Your guide to exploring the wonderful Aberdeenshire Coast
28 August 2024
Whether you’re solo travelling, catching up with a friend or aiming to spend classic 1:1 time with loved ones, the coasts of Aberdeenshire are the perfect destinations to escape reality and unwind for the weekend.
This blog will take you through some of Aberdeenshire’s most treasured coastal spots, including impeccable locations to explore, relax and take in the mesmerizing surroundings.
Coastline Adventures
Think rugged coastlines, open fresh air and those picturesque moments that don’t quite feel like reality. Aberdeenshire offers just that, an array of seaside towns and villages filled with natural beauty and coastal charm. Let’s dive right in!
Stonehaven
Located on the South of the Aberdeenshire coast lies Stonehaven, a remarkable spot that has one of the region’s most notable visitor attractions, Dunnottar Castle.
The town’s harbour is bursting with life and is full of great local spots for all you foodie lovers to sit back, relax and take in the ocean views. From local favourites such as The Bay Fish and Chips and Aunty Betty's, Stonehaven offers a wonderful opportunity to try a range of fresh local produce.
Head back in time and visit Stonehaven’s oldest building, The Tolbooth Museum. Once a former prison, visitors can explore Stonehaven’s deep heritage and experience the original sights from when it served inmates.
Don’t let your coastal retreat be affected by the weather! With Stonehaven Heated Open-Air Pool visitors can enjoy both the golden hours of summer, and the crisp fresh air of the winter months, whilst splashing around and staying warm.
Portsoy
Known as the ‘Dolphin Coast’, Portsoy is a remarkably cherished town on the North Coast of Aberdeenshire, admired for it’s picture perfect harbour that was established in the 17th century.
Every summer, over the course of two days, Portsoy stages the Scottish Traditional Boat Festival which welcomes thousands of visitors each year to celebrate boat building, restoration and sailing. Throughout the festival, visitors can expect to visit a number of tempting fayres including a variety of tasty treats, homemade crafts and bespoke art and jewellery.
That’s not the only thing that attracts visitors… Portsoy is home to the famous Portsoy Ice Cream. Think vanilla, strawberry daiquiri sorbet or a classic chocolate lovers dream, there is a flavour for everyone!
To learn more about the history of the village including the locals, it’s deep-rooted connection to salmon fishing and boatbuilding, visitors are advised to stop by The Salmon Bothy Museum. Once a former working Salmon House, the museum entry is free of charge and is an ideal location to discover Portsoy’s strong past and how it contributes to the village it is today.
Gardenstown
Located on the North Coast of Aberdeenshire, you will find Gardenstown, a quaint fishing village bursting with Scottish heritage and stunning cliff sides. Whilst visiting this serene location, visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the water’s edge, providing a perfect setting to catch up with a friend or to explore with the family.
Dive deep into the town’s history at the Gardenstown Heritage Centre and discover that it grew vertically towards the sea with houses overlooking the harbour, which now provide a number of remarkable views of the bay.
Known for it’s profound connection to art and culture, Gardenstown is an ideal location to purchase quirky collectable and vintage items. Visit Happy Days, a small independent business in the heart of Gardenstown, providing a range of locally crafted artwork and furniture from the 1970s and Victorian period.
Crovie
Explore the coastal path that leads Gardenstown to Crovie, a small 18th century fishing village that dates back to the days when the sea was the world’s main form of transportation.
As Europe’s best preserved fishing village, Crovie serves visitors a unique experience by diminishing the strains of city life as you relax by the sea spotting dolphins and sea birds. A truly unforgettable experience awaits, where Crovie’s breathtaking coastal beauty allows you to view the small village from a number of cliffs, coves and beaches.
Acting as the perfect day trip, visitors of Crovie are recommended to visit the RSPB Troup Head, to discover Scotland’s largest mainland gannet colony.
Spoilt for choice!
With endless locations to unwind and explore, start planning your coastal retreat today!
Don’t forget to view our What's On section to witness the number of events taking place across Aberdeenshire’s coast and tag @VisitABDN on socials or use our hashtags #VisitABDN or #BeautifulABDN to let us see where you explore!