960s. It is now managed by the National Trust for Scotland. Inside the castle you’ll find a fine collection of art and artifacts including Raeburns and Jamesones, armour, weapons and Jacobean woodwork. The grounds are just as interesting and enchanting with a variety of gardens and trails. A great day out for all ages.
Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire will wait for you, #ABDNwillwait #stayathome.