The best walks and hikes in Aberdeenshire

Following the glorious River Dee into the mountains

Deeside’s draw is so alluring that it has long been a favourite haunt of Britain’s most famous family. The Royal Balmoral Estate, along with the picturesque towns of Braemar and Ballater are set against the stunning backdrop of the Cairngorms. Some of the best hiking trails in Aberdeenshire explore the pine forests, gorgeous lochs and rounded slopes of the UK’s largest national park.

Follow the Dee for long enough and you will end up in the Lairig Ghru, an unforgettably scenic pass that cuts straight through the mountains from Braemar to Aviemore. Its dramatic heart is bounded by beautiful, brooding giants. In Ben Macdui, Braeriach, Cairn Toul and Sgor an Lochain Uaine you have four of Britain’s five highest mountains, all towering over 4,000 feet (1,200 m) and within a few miles of each other. Scaling these beasts is strenuous but hugely rewarding and once you are up onto the high Cairngorm plateau the sense of freedom is invigorating.

A feast of sights in the east

Hikes in Aberdeenshire take on a totally different character in the east. The coast is gloriously dramatic. The ornithologist in you will delight at the puffins inhabiting the spectacular cliffs found at Bullers of Buchan. If you have not yet had your fill of grand fortresses, Dunnottar and Findlater Castles are majestic places to explore on foot. Their ruins cling sensationally to rocky headlands, perfect for a walk with big North Sea views.

Fascinating flora and fauna all year round

Walks in Aberdeenshire are magical regardless of the season. Troup Head is a riot of wildflower colour in spring and dolphins can often be seen frolicking in the waves. Sunbathing seals occupy Newburgh Beach in summer, a splendid sight.

Back in the Cairngorms, an adventure to the imposing, dark crags of Lochnagar is marvellous and you might just catch the sight of a golden eagle circling in the blue above. The evocative sounds of the red deer rutting season echo around the hills in autumn. Although stunningly beautiful, the Cairngorms are the UK’s most dangerous range in winter due to the freezing temperatures, changeable weather, navigational challenges and huge distances involved. In short, the high hills are only the domain of experienced and equipped mountaineers during this time.