Scenic Drives, Cosy Stops & Crisp Air
As the leaves begin to turn and the air carries that first hint of frost, Aberdeenshire transforms into a landscape of rich autumn colour and cosy charm.
When autumn arrives in Aberdeenshire, the countryside is set alight with golden birch, russet rowan, and copper beech. Pair this with dramatic skies, rolling mist, and the cosy glow of Scottish hospitality, and you’ve got the perfect season for a road trip.
Here are three of our favourite autumn driving routes where you can take in spectacular scenery, enjoy short walks, and coorie in with a warming stop along the way.
1. Royal Deeside: Banchory to Braemar
The A93 west of Aberdeen is one of the best-known drives in Scotland, but in autumn it’s truly special. Following the River Dee, this road passes through charming villages and wooded glens, framed by the Cairngorm mountains.
Highlights along the way:
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Cambus o’ May Forest Walk: A short and peaceful circular trail through pine and birch woodland, glowing in shades of amber and gold.
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Ballater: A picturesque Highland village where you’ll find independent shops, royal connections, and plenty of charm.
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Lochnagar: On a clear day, the mountain’s rugged outline adds drama to the skyline, often shrouded in autumn mist.
Cozy Stop: The Bothy in Ballater is a favourite for locals and travellers alike—drop in for hearty soups, hot chocolate, or a traditional scone by the fire.
2. The Buchan Coast: Aberdeen to Fraserburgh
This drive takes you northeast from Aberdeen, hugging the dramatic coastline where cliffs meet the North Sea. Autumn brings fiery bracken to the cliff tops, while the sea reflects moody skies in steel-grey and blue.
Highlights along the way:
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Fraserburgh Lighthouse & Museum of Scottish Lighthouses: Standing tall on Kinnaird Head, this historic lighthouse offers sweeping views across the Buchan coast. The museum brings the story of Scotland’s coastal lights to life—a perfect mix of history and scenery.
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Pennan & Gardenstown: Two postcard-perfect fishing villages nestled at the foot of sheer cliffs. Ideal for a short wander and photos against colourful harbour cottages.
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Forvie National Nature Reserve: A short detour south of Collieston, this wild landscape of dunes, heath, and moorland is at its atmospheric best in autumn. Spot seals, seabirds, and enjoy the wide-open skies.
Coorie Stop: Warm up in Cullen, home of the famous Cullen Skink. The Rockpool Café is a cosy spot for this creamy smoked haddock soup, or simply a coffee and a home bake.
Short Walk: Take the coastal path from Gardenstown for dramatic cliff views, or explore the quieter dunes of Forvie.
3. Huntly to Speyside via the Snow Roads & The Lecht
For those seeking a wilder route, travel from Huntly into Speyside via the Snow Roads Scenic Route and The Lecht. This drive combines autumn forests, high mountain passes, and whisky country charm.
Highlights along the way:
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Huntly Castle: A striking ruin with deep connections to Clan Gordon, surrounded by golden woodlands in autumn.
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The Lecht Road (A939): A dramatic mountain pass with sweeping views, where autumn colours fade into heathered hills and rolling mist. Keep an eye out for red deer on the hillsides.
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Tomintoul & Ballindalloch: Quaint Highland villages that feel worlds away, offering a slower pace of life.
Short Walks:
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Huntly’s River Deveron Walk: Gentle, peaceful, and full of autumn colour.
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Glenlivet Estate Trails: Options for gentle walks through forests and glens, with crisp autumn air and sweeping views.
Cozy Stop: In Craigellachie, The Copper Dog offers traditional Scottish warmth with wood panelling, fireside seating, and an excellent whisky list—a proper place to coorie in after the high roads.
🍂 Ready to Coorie In?
Coorie is a lovely Scottish word meaning to snuggle in or nestle—both physically and emotionally. It’s about finding comfort, warmth, and contentment in simple pleasures, whether that’s wrapping up in a blanket, sipping a hot drink, or taking time to enjoy the natural world around you.
Cosy Autumn Tips for Aberdeenshire Adventures
Autumn isn’t just about where you go—it’s about how you experience it. To really enjoy the season, take time to slow down, savour the little details, and make your journey as comfortable as your destination.
🍵 Comfort on the Road
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Pack a flask: Fill it with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate to enjoy at a viewpoint or on a chilly walk. It adds a little ritual to your trip and keeps you warm when the wind bites.
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Layers, hats, and gloves: Scottish autumns can change quickly—sunshine one minute, rain showers the next. A waterproof jacket and cosy layers mean you’re always ready.
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Blanket in the car: Perfect for spontaneous picnics or wrapping up while watching the sunset from a viewpoint.
📸 Travel & Photos
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Golden hour magic: Autumn light in Aberdeenshire is softer, making colours pop. Early mornings bring misty, ethereal scenes, while evenings often gift fiery sunsets.
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Look for reflections: Lochs and rivers mirror the autumn colours beautifully, so plan a stop at a lochside or riverside walk.
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Don’t rush the journey: Stop often, wander down a woodland path, and give yourself time to notice the textures of moss, fallen leaves, and autumn berries.
🏡 Coorie Moments
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Seek out small cafés and inns: There’s nothing more Scottish than warming up with a bowl of soup or a slice of homemade cake after a brisk walk.
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Bookend your day with comfort: Start with a hearty breakfast (think porridge with berries or a full Scottish) and finish with a dram by the fire.
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Mindful walks: Even a short 20-minute stroll in the woods or along the coast can refresh you—breathe deeply, slow down, and let the cool air revive you.
🍂 Seasonal Tastes to Try
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Bramble jam on fresh-baked scones
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Apple and cinnamon traybakes
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Traditional Cullen Skink (smoked haddock soup)
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Local cheeses with oatcakes and chutney
