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Coastal Trail and Explore the Delights of This Incredible Part of Bordering Cullen Golf Club, Follow One Project

01 Cullen Beach B1 09 Boatshed B1 17 D1 25 Maggie’s Hoosie, Inverallochy F1 Stroll along the golden sands of Cullen Home to a team of enthusiastic Crovie (pronounced Crivie) is a This is no ordinary step back in time; one of the finest in the world beach and admire the striking natural volunteers with a passion for boat collection of houses appearing to Maggie’s Hoosie has been lovingly rock formation of the Three Kings, building, you are certain of a friendly almost emerge from the crisp North restored to represent the life of the perfect for photo opportunities. The welcome. Come along and work on Sea, sandwiched between water and fisherwoman who lived there, and Did you know that parts of ’s coastline were rated as one of the most scenic in the world by beach is renowned for its excellent a boat building or woodwork project cliffs. There’s nowhere else on earth her parents and siblings before her. National Geographic magazine? water quality and is ideal for paddling you’ve always dreamed of bringing quite like this enchanting village – it And when we say restored: picture or, for the more adventurous, to fruition, or join the team to lend a truly is a spellbinding place. As well as earthen floors, no electricity or swimming. Play a round of golf at the hand whilst they work on their latest being the best preserved fishing village running water and four walls that Jump in the car and follow the 165-mile signposted Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail and explore the delights of this incredible part of bordering Cullen Golf Club, follow one project. Admission is free. Opening in , it also has the distinction of have seen a lot of work - preparing of the many coastal walks or trails, or times vary but there are volunteers having the narrowest space between and baiting fishing lines, curing, for yourself. You’ll discover dramatic clifftop walks, captivating coves, beautiful nature reserves with an abundance of try to spot dolphins from the shore. there most days. shore and cliff of any Scottish village. smoking, salting and drying fish. Postcode: AB56 4AG Postcode: AB45 2QQ Postcode: AB43 9HG wildlife, expansive beaches, charming towns and villages, world-class links and parkland golf courses and much more besides. Tel: 01542 840830 Tel: 01261 842951 Tel: 01346 514761 The map overleaf will assist in leading you along the Aberdeenshire and . Make sure you stop off at some of the fascinating attractions and beauty spots along the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail – we’ve highlighted 59 within this guide to get you started, but there so many more to discover! Look out for the brown and white Coastal Trail road signs that will help guide 02 Cullen Sea School B1 10 Portsoy Salmon Bothy B1 18 RSPB Head, by D1 26 F2 The Cullen Sea School is a centre Uncover the fascinating fishing Soak up the awesome sight of thousands Regardless of season, there’s you along the magnificent Aberdeenshire coastline. for small boat building, sailing, traditions of the area at the Salmon of and hear their piercing cries. always something fascinating to see coastal rowing, kayaking, canoeing Bothy Museum, housed in a charming Troup Head is the only mainland gannet at RSPB Loch of Strathbeg. During and training courses. It is a warm, limewashed building which dates back colony in Scotland and is also home to spring and summer, you might spot Find out more about the Aberdeenshire and Banffshire Coast at welcoming place to enjoy all types over 180 years. You’ll find a range of species such as guillemots, , terns and wading birds raising www.visitabdn.com/what-to-do/aberdeenshire-coast of water-based activities and make exhibits in the former ice chambers. and puffins. Follow the clifftop path their young, while in the autumn new friends along the way. You do Learn about the town’s harbours, its and look out to sea where you might and winter months you can marvel not have to be a boat owner or have industry, trade and the salmon fishing spot dolphins, porpoises, seals and at the spectacle of thousands of had any prior sailing experience operations, and get a unique insight into even minke whales. Explore the rocky pink-footed geese, which arrive to become a member or attend a the geography, history and culture of coastline on a boat tour – there are from Iceland. The reserve has three course at the club. Portsoy. In the bothy, trace your family three operators that depart from Banff, hides and an observation room in Postcode: AB56 4AG tree with trained genealogists and Macduff and . the visitor centre. discover your connections to the area. Tel: 01542 840830 Directions: the reserve is located between Postcode: AB42 3HA Postcode: AB45 2SS Pennan and Gardenstown on the B9031 Tel: 01346 532017 Tel: 01261 842951

03 Logie Head B1 11 Marina C1 19 Pennan D1 27 F2 Logie Head, near Cullen, is 92 ft above Whitehills Marina is an award-winning Pennan is a rugged village with The lighthouse tower is listed as a sea level and is a climbers’ paradise. village-owned marina. Whitehills is a colourful houses built gable-end building of Architectural/Historical However if you are not into climbing former highly successful commercial to the sea. Pennan’s most famous interest. The light was established in beach then the walk from either Cullen or fishing port on the Firth which landmark is a traditional red 1895, 46 years after Alan Stevenson, had is also stunning, transformed itself to a friendly and telephone box which was used as first undertaken to carry out a series but do be careful, as the paths do popular small marina and is currently the backdrop to Bill Forsyth’s movie of experiments to ascertain whether become narrow and steep and can the only harbour catering for leisure blockbuster, Local Hero. Everyone Rattray Briggs could be effectively be hazardous in bad weather. Nearby sailors. It is a great base for exploring who comes to visit makes a call marked by a red arc shown from the see the Giant’s Steps, which a local north east Banffshire. from the iconic phone box where flashing light of Ness. Stevenson Delight in our man built in 1989, without the aid of Postcode: AB45 2NQ oil executive Mac would connect to built a rock tower in two parts, the lower lifting gear or mechanical aids. his Texas HQ, and drop his coins in containing a foghorn and engine-room, Rock formations and nesting colonies when he heard the telephone pips! and the upper the lightkeepers’ room Coastal Larder of seabirds provide points of interest. and lantern. It was the first time that a first-class siren fog signal had been Discover the region’s abundant natural larder and make installed in a rock lighthouse. sure you sample some of the fruits of the . In traditional fishing towns you can see fresh catches being 04 Sunnyside Beach B1 12 Banff Beach C1 20 Beach E1 28 Heritage Centre F2 Located in a secluded bay between Explore Banff beach and gaze out Explore the shoreline of New Buchanhaven Heritage Centre, was landed in harbours. Cullen and , this beautiful to the sea where you may be able Aberdour beach and wander through originally set up to safeguard the sandy beach boasts amazing to spot some dolphins, or the the impressive caves. Set history of the former fishing village. Tuck into a traditional supper from the Aberdeenshire’s award- views from the cliffs. Explore this resident colony of puffins! There back from the beach is St Drostan’s It now provides a wide range of picturesque site, perfect for picnics are also views across the mouth Well, a drinking fountain which is exhibitions on subjects ranging winning fish and chip shops. Pick up daily catches from fish and sunbathing with plenty of sand of the where you named after the saint who is said to from the fishing community, family and rockpools. Nearby, visit Findlater can see the neighbouring town have landed on the beach AD 580. At history, and WW1. There are also markets and fishmongers and cook your own. With monkfish, Castle if you want a trip back in time, of Macduff. Enjoy walks along the the west end of the beach, see if you evening classes, from knitting and or wander among the local trails for beach and rocky shoreline. can spot the memorial to Jane Whyte. crochet to camera club and dance lemon sole, scallops and lobster just a few of the exciting a chance to see some wildlife. In 1886, she helped rescue the crew classes to join in. seafood options available, you are sure to be amazed by what of the steamship William Hope which Postcode: AB42 1NR was wrecked close to the shore. you can find. Discover more local foodie delights at Postcode: AB43 6HR www.visitabdn.com/what-to-do/food-and-drink/local-produce

05 Findlater Castle B1 13 , Banff C2 21 Museum of Scottish , Fraserburgh E1 29 Arbuthnot Museum, F2 Look out for businesses displaying VisitScotland’s The ruins of Findlater Castle stand on Take in the splendour of one of Take a guided tour of , Immerse yourself in the wealth of Quality Assurance award. a rocky promontory projecting out Scotland’s architectural masterpieces. the only lighthouse in the world built in Peterhead’s maritime history at one Taste Our Best into the sea some two miles east of Built by William Adam in the 18th a castle, during your visit to this national of Aberdeenshire’s oldest museums. It recognises quality Aberdeenshire Cullen and a mile west of Sandend. century, the house was originally a seat museum. See a wonderful collection of Learn about fishing traditions and ask us where to find Brown tourist signs direct you from for the 1st Earl and is now one of glass lenses and learn about the lives maritime explorations of the past food and drink on menus across the A98 to a parking area at a farm, 19 sites on Scotland’s only Castle Trail. of those who watched over Scotland’s through some fascinating exhibits, such Barnyards of Findlater, and from Admire the artworks, many of which coastline for over 200 years. Enjoy some as models depicting the development of & the region. Learn more at here it is a half mile walk along a are on loan from the National Galleries refreshments in the Lighthouse Museum Peterhead fishing boats, Inuit artefacts, good grassy path to the interpretive of Scotland, before exploring the vast Café and take in views of the entrance a large coin collection and even a aberdeenshire’s www.visitscotland.com/tasteourbest board on the cliffs behind the castle. parkland grounds. Stroll along the banks to the – you might even spot stuffed polar bear. Get a glimpse into best kept secrets The castle remains that are still there of the River Deveron to the south of the some wonderful marine wildlife. history and check out the many old are from the 14th-century rebuilding, house, or test your game with a round of Postcode: AB43 9DU photographs of the area, or join in with when the castle was redesigned golf at Duff House Royal Golf Club. Tel: 01346 511022 the programme of special events. based on the Rosslyn Castle model. Postcode: AB45 3SX Postcode: AB42 1QD Tel: 01261 818181 Tel: 01779 477778 What’s On 06 Surfing at Sandend Beach and Banff Links B1 14 The Platform (Macduff) C1 22 Fraserburgh Heritage Centre E1 30 F2 Aberdeenshire’s coastal towns and villages boast a variety of events to suit all, from festivals celebrating maritime Surf’s up! Head to the small, but Treat yourself to a relaxing Explore this treasure trove of wonders Take in the sights, sounds and smells heritage to traditional folk music. perfectly formed, Sandend Beach afternoon at The Platform in and discover 400 years of history at this of one of the busiest fishing ports in and catch some of the best waves in Macduff where you can try award-winning museum and visitor Europe. Historic Peterhead harbour is harbour the country. The area is a magnet for something new, catch up over centre, established by members of the home to over 400 vessels, a bustling In June make your way to Portsoy for the Scottish Traditional Boat Festival, where you can admire some beautifully crafted surfers who travel from far and wide to lunch, enjoy coffee and cake, all local community. It gives a great insight daily fish market and a leisure marina. ride the waves which crash onto this whilst admiring the spectacular into the story of Fraserburgh and its Explore the bay on foot and try to sailboats from the charming stone harbour. Soak up the unique atmosphere as you listen to live Scottish music, see traditional quiet sandy beach. Unsurprisingly, the views over the Moray Firth. Keep people. Learn about Thomas Blake picture hardy sailors, whalers and If you’re looking for the true spirit of Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, crafters in action and sample some freshly cooked local fare. beach lends its name to the nearby your eyes peeled and you may even Glover, one of the founders of modern fisher folk from the past. Make sure tart your search at one of our VisitScotland iCentres. We’ll point you village. Less than 10 miles east is Banff be able to spot a dolphin. Japan, and see some remarkable you pop into Ugie Salmon Fishings to in the direction of the best the region has to offer, whether you need Links, another prime surfing location, Postcode: AB44 1UL garments by iconic 1960s fashion pick up some freshly landed fish – it’s Celebrate in Aberdeenshire at the Stonehaven Fireballs, a traditional and renowned event. See the parade of where you can get lessons from Surf designer Bill Gibb. Scotland’s oldest salmon fish house advice on where to go and what to do, or even if you’re looking to and Watersports Club Scotland. and sells directly to the public. fireball swingers and welcome in the New Year. Find out about more events and festivals at www.visitabdn.com/whats-on Postcode: AB43 9DT book accommodation or tickets for all kinds of events, activities and Postcode: AB45 2JJ and AB45 2UA Tel: 01346 513802 Postcode: AB42 2PF transport. Come and talk to our knowledgeable and friendly staff . Tel: 07867 522282

23 Union Street, Unit 3, The Mews, 9A, The Square, 07 Glenglassaugh Distillery B1 15 Macduff Marine Aquarium C1 23 Fraserburgh Beach E1 31 Peterhead Lido Beach F2 Aberdeen, Mar Road, , AB11 5BP , AB54 8BR Situated at the east end of beautiful Discover astonishing underwater Don’t forget your bucket and spade This quaint, sandy beach boasts open 01224 269180 AB35 5YL 01466 792255 Sandend Bay is Glenglassaugh worlds at this brilliant attraction which when you head to Fraserburgh Beach views across the bay, and a marina Distillery, founded in 1875 by Colonel is great fun for all the family. Learn – it’s the perfect spot for a traditional full of yachts and boats. It’s a popular 01339 741600 National Park 66 Allardice Street, James Moir. For over 20 years, this about the marine life of the Moray Firth, beach holiday building sandcastles shoreline for windsurfing and sailing, distillery was closed until it was from its rocky shores to the depths of and bathing in the sea. This stretch among other watersports, but also Authority, Albert Memorial Hall, Museum of Scottish Stonehaven, purchased by a group of investors and the sea floor. Come face-to-face with of coastline is the Home of Scottish has parking, shops, and cafés nearby Station Square, Lighthouses, AB39 2AA production restarted in 2008. Discover local sea creatures such as octopus Surfing, having previously hosted the for a family day out. Situated in , Kinnaird Head, 01569 762806 the fine flavours of one of the Secret and wolf fish, and hold starfish and Scottish Surfing Championships and Peterhead itself, the Peterhead Lido AB35 5QB Castle Terrace, Malts of Aberdeenshire and go on a crabs at the touch pool. The aquarium is also popular with windsurfers. Beach is easily accessed from the 01339 755306 Fraserburgh, behind-the-scenes tour. You can even is home to a living kelp reef, the only Postcode: AB43 8UE A982 and nearby towns. fill your own bottle of Glenglassaugh one of its kind in Britain. Look out for Postcode: AB42 2UP AB43 9DU whisky and take it away with you! divers hand-feeding the fish! Collie Lodge, Low Street, 01346 518315 Banff, Postcode: AB45 2SQ Postcode: AB44 1SL AB45 1AU Tel: 0131 335 5130 Tel: 01261 833369 01261 812419

08 Portsoy Ice Cream B1 16 Gardenstown Heritage Centre D1 24 Waters of Philorth Nature Reserve E1 32 Peterhead Prison Museum F2 Treat yourself at Portsoy Ice Cream and Up for a history lesson? Come along The Local Nature Reserve incorporates Dedicated to the staff that order a scoop – or two – of this sweet to the Gardenstown Heritage Centre the estuary of the River Philorth and worked there from 1888-2013, the and creamy frozen delight. This award- where you can browse through old the sand complex, which is part Peterhead Prison Museum allows winning, family-run producer uses local photos, memorabilia and learn of the larger Fraserburgh Bay sand you to experience what life was like ingredients wherever possible to make about the area’s fact-filled past. dune system. The river is an important as an officer with tours around the a tantalising range of flavours, from Located in Gardenstown, it has feeding site for many migrating birds main halls, silent cell, and much classic vanilla to strawberry panna easy access from the neighbouring especially waders and wildfowl, such more. Set in the former prison cotta. Relax in the Coffee Corner, or towns of Pennan and Crovie and as oystercatcher, redshank, and dunlin. itself, hear staff members speak of order a cone to take away and enjoy boasts views over the Moray Firth. A car park area with picnic facilities their own experiences as you walk your ice cream whilst taking in views of Postcode: AB45 3TY has been established at the landward around the halls, reception, shower the pretty and historic harbour. side of the and a boardwalk and blocks and hospital. Postcode: AB45 2QT footpaths provide access around the site. Postcode: AB42 2ZX Tel: 01261 842279 Directions: Two miles south east of Tel: 01779 482200 The Scottish Traditional Boat Festival Fraserburgh town centre on the B9033 to www.visitabdn.com St. Combs and Inverallochy Road. 37 Forvie NNR and , near Newburgh E3 45 Dolphins at Torry Battery, Aberdeen E4 53 Old Church D6 Explore Walk through a breathtaking landscape For many, the star attraction of In 1652, Kinneff Old Church played of shifting sand dunes at Forvie Aberdeen’s busy harbour is its pod an important part in history when National Nature Reserve and explore of bottlenose dolphins, and Torry it became the hiding place of the Aberdeenshire the heather moorlands, clifftops and a Battery is an excellent viewpoint to Crown Jewels after they were secluded bay which lie nearby – there’s try and spot these playful creatures – rescued from Dunottar Castle during Discover a diverse region packed with outstanding even the ruins of a half-buried 12th make sure you bring your binoculars Oliver Cromwell’s siege. Today century church to explore. Birdlife is and camera! Take a stroll to this there are displays in the church that beauty, with expanses of wild, lush forests, winding plentiful; waders and waterfowl feast former fortified artillery battery, which depict both its the history and that in the mud in winter, and in summer was last used defensively in WWII. of the surrounding fishing villages. rivers, rugged moorland and imposing mountains you’ll see a thousand breeding eider Standing nearby at the entrance of The church is open daily and is ducks in the Ythan Estuary. You’re also the River Dee is Girdleness Lighthouse located just south of . sweeping down to miles of unspoilt coastline. virtually guaranteed to see basking which was designed by Robert Postcode: DD10 0TJ grey and common seals. Stevenson and built in 1833. Tel: 01561 362412 As well as boasting fascinating royal connections and Postcode: AB41 8RU Postcode: AB11 9DA Scotland’s only Castle Trail, there is a wealth of wonders to

discover where Aberdeenshire meets the ocean. 38 Newburgh Beach E3 46 Stonehaven Open Air Swimming Pool E5 54 D6 Just a short trip north of Make a splash at Stonehaven’s open The shore has an attractive pebble The historic towns and villages which line the coast are a Aberdeen, you can find yourself air heated swimming pool, located beach. One of Inverbervie’s most surrounded by a mesmerising in the town’s Queen Elizabeth Park. famous residents was Hercules testament to this area’s long-standing relationship with the sea sandy beach at the mouth of Beautifully designed in Art Deco style, Linton who designed the notable the Ythan River. The Newburgh this Olympic-sized public pool and tea clipper the “Cutty Sark”. A and are perfect for exploring. Within these settlements, you’ll beach is also home to extensive lido is filled with clean sea water. With memorial to him stands next to the sand dunes. This is a good area a water temperature of 29˚C (84˚F), Jubilee Bridge, featuring “Nannie find some great attractions which give you a unique insight into for bird watching. Seals can it’s perfect for a refreshing dip on a Dee” - the witch from Robert Burns’ also be spotted around the summer’s day. Kids will love the fun poem Tam O’Shanter - holding the maritime and industrial heritage. estuary. Parking is available sessions, and look out for the special a grey horse’s tail in her hand, a near the beach. night time openings where you can replica of the figurehead of the ship. The scenery is dramatic; experience this coastal combination Postcode: AB41 6AA swim beneath the stars. Postcode: AB39 2RD of rocky cliffs, long stretches of golden beach, ever-changing Tel: 01569 762134 sand dunes, remarkable geological formations, and powerful white waves, which roll in from the North Sea. 39 Beach E4 47 Aunty Betty’s and Giulianotti’s Ice Cream Shops E5 55 The Quayside Restaurant and Fish Bar, Gourdon D6 Visit the expansive, award-winning Indulge your sweet tooth and sample Gourdon is around ten miles south Start your journey at www.visitabdn.com beach at Balmedie and discover some cool, creamy treats from along the coast from Stonehaven and the perfect place to spend a sunny Stonehaven’s much-loved ice cream is one of the few harbours where fishing afternoon playing in the sand or kicking and sweet shops. Pop into Aunty Betty’s boats are still sailing from on a regular a ball around with the kids. Stroll across and choose from a delicious array of basis. Gourdon has a strong sense the long stretches of white sand or, if ice creams, ice cream cakes, sweeties of being a working fishing port with you feel like something more energetic, and coffees. lobster pots piled around the harbour. why not experience the exhilaration Postcode: AB39 2RD Overlooking the harbour, taste fresh of cantering across miles of beach on Tel: 01569 763656 seafood at the Quayside Restaurant horseback, or bring a body board and Experience old fashioned sweet shop and Fish Bar. Parking is available in the hit the waves? Trump International charm at Giulianotti’s, where Italian ice harbour area for coaches and cars. Golf Links is also nearby if you prefer to cream has been made to a secret recipe Postcode: DD10 0TJ enjoy a round of exquisite links golf. for generations. Tel: 01561 360111 Postcode: AB23 8XG Postcode: AB39 2EQ Tel: 01569 762444

40 Donmouth Local Nature Reserve E4 48 Stonehaven Harbour and Tolbooth Museum E5 56 Maggie Law Maritime Museum D6 Where the River Don meets the sea, you Stonehaven’s pretty working harbour, The Maggie Law was one of the first can find the Donmouth Local Nature busy with sailing yachts and fishing inshore lifeboats, built in 1890 and Reserve – a great place to see seals and boats, makes the perfect subject for rowed by six men she was in service for a wide variety of sea birds. You can also budding photographers. Visit the 40 years and saved 36 lives. If you are witness some interesting plants that Tolbooth Museum, housed in the oldest interested in maritime heritage you will take root in the dunes and beach area, building in the town, and uncover the be amazed at what’s on display at the as well as the bird hide where you can fascinating heritage of both the town Maggie Law Maritime Museum which watch the wildlife. Nearby there is car and the 16th century building itself; caters for all ages. The old two-storey parking, cycle racks and also ranger led historically, it served as a prison and coastguard building, which sits beside activities during the summer months. has connections to nearby Dunnottar the old harbour and slipway (the Gutty) Postcode: AB23 8DR Castle. In the summer months, take can be found in the centre of Gourdon. Tel: 01224 326429 a boat cruise to see the magnificent Postcode: DD10 0LW RSPB , a cliff colony Tel: 01569 750730 packed with 130,000 breeding seabirds. Gardenstown Postcode: AB39 2JU Tel: 07512 466329

33 Cliffs Reserve F3 41 The Beach Leisure Centre and Linx Ice Arena E4 49 Stonehaven Land Train E5 57 and Heritage Centre D6 Experience the magnificent pink-red The Beach Leisure Centre has a leisure From Market Square to the centre Benholm and Johnshaven Heritage cliffs that rise a staggering pool; including a wave machine, of Stonehaven, the Stonehaven Museum, based in the village lifeboat 60 metres above sea level. Years of fountain, rapids and four flumes, Land Train allows passengers to visit shed, overlooks the quaint Johnshaven waves pounding have caused inlets, a gym and health suite. There is a , Tolbooth Museum, harbour and features historic stacks, caves and arches to form sports hall, café and crèche. The Linx and more. Around Market Square you information about the old industries which provide the perfect shelter Ice Arena is a recognised NISA Skate can shop in the local shops, cafés and that supported the locals in the past. for large seabird colonies. There UK Ice Rink offering skating tuition fish & chip shops, or enjoy the soft You can also see the village as it was are scenic walks around the cliffs and public sessions. The arena is also play centre at Stonehaven’s open air then and wander around the streets to with the grassy slopes becoming home to figure skating, synchronised swimming pool. enjoy it as it is today. ripe with colour during spring with a skating and ice hockey clubs. Postcode: AB39 2RA Postcode: DD10 0EU carpet of wildflowers. Postcode: AB24 5NR Tel: 07415 060459 Postcode: AB42 0NY Tel: 01224 507739/ 01224 507762 Tel: 0131 312 4765

34 F3 42 Aberdeen Fun Beach E4 50 Dunnottar Castle E5 58 Starfish Studio, Johnshaven D6 Don’t miss the chance to witness this Blow off some steam at fun-filled Ruined castles don’t get much more Enjoy a relaxed afternoon in this arts collapsed sea cave, one of the most amusements, located on Aberdeen’s dramatic than magnificent Dunnottar and crafts haven. Starfish Studios, is impressive geological features of beach promenade, only one mile from Castle, perched 160 ft above the North packed with original art and beautiful Aberdeenshire’s coastline. Follow a the bustling city centre. Challenge Sea. Nothing beats approaching the crafts, ceramics, jewellery, glass, narrow clifftop coastal path (care required) yourself on the Vertigo Aerial Assault castle on foot along the coastal path from textiles, and more. The shop is also to the Bullers of Buchan and look upon the Course, take a ride on the Crazy Train Stonehaven. This fortress has a long and a working artist’s studio for Kate 30 m deep chasm where you’ll see the Rollercoaster, or test your skills on a enthralling history: it was besieged by MacKenzie, who sews with a variety waves rush through the natural archway. round of adventure golf, all at Codona’s Oliver Cromwell, has housed the Scottish of textile styles, and paints in acrylics Located off the A975, just north of Cruden Amusement Park. Kids will have tons of Crown Jewels and also been graced by using bright, vibrant colours. Nearby, Bay, this natural marvel boasts some fun in Smugglers Cove indoor play area. visits from Scottish icons explore lovely coastal walks, rockpools spectacular clifftop scenery and is a Enjoy a bracing walk along the beach and Mary, Queen of Scots. If you’re lucky, and keep an eye out for seals and great spot for catching sight of puffins, before checking out the cafés and you’ll also see dolphins and puffins from dolphins. kittiwakes, guillemots and razorbills. restaurants which line the esplanade. the castle ramparts. Postcode: DD10 0EN Directions: 6 miles south of Peterhead Postcode: AB24 5NS Postcode: AB39 2TL Tel: 01561 360118 Tel: 01224 595910 Tel: 01569 762173

35 Beach F3 43 E4 51 RSPB Fowlsheugh, by Stonehaven D5 59 NNR C6 Stretch your legs and take a walk The Aberdeen Maritime Museum Guillemots, razorbills and kittiwakes Feel like you’re miles from the hustle along beautiful Cruden Bay beach, tells the fascinating story of the city’s are some of the thousands of and bustle of urban life as you wander a two mile wide arc of pink sands history with the sea. Admire the variety breeding birds which collectively form along the cliffs and dunes of St Cyrus which lies between Cruden Bay of collections, from shipbuilding to an awesome natural spectacle on National Nature Reserve. In the and Port Erroll. This award-winning fishing to port history and fast sailing the cliffs of Fowlsheugh in the spring summer months, this protected area is beach is popular with day trippers, ships. Also get involved with the and summer months. You might see awash with colour and life, from pretty watersports enthusiasts and museum’s interactive collections, such comical-looking puffins and beady- purple bellflowers dotted across sea anglers. The entire bay is a as touch screen consoles, computer eyed fulmars too. Put on your boots the grassy dunes to the constant designated bathing water area, so be visual databases, hands on exhibits and follow one of the clifftop paths movement of fluttering butterflies. sure to pack your swimsuit! You can and more. This award-winning and admire the breathtaking coastal Keep your eyes to the skies, where you access the beach by the White Ladies museum, located in the heart of vistas, and keep your eyes to the might spot circling peregrine falcons, Bridge across the Water of Cruden. Aberdeen, is a great family day out. sea; grey seals, dolphins and minke or in the winter months look out for Postcode: AB42 0RF Postcode: AB11 5BY whales are often spotted by walkers. feeding waders on the shoreline. Tel: 01358 751330 Tel: 01224 337700 Postcode: AB39 2TP Tel: 01346 532017 Postcode: DD10 0AQ

36 Beach F3 44 Aberdeen Cruises E4 52 D5 Image Credits Once a haven for smugglers, the Enjoy a harbour tour, dolphin adventure The historic fishing village of Front cover image: Buchan Ness sandy Collieston beach is an idyllic or fish and chip cruise, all fully narrated, Catterline is perched on cliffs Lighthouse. sheltered beach, perfect for walks, to experience Aberdeen from a different overlooking the bay and harbour. Publication: 2017/18 picnics and sunbathing and makes perspective. Aberdeen Cruises gives It has been said that in the late for a great day out for families and you close up views of the numerous 5th century St Ninian used to land Thank you to all our photographers, Find out more about children. You can even treat yourself oil industry vessels in the harbour and here as he faced the challenge of Image credits; VisitAberdeenshire, to an ice cream at the aptly named docks, as well as venturing further from converting the to . VisitScotland/Neil McIntyre; RSPB /Andy Aberdeenshire’s Coastal Trail at ‘Smugglers’ Cone Ice Cream and shore where you can keep an eye out for Through the 1900s a number of Hay; Banffshire Coast; Mike Chandler; Confectionary Shop. The main car local bottlenose dolphins, minke whales artists including Joan Eardley, formed SNH/Lorne Gill; Portsoy Community www.visitscotland.com/coastaltrail park is on the pier beside harbour. and a variety of other marine wildlife! what some have referred to as the Enterprise,Scottish Traditional Boat Catterline School: artists drawn by Festival/Allan Robertson; Aberdeenshire Postcode: AB41 8RQ Postcode: AB11 5SS Council; Glenglassaugh Distillery. Tel: 01224 337700 Tel: 01475 721281 the atmosphere and the light of this intriguing little village. This leaflet has been produced and published by VisitScotland and VisitAberdeenshire. HuntlyPortsoy Castle

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