Aberdeenshire: 3-day itinerary

Tow children run towards the camera on the lawn in front of Crathes Castle. An older couple walk hand in hand behind them.

From a garden masterpiece in Ellon to a fairytale castle in Alford, there’s so much to discover in Aberdeenshire. We’ve made it easy for you to plan your trip with a 3-day itinerary, so you don’t miss anything!

Day 1

Start off with a visit to Mar Lodge Estate National Nature Reserve, at the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, before heading east to explore Drum Castle, one of Scotland’s oldest tower houses. Finish day one with a visit to the turreted Crathes Castle.

A view of the River Ey running through the glen at Mar Lodge Estate

A red grouse sits on a lichen-covered rock and looks towards the camera.

A view of the exterior of Drum Castle from the lawn on a bright sunny day

A young boy jumps from one tyre towards another in the playground at Drum Castle.

A view of the exterior of Crathes Castle from the lawn, on a bright sunny day. Two sculpted yew trees stand before the steps that lead up to the castle.

Looking towards Crathes Castle from inside the walled garden. Gravel paths surround immaculately bordered plots with colourful plants inside.

Day 2

Continue the castle trail and enjoy incredible views from the top of the round tower of Castle Fraser. Visit the fairytale setting of Craigievar Castle before wandering through the beautiful garden at Leith Hall.

A view of the exterior of Castle Fraser, with the sun shining on the white stone walls. Sheep graze in the fields in the distance.

Inside the Great Hall at Castle Fraser, showing the barrel-vaulted ceiling. Various pieces of wooden furniture surround the room. The floor is now carpeted. A long chandelier hangs from the centre of the room.

A view of the exterior of Craigievar Castle, shown nestled on the hillside and framed by tall trees. A flag flies from the roof. Various small outbuildings stand in front of the castle, slightly to the left.

A room inside Craigievar Castle, with a blue tartan carpet and dark wooden furniture. The ceiling has decorative white plasterwork.

A view of Leith Hall seen from the driveway on a sunny day with blue skies and white clouds.

The lawn at Leith Hall Garden, with a purple-flowering shrub in the foreground.

Day 3

Start off day three by marvelling at the brilliant design and meticulous maintenance that give Pitmedden Garden its unique charm. Afterwards, take in the William Adam-designed Haddo House before finishing your trip at the imposing 800-year-old fortress of Fyvie Castle.