WALKs in aberdeenshire

The oldest part of Gardenstown, Seatown, is picturesque with fisherman's cottages  and a lovely sandy beach. This walk links Gardenstown by the old shore route to the quaint hamlet of Crovie before returning along a new clifftop path. 

Step by step guide of walk -  Gardenstown and Crovie 

Walk through Seatown passing the fishermen's  cottages and over the beach before following a grassy path to the ruinous churchyard, St John's.  There are stunning views back to Gardenstown and the bay. 

Step by step guide of walk -  St John's Church from Gardenstown 

Cullykhan is situated between Gardenstown and Pennan off the B9031.  Fort Fiddes (Castle Point) is an ancient coastal fort above Cullykhan Bay, first used in prehistoric times. Protected by sheer cliffs and earthworks, it later served as a coastal lookout, and is now a Scheduled Ancient Monument with superb sea views. Cullykhan beach is sheltered by cliffs and is a lovely place to relax. 

Step by step guide of walk - Cullykhan Bay and Fort Fiddes 

RSPB Troup Head Walk — A stunning coastal walk through an RSPB nature reserve to dramatic clifftops overlooking Scotland’s largest mainland gannet colony, where thousands of seabirds (including gannets, kittiwakes, guillemots and puffins) nest and soar above panoramic North Sea views. The path offers spectacular scenery and wildlife-watching opportunities year-round.

Step by step guide of walk -  Troup Head, near Pennan 

 A classic Aberdeenshire hill walk up Mither Tap, the most iconic peak of the Bennachie ridge near Inverurie. Starting from the Bennachie Visitor Centre, the route climbs steeply through woodland to the rocky summit at 518 m, offering panoramic views over the surrounding countryside, the North Sea and the Cairngorms beyond. Typically takes 2.5–4 hours out and back, depending on your pace and route choice. 

Choice of three routes -  Bennachie Visitor Centre | Forestry and Land Scotland 

The Balmoral Cairns walk is a moderate circular forest hike taking you through woodland and The Balmoral Estate tracks to visit a series of stone cairns erected by Queen Victoria and later monarchs. The cairns commemorate members of the British royal family and significant events in their lives.

The most famous of these is Prince Albert’s Cairn — a large pyramid‑shaped memorial built in 1862 by Queen Victoria in memory of her husband.  This walk is not advised when the Royal Family is in residence which is usually during August and September.

Step by step guide - The Balmoral Cairns, Balmoral, Crathie

Stroll along the golden sands of Aberdeen Beach and soak in the fresh North Sea air on this easy, scenic promenade walk. Just a short distance from the city centre, the route leads you from the lively beach, dotted with cafés and traditional seaside attractions, to the historic fishing village of Footdee, locally known as Fittie.  Explore cobbled streets lined with colourful cottages, take in views across the harbour, and enjoy a peaceful seaside escape . With mostly paved paths and flat terrain, this walk is accessible for all and can easily be extended along the beach or harbour for a longer adventure. 

Step  by step guide -  Footdee and Aberdeen harbour