Considered to be the industrial powerhouse of northeast Scotland, Aberdeen is fuelled by the oil and gas industry derivedfrom the North Sea. The city's deep-rooted history with the ocean is mirrored in its maritime attractions with many museums, restaurants and monuments dedicated to its prosperous sea trade.
The city's location between therivers Dee and Don along witha sweeping coastline make it an idyllic coastal getaway. But it's the coast either side of Aberdeen that offers tourists mile-upon-mile of beautiful beaches,wildlife reserves and awe-inspiring scenery.
Breathtaking Banffshire
North of Aberdeen the breathtaking Banffshire coast stretches from Pennan to Cullen, offering tourists a unique blend of sandy coves, charming coastal villages and Georgian architecture. Known as Scotland's Dolphin Coast, it's here you are most likely to catch a glimpse of a bottle-nosed dolphinsin one of the most northerly podsin the world.
Half way along this stretch is the historic county town of Banff, home to elegant 18th Centurymansion Duff House, which...
National Nature Reserves
South of Aberdeen you will discover some of Scotland's greatest National Nature Reserves.Towering over St Cyrus sandy dune beach is a cliff face that not only offers spectacular panoramic views of the North Sea but protection to anabundanceof wildlife. Head out for a walk along the sandy shore and trace the cliff base on your return and beyond some old fishing cottages you will discover wild grassland and rare flowers.
On the other side of Aberdeen, about an hour along the coast from St Cyrus, you'll discover Forvie National Nature Reserve. Scramble uptoweringsand dunes and stumble across hidden bays as you walk heather moorland.
The mouth of the Ythan Estuary is a hotspot for birdwatchers. More than 200 bird species have been recorded todate, and you can expect to catch a glimpse of migratory terns, including the rare little tern. The estuary also supports the largest colony of eider ducks in Britain.
CliffsideCastles
Located on the same stretch of the northeastern coast as St Cyrus you'll find the evocative ruins of Dunnottar Castle poised on the cliff's edge high above the North Sea.This 14th century fortress played a huge part in Scotland's historyand counts freedom fighter William Wallace and Mary, Queen of Scots among its famous residents. It was here that a garrison of 70 men held off Oliver Cromwell's army for eight months, and stopped him from destroying the Scottish crown and other royal regalia.
For those wanting to explore the coasts, castles and nature reserves of Aberdeenshire, our nearest pick-up point is at Aberdeen.