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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.

Expand image 1: A view of a wide glen at Mar Lodge Estate, with a river winding its way through the centre. The surrounding hills are clad in heather and pine plantations. Expand image 2: A red grouse perches on a rock in Mar Lodge Estate Expand image 3: Trees cast shadows on Drum Castle on a sunny evening Expand image 4: A young boy plays in the park at Drum Castle Expand image 5: A view of Crathes Castle from the manicured lawn in front. Two large eggcup-shaped yew hedges stand in the foreground. Expand image 6: A photo taken from a corner of a flower bed in the walled garden at Crathes, looking up towards the castle on a sunny day.

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.

Expand image 1: An exterior view of Castle Fraser in the summer, with the round tower seen at the back. The various turrets across the roof can be seen. Sheep graze in a field in the background. Expand image 2: Expand image 3: Expand image 4: Expand image 5: An exterior view of Leith Hall from across the drive Expand image 6: Purple flowers stand in the garden of Leith Hall

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.

Expand image 1: A view of an avenue of clipped yew trees on either side of a manicured lawn. A stone fountain stands at the centre. Woodland can be seen in the distance. Expand image 2: Elaborate clipped box hedging displayed across Pitmedden Garden. In the foreground, a mixture of pink, purple and white bedding plants fill a swirl of hedging. Expand image 3: Expand image 4: Expand image 5: A large entrance hall in a castle with a flagstone floor. Large red and orange rugs cover the middle. Suits of armour stand around the side of the room, and in the centre is a large fireplace with a large plaster decoration above. Expand image 6: A sunny autumn day at Fyvie Loch, with the trees at the far side showing their autumn colours. The trees are reflected in the still water.

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