A fertile, yet wild natural beauty, Aberdeenshire is a stunning Highland destination. Dramatic views abound, whether you’re surrounded by the rugged Grampians, ruined clifftop castles, or long stretches of windblown, pale sand coastline. It’s romantic too. Our picks for the best places to stay in Aberdeenshire include a one of-of-a-kind luxury hotel, some warm and welcoming country house conversions, a Malmaison in Aberdeen, and one of the best golf hotels in the UK.
Aberdeenshire’s boundaries encompass the Buchan coastline of picturesque fishing villages to the north east; lush farmland of low, craggy hills where the Aberdeenshire Angus cattle graze; the rather savage shapes of the Cairngorms National Park; and then to the east coast (and far south of the county) and the more peaceful St. Cyrus National Nature Reserve, known for its unusual flora and fauna. Amongst all this run walking and hiking trails, with the odd stunningly located golf course. Plus, Aberdeenshire has a huge number of castles, ruined and otherwise.
Aberdeen’s glittering grey granite has garnered fans among architecture buffs, and it’s also one of the best places to spot dolphins. Banchory is a charming choice for romantic getaways, tranquilly positioned on the banks of the River Dee; and Aboyne is also home to some of the best places to stay in Aberdeenshire. Tarland is another charming centre, with its own stone circle and Iron Age dwelling, and Braemar is a beautiful village close to Balmoral and Royal Deeside.