Looking for a charming and scenic vacation spot in the UK? Look no further than Aberdeenshire. These seven villages are each unique and offer visitors a variety of activities to enjoy.
From hiking and biking trails to world-class golf courses, there is something for everyone in Aberdeenshire. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore some of the most beautiful countryside in Scotland!
1. Fraserburgh
Located just 40 miles north of Aberdeen, Fraserburgh is the biggest shellfish port in Europe and a busy commercial harbour.
This magical coastline offers some amazing activities and attractions including golfing, bird watching, shooting, a range of water sports and great walking and shopping opportunities with delicious local produce.
The first-ever lighthouse in Scotland was built in Kinnaird Head and now forms part of the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses.
2. Ballater
The nearest town to Balmoral Castle, one of the residences of the Royal Family, which explains the many ‘By Royal Appointment’ signs that can be seen on local shops and business.
Close by is also Royal Lochnagar Distillery which produces one of Scotland’s most exclusive whiskies. A visit to the distillery is a timeless experience.
3. Pennan & Crovie
This duo of coastal villages is up in the far north of Aberdeenshire, about 40 miles drive in your Drivalia hire car and they offer unparalleled views across the sea and offer a mixture of churches, cottages, relaxing hilltop walks, and lonely yet tranquil beaches.
Pennan is a tiny fishing hamlet with the claim to fame of being the shooting location of the 1982 film Local Hero. Crovie too is a small yet welcoming community, tucked into the steep cliffs and a place where the front doors of the houses and shops are regularly washed by the sea.
4. Collieston
A little closer to the city of Aberdeen, Collieston is just under 20 miles up the coast and is home to a popular sandy blue flag beach.
It has a history in the fishing industry with a good natural harbour and breakwaters that were constructed back in the 19th and 20th centuries, to improve the safety of the boats.
The legacy of this is today’s golden sandy beach which is perfectly sheltered and wonderful if you’re planning a drive to the seaside when visiting Aberdeen.
5. Braemar
The furthest of our villages from the centre of Aberdeen, Braemar is right on the west coast of the county and is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Grampian Mountains and Scottish woodlands.
It is a popular holiday destination, 55 miles drive from Aberdeen is local there are castles and distilleries to explore, as well as the countryside. Braemar is the eastern gateway to the Cairngorms National Park’s highest mountains and Braemar castle is also a site to be seen. This historic village is also home to the annual Braemar Gathering and Highland Games.
6. Portsoy
Right up on the northern Moray coast, not far from Pennanand Crovie, Portsoy has all the charm of a traditional port village.
Its thriving centre is on an uphill gradient and it is famous for the production of jewellery made from ‘Portsoymarble’ which was once shipped all the way to Versailles. Portsoy hosts the annual Scottish Traditional Boat Festival each July, bringing in many tourists driving up from Aberdeen and further afield.
7. Craigellachie
Once described as the most beautiful village in the whole of the old county of Banffshire, it is within walking distance of the nearest town Abelour and is famous for its suspension bridge, built by famous Scottish engineer Thomas Telford.
It is near to many interesting historic sites including Balvenie Castle and the remains of Little Conval Fort, so driving out to Craigellachie for a day trip is a chance to see both natural beauty and enjoy a bit of history.
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