8 Aberdeenshire walks to enjoy this Autumn and Winter

As the vibrant colours of autumn fade into the quiet beauty of winter, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire offer some of the most picturesque and rewarding walking trails. Whether you’re after a peaceful coastal stroll or a woodland escape, the region has something to offer for every walker, regardless of the season.

Craigievar Castle offers a magical backdrop for an autumn or a winter walk. This fairytale-like pink castle is said to be the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s castles, and it becomes especially enchanting during the colder months.

We’ve compiled a list of eight walks ranging from the rugged coastline of Portlethen to the enchanting woodlands surrounding Craigievar Castle. So, wrap up warm, lace up your boots, and head outdoors on some of these lovely autumn or winter walks in Aberdeenshire.

1. Dunecht Estate

Located a 30-minute drive west of Aberdeen along the A944, Dunecht is a small village home to one of the largest estates in Aberdeenshire. Dunecht Estate boasts stunning landscapes, historical architecture, and miles of walking routes throughout the peaceful countryside.

Upon entering Dunecht from Aberdeen, on the left-hand side there is space for several cars to park at the gates to the Dunecht Estate. Alternatively, there is plenty parking available in the layby that runs alongside the main road. (Please note that it is a working estate with tractors and other large vehicles needing access, so please park carefully and make sure you don’t obstruct any roads or field entrances).

There are many roads and paths to be explored in the estate and the route can be lengthened or shortened depending on your needs. With few slopes, rolling fields and only the sound of wildlife or the crunch of frosty leaves beneath your feet, Dunecht Estate is the perfect countryside escape.

Top tip: We recommend walking to the impressive Dunecht House – a striking 19^th century granite mansion found in the heart of the estate. While the house itself is privately owned, its impressive architecture is worth seeing and can be photographed from afar.

2. Scolty Hill

For an invigorating walk, head out to Banchory and tackle the iconic Scolty Hill. Although the walk to the summit is not particularly long, only taking about 45 minutes, it is fairly steep and strenuous at times.

Once at the top, you will be greeted with sweeping panoramic views over the Royal Deeside that can be enjoyed even more so from the top of the 20-metre-high Scolty Tower! The monument was built in 1842 in honour of General William Burnett.

If you don’t fancy the climb, there are also a couple of waymarked woodland trails around the lower slopes of Scolty, offering a more peaceful and sheltered stroll. The longest route, the March Trail, winds its way through the forest for 4km – be sure to keep a look out for woodpeckers, roe deer and red squirrels!

3. Hazlehead Park

Hazlehead Park and its surrounding woodland is the perfect place for autumn and winter walks. Located on the outskirts of Aberdeen, this park is easily accessible with ample parking and facilities.

The park’s well-maintained network of pathways caters to walkers of all abilities. Families can enjoy the gentle paths that loop around the park, taking approximately 20 minutes, while more adventurous walkers may wish to explore the surrounding woodlands which extends the route to around 5km.

The café located in the heart of the park offers a lunch menu, as well as sit-in or take-away hot drinks and homebakes – it’s the perfect spot to cosy up after your walk!

4. Portlethen Coastal Path

Located just south of Aberdeen in Portlethen, this lesser-known trail offers breathtaking views over the North Sea and the rugged coastline. It is an easy coastal ramble, mostly through arable farmland, and takes around 1 hour to complete.

As you walk along the mix of paved roads and grassy paths, you’ll be treated to the sight of dramatic cliffs, secluded bays, and rocky outcrops. The raw beauty of the coastline is especially captivating in the colder months, with the bracing sea air and crashing waves creating an invigorating atmosphere.

5. The Deeside Way: Drumoak to the Milton of Crathes

The Deeside Way is a 41 mile (66km) long path that follows the route of the Old Royal Deeside Railway from Aberdeen to Ballater. Along this route, we recommend walking from Drumoak to the Milton of Crathes near Banchory.

It’s an almost 10km out-and-back trail taking roughly 2 hours to complete. The well-maintained path, shared by cyclists, is accessible for all with gentle inclines and stunning river and countryside views throughout.

The walk begins at Drumoak and there is parking available just off the main road next to the war memorial. Head west along the left-hand side of the A93 until the pavement veers left onto a pathway through the woods. Then simply follow the path until you reach the Milton of Crathes – a complex with independent businesses and a restaurant to enjoy a bite to eat or a coffee halfway through your walk. There is also parking available here if you wish to do the route in reverse!

6. Newburgh Beach

Newburgh Beach, a stunning stretch of Aberdeenshire coastline, is a must-visit for walkers, especially now with the recent opening of an all-abilities boardwalk. Think fresh sea air, golden sands, and the sound of waves crashing ashore and the call of swooping birds above.

As you stroll along the boardwalk which traverses throughout the sand dunes to the opening of the River Ythan, take in the spectacular scenery and look out for the local wildlife. The beach is often known as Newburgh Seals Beach as it is very likely that you will see grey and common seals here basking on the opposite side of the river or playing in the river mouth.

Top tip: Autumn is one of the best times of the year to visit Newburgh Beach as it is pupping season. Up to 1,000 grey and common seals haul up on the sands here to birth their pups.

7. Craigievar Castle and Woods

Craigievar Castle, located near Alford in Aberdeenshire, offers a magical backdrop for an autumn or a winter walk. This fairytale-like pink castle is said to be the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s castles, and it becomes especially enchanting during the colder months.

The walking trails around Craigievar Castle are well-suited for a leisurely stroll, taking roughly 1 hour to walk around. The paths meander through woodlands filled with vibrant autumn colours or dusted with winter frost. As you explore, you can enjoy beautiful views of the castle and the surrounding countryside, along with the opportunity to spot local wildlife such as red squirrels and deer.

8. The Aberdeen Beachfront and Footdee

For a refreshing coastal walk that blends history with stunning sea views, we recommend a walk along Aberdeen’s beachfront to the charming village of Footdee, known locally as Fittie.

Aberdeen’s beachfront is a popular destination for walkers, and rightly so! Its wide promenade provides plenty of space for a seaside stroll and its abundance of cafes, restaurants and foodtrucks allow you to grab a coffee or bite to eat. There is also plenty of free parking available along the beachfront or at Queen’s Retail Park.

Head south along the beach where, at the end of the beachfront, you will find the historic fishing village of Fittie, which can be easily missed if you don’t know that it’s there! Fittie’s picturesque, cobbled streets and quirky, traditional cottages are wonderful to explore and offers a glimpse into Aberdeen’s maritime heritage.

By Amy Leith
Born and raised in Aberdeen with an admiration for Orkney and Shetland, loves to travel and visit new places, enjoys cooking, always listening to music, spends a little too much time on TikTok.

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