North of England
Scotland
East of England
Heart of England
South of England
South West of England
Wales
Why Take A Self-catering Break in Aberdeenshire?
For starters, the county boasts 165 miles of coastline which is one of the most scenic coastlines in the world! With many beautiful coastal cottages that make the perfect base. Whether you’re visiting the golden sand beaches and coastal cliffs, enjoying a city break or escaping to the Scottish countryside, Aberdeenshire is a fab place to take a cottage break.
Visitors can explore distilleries, golf courses, seaside towns and magical castles. In fact, there are over 260 castles in Aberdeenshire – so you’ll have to make a decision on which castles you visit during your stay!
What are the restaurants like around Aberdeen?
There’s a wealth of tasty delights for foodies to enjoy during their stay. Whether you enjoy eating out at top-quality restaurants or consider yourself a whiskey connoisseur, you’ll be able to make the most of eating and drinking in this Scottish county.
Famous for Aberdeen Angus beef, Dean’s shortbread and whiskey, there is plenty of food and drink products to enjoy at food markets, cafes, restaurants, pubs and shops during your cottage break.
The area also has some of the best salmon and trout in the world! For whiskey enthusiasts, there are many distilleries throughout the county that you can visit for tours, samples and to shop.
Is Aberdeenshire a good place for a family break?
Whilst on a family holiday in Aberdeenshire, you’ll find plenty of activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained, especially your little ones. The Pitmedden Garden and Museum of Farming is a fun day out.
Home to over 30,000 bedding plants, and miles of gardens and woodland trails, this is a great place to visit, especially in the summer. The Museum of Farming Life at this attraction is a good way to learn more about the history of agriculture.
The Den and the Glen is another reason to stray from that hot tub and makes for a top family day out. This attraction is an indoor soft play area with climbing wall tower, restaurant and sports area. There is also an outdoor-themed park with large nursery rhyme characters, farm, swings and roundabout, picnic areas and lovely scenery.
Is this a good staycation for couples?
Aberdeenshire has many cosy cottages, perfect for romantic getaways
Aberdeenshire is a lovely place to enjoy a romantic break with your partner. With stunning countryside and over 165 miles of scenic coastline, couples can make the most of the lovely walking trails.
There are plenty of locations where you can enjoy picnics and watch the sunset, for the ultimate romantic evening together in your own private hot tub. For couples who enjoy an alcoholic drink, a visit to a distillery is a great way to spend an afternoon together.
Take a tour of one of the many whiskey distilleries in the county including the Glen Garioch Distillery where you can learn about the distilling process, taste samples and shop for goodies to take home. Other locations that are great to visit as a couple including Balmedie Beach, Balmoral Castle and Loch Muick.
Is it dog friendly?
With 165 miles of coast and lush countryside including the 41 mile Deeside Way in the Cairngorms National Park, there is so much to discover with your pooch in Aberdeenshire.
When visiting the coast, Balmedie and Fraserburgh Beach are both dog-friendly. You’ll be able to walk on long stretches of beautiful sandy beaches, visit coastal fishing villages and admire the scenic views with your furry friend.
Inland, there is so much landscape to explore including the hill range Bennachie which has plenty of walking routes near your cottage retreat. You’ll also want to check out Pitfour Lake, and river views along the Deeside Way. Wherever you take your dog in Aberdeenshire, you’ll be guaranteed magnificent views and a pet-friendly environment.
Top 6 Things to do in Aberdeenshire
With over 260 castles, a magnificent coastline and a national park, Aberdeenshire is a diverse Scottish county with so much to see and do during your hot tub break. Whether you’re taking a holiday with friends, family or a loved one, you’ll find plenty to keep everyone entertained, including the pooch!
#1 – Castle Trail
Boasting over 260 castles, you’ll be spoilt for choice at any of our cottages in Aberdeenshire. The Castle Trail brings together some of the most popular castles in the county. There are 13 castles in the trail showcasing some of the most unique castles in the area including Craigievar and Kildrummy. See more of our coastal cottages here.
So, if you’re deciding which castles to visit when you’re next in Aberdeenshire, check out some of the recommended castles on the castle trail.
#2 – Glenshee Ski Centre
is the largest skiing resort in Scotland where you can ski, snowboard and sledge. If you’re visiting Aberdeenshire in the winter months, and a fan of snow sports, this is a must-visit! Boasting 3,504 feet of mountainous adventure, Glenshee is a fab activity centre for everyone regardless of your ability!
So, whether you’re an experienced skier or complete beginner, Glenshee is a fun day out.
#3 – Balmoral Castle
Another magnificent castle, Balmoral castle is a large estate house in Royal Deeside. Owned by Queen Elizabeth II, it has been the residences of the royal family since the 1850s. It is a working estate with farmland, forests and animals.
This superb Scottish castle is open to the general public where you can explore the grounds and gardens, take a guided tour and even take a safari tour! There is also a café and gift shop where you can pick up Scottish souvenirs.
#4 – The Royal Deeside Railway
Enjoy a train ride along the River Dee on the Royal Deeside Railway. The standard gauge steam and diesel heritage railway is a lovely way to see the beautiful scenery. Return journeys last around 20 minutes making it a good activity to do with all the family at some point during your cottage break.
#5 – Aberdeen Beach
This beautiful golden sandy beach is a short distance from your cottage and has a large promenade and is surrounded by activities and restaurants. The beach is great for walks with family, friends or your loved one. With plenty of cafes and takeaway vans, you can enjoy a cup of tea while walking on the beach. The beach is also dog-friendly so you can take your pooch too!
#6 – Glen Garioch Distillery
is one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland. Specialising in small batch scotch whisky, the distillery is located in the historic town of Oldmeldrum near the city of Aberdeen. Visitors can take tours of the distillery where they can learn more about the history of the distillery and the whiskey distilling process.
Visitors will be able to enjoy samples along the way and have plenty of time to shop for bottles of whisky and other gifts to take back to their hot tub!