Scotland's enchanted city: what Aberdeenshire has to offer

Numerous tourists can find some of the most popular vacation spots in the north of Scotland. Here you can admire the highlands and islands, which are visited by a huge number of tourists every year.

But if you want to enjoy these breathtaking landscapes, mouth-watering food and drink, and a city break you'll love without the crowds, tourists are advised to head to the northeast. Publications ChronicleLive publishes some of the reasons why Aberdeenshire should be on your travel itinerary.

Unique vacation in the city

Aberdeen has been called one of the most unique cities in Scotland due to its proximity to the sea, with the beach just a 10-minute walk from the city center. The historic towns of Footdie and Old Aberdeen offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy the rich history of the region. Tourists can visit stunning buildings such as St. Mahar's Cathedral and King's College, and the quaint cobbled streets offer locations for magical photos.

The beautiful and highly photogenic fishing village of Footdee is just a 20-minute walk away, or just under five minutes by car. Combine this with the modern appeal of the city's exciting arts and cultural offerings and the fact that there are some incredible restaurants. It's easy to see why influential travel writer Sarah Marshall recently named Aberdeen as one of her top destinations.

Festivals and events

The city is known for its festivals, including the world-famous, award-winning Noir Street Art Festival, which returns to the city this June. It is visited by famous artists, including the famous Brazilian artist Tiago Mazza.

Meanwhile, the 10-day Aberdeen Jazz Festival takes place in the city from March 14-24 and features more than 100 performers playing everything from blues to big band. Those looking for something more traditional can head west to the beautiful town of Banchory, where they can enjoy the North of Scotland Band Championships with more than 20 top bands from across the north of Scotland and over 30 exciting performances.

Art and culture

Art lovers can find incredible inspiration at the Aberdeen Art Gallery, which is housed in an impressive granite building and is home to one of the finest collections in the country. Current exhibitions include the lives and works of impressive artists such as Scot William Gillies and French Louise Bourgeois, as well as Voices from the Granite Industry, where you'll learn how the Granite City earned its name.

A gourmet's paradise

The city of Aberdeen offers a wide range of quality dining options that culinary gourmets will appreciate. Try vibrant dishes from favorite Thai specialists Madame Mews, innovative plant-based dishes at Foodstory, succulent seafood dishes at Moonfish Cafe, or sumptuous meals with a view at The Silver Darling.

Outside the city, you can dine at the luxurious Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course, enjoy ice cream at the award-winning Portsoy, try one of the best fish and chips at Stonehaven from The Bay. Fish and chips and the pioneers of the craft beer revolution in Scotland at the home of BrewDog. Also, Eat on the Green in Udny, Kildrummy Inn in Alford and Fish Shop in Ballater are called the pearls of Aberdeenshire that are worth visiting.

Rich history of the fantastic region

Aberdeenshire, home to more than 260 castles, is of historical importance and had a direct impact on the formation of the country that became Scotland. Tourists are attracted by the impressive cliff-top ruins of Findlater and Dunnottar castles overlooking the North Sea, as well as the majestic Slanes Castle, which is said to have inspired the castle in Bram Stoker's Dracula.

And don't forget about the grandeur of Aberdeenshire's most famous castle, the majestic Balmoral, the Scottish home of the royal family. Visitors with a true sense of adventure can even go in search of their very own Scottish pyramid, built by Queen Victoria in honor of the husband she lost, with a majestic monument found among the royal pyramids at Balmoral.

Home of Scotland's national spirit

Aberdeenshire is home to some of the finest distilleries in the country. Look out for the historic Glen Garioch in the heart of the idyllic village of Oldmeldrum, surrounded by the stunning Huntly countryside, or the majestic Royal Loch Ness in the Cairngorms wilderness, which was a favorite of Queen Victoria herself.

If you want to experience the full tasting experience, the atmospheric cave bar 1236 at Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course is worth a visit. This 13th-century manor house is home to an almost 800-year-old whisky lair. An incredible bar filled to the brim with over 120 samples of the drink, you'll be shocked by the selection - just ask for help from an experienced bartender if you feel a little overwhelmed.

Outdoor recreation

For those who want to get to know the local nature, we recommend the Cairngorms, which is called home to epic hikes. A trip to Greyhope Bay will be rewarding for wildlife enthusiasts, as it is considered the best dolphin watching spot in the UK, and the center in Torrey Battersea offers the best place to watch the cheerful bottlenose dolphins all year round.

Often referred to as "Scotland's most popular mountain biking destination", Aberdeenshire is also home to incredible routes for all skill levels, from families to professionals, including the stunning Heartbreak Ridge and purpose-built bike parks at Tarland Trails, as well as Aboyne Bike Park.

Incredible road trips

Aberdeenshire offers one of the best routes for a road trip. A few years ago, the North East 250 was named in the list of "top 500 global road trips not to be missed". It is a 250-mile circular road trip that was first launched in 2017 and starts in Cairngorms National Park and winds around the northeast coast. Through the stunning wilderness of the Cairngorms, you'll be able to enjoy epic sights like the impressive Drum Castle, cliff-top Slanes Castle and the idyllic town of Ballater.

A variety of family activities

The region is ideal for family vacations with many activities to help you spend time with your children and any four-legged friends. In particular, children will enjoy discovering fairy-tale castles with their secrets. If you go here in the summer, you will find water activities at the huge outdoor pool and the pool at Stonehaven Beach, where you can play in a heated pool filled with clear sea water.

The city itself is also a playground for families, with plenty of green space. In addition, you can also visit attractions such as the popular Aberdeen Science Center and the exciting Codona Park and Amusement Park by the sea.

It is worth reminding that the English national team is preparing for the European Football Championship in one interesting place. According to TravelWise, this five-star resort will also help the players have a good rest before the competition.