Overview
From Brodie Castle head for the beaches of Lossiemouth before turning inland to Elgin. Leave Buckie following the coast to Banff. From Fraserburgh head to Peterhead and on to Cruden Bay. Pause at Newburgh and finish the trail in Aberdeen.
Brodie Castle
Surrounded by the Moray countryside, the turreted Brodie Castle dates from the mid 16th century. Explore the castle rooms, enjoy the gardens – the daffodils create a colourful display, take in the walled garden and Playful Garden and then check out Rodney’s Stone, believed to be a Pictish Cross monument.
Lossiemouth
Known as the jewel of the Moray Firth you can enjoy the scenery, harbour and long sandy beaches of Lossiemouth on the north east coast before visiting the tiny Fisheries Museum and Covesea Lighthouse with views over RAF Lossiemouth before heading off to Elgin.
Elgin
Straddling the River Lossie, Elgin has a number of attractions – take in the ruins of Elgin Cathedral and enjoy some fantastic views, visit the medieval ruins of Duffus Castle, Spynie Castle and the Moray Motor Museum.
Buckie
A wonderful little fishing village with its own harbour, Buckie has some great coastal scenery and stunning beaches. Check out the Bow Fiddle Rock at nearby Portknockie, take a walk on the coastal path and look out for the abundance of wildlife.
Banff
Situated on the estuary of the River Deveron and overlooking Banff Bay, Banff is a welcoming town with delightful tearooms, wonderful Georgian architecture and the former Banff Castle. The rooms and grounds of the nearby Duff House are well worth exploring.
Fraserburgh
A fishing strong hold on the north east coast, Fraserburgh is Europe’s largest shellfish port. Visit Kinnaird Head to discover the first Scottish lighthouse, now part of the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses to see a vast collection of lighthouse equipment. Elsewhere you will find the Fraserburgh Heritage Museum.
Peterhead
Peterhead, known as the Blue Toun, is the largest town in Aberdeenshire and a busy fishing port with over 400 vessels and a daily fish market. Visit the Maritime Heritage Centre, RSPB Loch of Strathbeg and if you dare, the haunting ruins of Slains Castle, which inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
Cruden Bay
Enjoy the amazing pink sands and the wonderful surrounding scenery of the village, Cruden Bay – a place to relax and get away from it all. You can see the church of St James said to be built on the site of the battle between the Scots and the Danes in 1012.
Newburgh
Nestling on the south bank of the Firth of Tay Newburgh overlooks the Mugdrum Island. Close by you can find Lindores Abbey – quite possibly the birthplace of Scottish whiskey, overlooking the salmon rich waters of the River Tay.
Aberdeen
The “Granite City” of Aberdeen is a port town rich in stunning stone buildings and sea views. Explore the beach and harbour with its mixture of fishing and oil industry support vessels – look out for the local dolphins and the cobbled streets to soak up the atmosphere of this charming location. Its also a great place to stay whilst exploring Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms National Park.
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