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About The Itinerary
Get your adrenaline pumping with this three-day itinerary packed with outdoor thrills and breathtaking scenery across Aberdeenshire. Lace up your boots for an invigorating hillwalk in the Cairngorms, dive into the wild waters for an unforgettable swim and reward your efforts with hearty local dining in Ballater. Take on the region’s exhilarating mountain biking trails before rounding off your adventure with a grand paddleboarding tour in Stonehaven, complete with a relaxing wood-fired sauna and a well-deserved seafood feast by the shore.
Itinerary Info
Duration:
72 hours
Itinerary Schedule
Hillwalking in Lochnagar
Situated in the stunning estate of Balmoral in Ballater, Lochnagar is one of the most celebrated Munros. Its most splendid feature being the great North-east corrie. With spectacular views, Lochnagar dominates Deeside. Lochnagar is one of five Munros that forms a horseshoe around Loch Muick - if you are an experienced walker and you feel like challenging yourself all five are doable in one day! Why not pack a picnic? It’s certainly a meal with a view.
Take a Dip in Loch Muick
After a long day of walking and breaking a sweat we recommend finishing your day with a cold-water dip. Be responsible and take care when doing so.
Dine and Unwind at Balmoral Arms
After a day on the hills, sample the true taste of Scotland with only the finest local produce. From the Ghillies Bar for a sample of local ales to hearty dishes at the 1845, Balmoral Arms is a winner amongst visitors. Finish your evening snuggled up on the sofa with a dram.
Stay in a Highland Bothy
Beautifully situated in an unspoilt area of a Scottish Highland estate, Cairngorm Bothies offers comfortable, self-catering accommodation that lets you truly escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature. Each bothy provides a cosy base to relax and revitalise, with nearby shops where you can stock up on local produce for hearty breakfasts and leisurely lunches.
Mountain Biking Adventures Across Aberdeenshire
After a chilled morning at the lodges it’s time to get the blood pumping. No matter your abilities, there are trails for everyone! Taking you from winding paths through historic landmark locations to enduring routes through forestry and mountainous landscapes. We recommend Tarland Trails (Drummy Woods or Pittenderich), Ballater Circular Route or Cambus O’May. Each trail is just a short drive from your accommodation, giving you a full day of shredding!
Dine in Comfort at Clachan Gril
This Deeside favourite provides a tranquil and comfortable dining atmosphere right along the River Dee. With stunning views, cosy dining and quality Scottish fare it’s the perfect way to end a busy day. Why not rest those muscles with a tipple at their newly renovated bar before heading back to the bothies for a peaceful sleep.
Paddleboarding Around Stonehaven Harbour
Your last day of activities will start with a journey to the coast! So grab your car snacks, you’re having lunch on the road. The ultimate paddleboarding tour will take you on a truly spectacular trip through hidden waterfalls, coves, caves and the astonishing cliffs of RSPB Fowlsheugh Nature Reserve. Your time will be filled with magical views of not only the surrounding scenery but seabirds, seals, dolphins and minke whales if you’re lucky!
Wood-Fired Sauna at Stonehaven Harbour
Unwind after your coastal adventures with an authentic Estonian-style wood-fired sauna, set in a converted horse box at Stonehaven Harbour. Let the soothing heat and natural aromas ease muscle tension, flush out toxins, and leave your body and mind feeling completely revitalised.
Seaside Flavours
If you are looking for a more laidback dining experience, head on over to Seafood Bothy where you can fill up on the freshest seafood. Think mouthwatering lobster rolls and crab meat wraps. Or fancying some fine dining? Head to Tolbooth Restaurant, one of Stonehaven’s newly renovated eateries. With its eclectic menu, it’s sure to tantalise the tastebuds.
Stay by the Sea
End your action-packed trip in comfort at Bayview Apartments, where stunning beachfront views from your private balcony create the perfect spot to unwind. Sit back, relax, and watch the sun set over the coast with your loved ones before heading home.