When people think about castles in Scotland, they often picture the big names that appear in every travel guide. They’re certainly worth seeing, but some of the most rewarding days out can be found a little further off the beaten track. Aberdeenshire is said to have more castles per square acre of land than anywhere else in Scotland, Aberdeenshire is castle country!
If you’re looking for a short break that combines fascinating history, beautiful gardens, dramatic coastline and a few hidden gems along the way, this two-day itinerary is a wonderful way to experience the very best of Aberdeenshire and Angus.
Take your time, stop whenever something catches your eye, and enjoy discovering a side of northeast Scotland that many visitors never get to see. If you don’t get to see everything you wanted to in that two days, then you’ll have to plan a follow up visit and explore Aberdeenshire some more.
Day One – South of Aberdeen: Castles, Gardens and Coastal Villages
Start at the House of Dun
Our first stop takes us just outside Montrose to the elegant House of Dun, one of the northeast’s most elegant historic homes. Designed by renowned Scottish architect William Adam in the 18th century, the house offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the families who shaped this part of Scotland over the centuries.
Unlike the fortified castles you’ll encounter later in the trip, House of Dun is all about refinement and comfort. As you wander through its beautifully restored rooms, changing fashions and life on a grand Scottish estate.
The setting is equally impressive. Surrounded by mature woodland, rolling parkland and peaceful riverside walks, it’s easy to lose track of time here. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trails, and if you’re visiting in spring or summer, the grounds are particularly beautiful.
A Hidden Gem: Montrose Basin
Just a few minutes from the House of Dun lies one of Scotland’s most remarkable natural landscapes. At first glance, Montrose Basin may appear to be a peaceful stretch of water, but this vast tidal lagoon is a haven for wildlife and one of the country’s most important nature reserves.
Covering more than 750 hectares, the basin is constantly changing with the tides. Twice a day, the incoming North Sea waters transform the landscape, creating an ever-changing habitat for birds, seals and other wildlife. It’s this unique environment that attracts thousands of migratory birds throughout the year, making it a favourite destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
Even if you’re not particularly interested in wildlife, the views alone are worth the stop. On a calm day, the reflections across the water can be stunning, while the surrounding countryside provides a peaceful backdrop that’s hard to resist. The visitor centre offers excellent viewing opportunities and helpful displays explaining the basin’s history and ecology.
Lunch in Montrose
Montrose is one of those towns that deserves more attention than it receives. For a relaxed lunch in the sun consider Charlton Fruit Farm just on the outskirts of Montrose, or Saltys for a pub lunch with a twist.
Explore Edzell Castle
If there’s one castle on this itinerary that surprises people, it’s Edzell Castle. Set against a backdrop of rolling Angus countryside, the castle combines the romance of a ruined Scottish stronghold with the elegance of a country residence. Built in the 16th century by the powerful Lindsay family, Edzell was designed not only as a home but also as a statement of wealth, learning and sophistication.
The true highlight, however, is the magnificent Renaissance Walled Garden, often described as one of Scotland’s finest historic gardens. Created in the early 1600s, the garden was designed as a place of contemplation and learning. Its beautifully carved stone panels represent the Cardinal Virtues, Liberal Arts and the Seven Planetary Deities, making it as much an outdoor work of art as a garden.
Follow the Coastal Route North
Rather than heading straight back towards Aberdeen, take the scenic route along the coast. The road passes through some beautiful stretches of countryside before reaching one of our favourite hidden gems.
Catterline
Perched dramatically on the cliffs above the North Sea, Catterline is a tiny fishing village that feels almost untouched by time. Artists, writers and photographers have long been drawn here by the stunning coastal scenery. It’s the sort of place where you can sit for a while, listen to the waves below and simply enjoy being somewhere special.
Overnight in Stonehaven
After a day of castles, gardens and coastal discoveries, Stonehaven makes the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the evening.
This bustling harbour town has long been one of the jewels of Aberdeenshire’s coastline, combining maritime heritage, welcoming hospitality and some of the finest sea views in the region. Colourful fishing boats still bob in the harbour, while independent cafés, restaurants and traditional pubs create a lively atmosphere throughout the year.
On a clear evening, the views along the coastline can be spectacular, particularly as the sun begins to set over the North Sea.
Stonehaven is also famous for its food. Fresh seafood is a local speciality, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy it in one of the town’s restaurants. If you’re looking for a treat, don’t leave without trying one of Scotland’s best-loved local delicacies – a famous Stonehaven ice cream.
Day Two – North of Aberdeen: Hidden Heritage and Coastal Treasures
Begin at Castle Fraser
One of the grandest tower houses in Scotland, Castle Fraser is often overshadowed by some of the country’s better-known castles, which is surprising when you see it for yourself.
As you approach Castle Fraser, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the finest tower houses in Scotland. With its distinctive turrets, crow-stepped gables and impressive stonework, it looks every bit the fairytale Scottish castle. Built over several generations by the Fraser family, the castle has been at the heart of Aberdeenshire life for centuries. Inside, beautifully preserved rooms tell the story of the family who lived here, offering a fascinating glimpse into life on a Scottish estate through the ages.
The grounds are equally appealing. Woodland walks, colourful gardens and peaceful estate trails provide plenty of opportunities to slow down and enjoy the surrounding countryside. What we love most about Castle Fraser is that it combines all the history and character visitors hope to find in a Scottish castle, while still feeling relaxed and uncrowded. It’s a place where you can take your time, explore at your own pace and really soak up the atmosphere.
Hidden Gem: Pitmedden Garden
Next, we head to one of Aberdeenshire’s most underrated attractions.
Pitmedden Garden is an absolute delight and often comes as a complete surprise to visitors who discover it for the first time. The magnificent Renaissance-style parterres, colourful borders and historic orchard create one of the most impressive formal gardens in Scotland.
It’s peaceful, beautifully maintained and feels wonderfully different from the castles you’ve already visited.
Whether you’re a keen gardener or simply enjoy beautiful places, Pitmedden is a stop you’ll remember.
Lunch in Oldmeldrum
There are a couple of options that are excellent choices for lunch. You could visit Bara Castle Farm Shop for a delicious farm fresh lunch or if you prefer to have a pub lunch there is the Redgarth Inn with stunning views over Bennachie. Both provide a chance to enjoy some local hospitality before the afternoon’s adventures.
Discover Tolquhon Castle
Many people have never heard of Tolquhon Castle, which is precisely why we love including it.
Hidden away in the Aberdeenshire countryside, this remarkable castle is often described as one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Scotland.
As you explore the castle, you’ll discover an impressive entrance gateway, a beautiful courtyard and a fascinating maze of rooms, staircases and passageways. It’s easy to imagine the wealth and ambition of the families who once called this place home.
What makes Tolquhon particularly special is its peaceful atmosphere. Unlike some of Scotland’s more famous castles, you can often wander through the ruins with only the sound of birdsong and the surrounding countryside for company.
Head for the Coast
Stop at Collieston
This picturesque former fishing village is one of the northeast’s best-kept secrets. Tucked into a natural harbour and surrounded by dramatic cliffs, Collieston offers spectacular coastal views and a glimpse into the area’s maritime heritage.It’s an ideal place for a leisurely walk and a few photographs.
Visit Newburgh’s Seal Colony
Just along the coast, the vast sand dunes at Newburgh are home to one of Scotland’s largest seal colonies. A great place to end the day with a bit of nature watching. Watching dozens, and sometimes hundreds, of seals lounging on the shoreline is a memorable experience and a real highlight for many visitors.
A Different Side of Scotland
What makes this itinerary special is that it combines some of the northeast’s finest castles with places that many visitors never discover.
From the elegance of the House of Dun and the remarkable gardens of Edzell and Pitmedden, to the hidden fishing villages of Catterline and Collieston, this is a journey filled with unexpected delights.
If you’re looking for an authentic Scottish escape that blends history, scenery and a few well-kept local secrets, this two-day Castles and Coast adventure might just be the perfect place to start.
