Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail

About The Itinerary

Enjoy this unique itinerary spanning the 165 miles of rugged coastline. The views, myths and stories make for an unforgettable experience.

Itinerary Info

Duration:

48 hours

Itinerary Schedule

1.
Dunnottar Castle Castle landscape2
Day 1: AM

Dunnottar Castle

Dunnottar Castle Explore the ruins of this impregnable fortress on the cliff top that overlooks the town of Stonehaven. Immerse yourself in the history of the castle and learn the stories of the prisoners and famous escapee, William Wallace.

2.
Farm Stop Logo
Day 1: AM/PM

Farm Stop

Farm Stop Enjoy an opportunity to get up close to pet, cuddle, brush and feed a variety of farm animals. Meet the Scottish native breed of Highland cows, as well as sheep, alpacas, goats, pigs, chickens, ducks, donkeys, and more cute animals waiting to entertain your clients. Perfectly set up for all ages and fully accessible with options for lunch available.

3.
Countryside Rangers Seaview
Day 1: PM

Aberdeen Countryside Rangers

Aberdeen Countryside Rangers Seabird Safari Walking Tour Take a walk along part of Aberdeen’s North Sea Trail south of the city centre, with an official Countryside Ranger. Walk along the rugged coastline from the quaint suburb of Cove back towards the South Harbour. Along the way see how many varieties of seabird clients can spot such as razorbills, kittiwakes or gannets, and keep an eye out for our resident bottlenose dolphins

4.
Trump International Trump Scotland Mac Leod House Lodge LR 40
Day 1: PM

Trump International, Scotland - Luxury Food & Drink Experiences

Trump International, Scotland A luxury experience awaits at Trump International. Not only does this golf course boast stunning views, but the Estate Produce Dining gives the chance to enjoy a 3-course meal created with items grown on the surrounding estate or pair whisky with the meal for an enhanced experience.

5.
291775092 353515176960384 5915311016412067589 n
Day 2: PM

Aberdeenshire Sheepdogs

 Aberdeenshire Sheepdogs Located 15 minutes from Aberdeen, start the day experiencing sheepdogs at work during an interactive demonstration. Michelle and Gary Bruce will share their experience of working, training and trialling their Border Collies and share stories about life on a Scottish sheep farm.

6.
Brewdog beer museum2
Day 2: PM

Brewdog

Brewdog Tour the world-famous craft beer brewery and hear the story of how a couple of “local lads” started the business from their granny’s garage and the journey to expand into a global brand. Lunch is available in the DogTap along with the chance to taste some delicious beers.

7.
Peterhead Prison Museum 748 DS 154
Day 2: PM

Peterhead Prison Museum

Peterhead Prison Museum The museum is an immersive experience where your clients will walk through 125 years of history at ‘Scotland’s Toughest Jail’. The prison opened in 1888 and closed in 2013, and the experience tells the story from the perspective of the guards who worked there. Audio guides in many languages are available, or hear the stories from passionate guides with lots of secrets to tell.

8.
Museum of Scottish Lighthouses Kinnaird Head6
Day 2: PM

Museum of Scottish Lighthouses

Museum of Scottish Lighthouses Explore this 4* VisitScotland visitor attraction with three sites, Kinnaird Head Lighthouse, Kinnaird Head Castle and a purpose-built museum with the UK’s largest collection of lighthouse lenses. Options to self-tour or have an expert guide take you round.

Beauty Spots and Fun Facts

Pennan

This small and rugged village is made up of a few dozen houses on a single street. The beautiful village has some amazing film credentials as the location for Local Hero and Whisky Galore. Enjoy the colourful houses and explore the pebble beaches along the coastline.

Did you know?

On the coastal route, there is one castle that stands out. New Slains Castle overlooks Cruden Bay. Inspired by the earie and harsh surroundings, Bram Stoker was inspired to write Dracula. This castle is best viewed with a guide to understand the dark history and beautiful surroundings.

Banff

Explore Banff, the town filled with historic charm and natural beauty. Duff House is a grand mansion built in 1740 and is home to a prestigious art collection. Walk around the grounds of Banff Castle and dip your toes in the North Sea along the beautiful sandy beaches 

Image text specs

Accommodation options

165 miles of rugged coastline lead to some incredible accommodation options with stunning views. From hotels and exclusive use properties to cosy self-catering stays, there’s something to suit every type of traveller.

Travel Trade Ready Accommodation

Tahuna Bothies 1 Sunset low res
  • Coast

Tahuna Bothies

Post Date: 13 Oct 2025

Three cosy, bespoke, modern self catering bothies with stunning panoramic views in a tranquil coastal setting in Aberdeenshire. Based just outside the village of Newburgh the bothies are within walking distance of Newburgh beach and the resident seal

Read More
Cambus o May bridge 6 of 62

The Banff Springs Hotel

Choose from one of 36 rooms, each fitted with free high-speed wireless Internet access, digital television and plush bedding for a restful night’s sleep. Of the 36 en-suite rooms there are 4 that are ground floor level and have external access only

Read More
Pennan 42

The Pennan Inn

Boutique hotel and AA Rosette restaurant in Pennan, the iconic fishing village from the 1983 film Local Hero.

Read More
Palace Hotel Peterhead 1

Palace Hotel

The Palace Hotel offers the perfect answer for your travel requirements. Located in the town centre, the hotel provides an excellent base for either leisure or business visits to Peterhead.

Read More
04 Penthouse 4

Bayview Apartments

Two modern and stylish dog and family friendly holiday apartments on Stonehaven beachfront, each sleeping 4 in a twin and double room. Both with a full length balcony and stunning sea views from a wall of glass overlooking the bay of Stonehaven. You

Read More

Subscribe for product updates

Keep up to date with the latest travel trade information.

Craigievar Castle 142 DS 31 2