Great walks in Aberdeenshire to enjoy this winter
As autumn draws to a close and winter begins, there’s nothing better than getting outside into the fresh air to blow the cobwebs away. Nature offers us its very own sanctuary for re-charging and, not only is it on our doorstep, but it’s free too – we have no excuse! We are lucky to have so many great walks in Aberdeenshire to enjoy, which make for a relaxing walking break or even just a refreshing day out. Here’s some of our favourite walks near Mintlaw, Aberdeenshire:
1. Mormond Hill, Strichen
Mormond Hill walk, Aberdeenshire
Just a 10-minute drive from Saplinbrae, you can enjoy a walk up Mormond Hill, which sits just North of Strichen in Aberdeenshire. At 769ft, it is considered an easy route and will take around 4½ hours to complete the 16.9km circuit from the village of Strichen. It’s ideal for walking, but also good for hiking and running too, if you’re feeling super-energetic. You can’t miss the old satellite dishes and masts at the top that it’s become known for, which are remnants from the Cold War.
Distance: ∼17k circular
2. Pitfour Lake, Mintlaw
A two-minute walk from Saplinbrae is Pitfour Lake. Situated in the idyllic setting of Pitfour Estate, which stretches over 40 acres of land, it offers a peaceful countryside stroll with scenic views across the lake, which is home to many swans, ducks, and other waterfowl.
Distance: ∼3.2k circular
3. Buchan and Formartine Way – West to Maud
The Buchan and Formartine Way is an old railway line that offers a trail from Dyce to Fraserburgh or Peterhead, depending on the route. It stretches 53 miles and is all off-road – perfect for walking or cycling.
Walking from Saplinbrae, you can enjoy a stroll to the quaint wee village of Maud, where you can explore the Maud Railway Museum at the former Maud Junction, or pop into Platform 5 coffee shop for a drink and a ‘fine piece’. Jane Keenan Design is worth a visit too –a gorgeous wee art, textiles, and gift shop, it is packed with lovely Christmas decorations and unique gifts for your loved ones.
Pitfour Lake, near Saplinbrae, Aberdeenshire
This route can be enjoyed all year round, but it’s worth checking opening times, if you’re planning to stop.
Distance: ∼12k round trip
4. Buchan and Formartine Way - East
Heading West along the Buchan and Formattine Way from Saplinbrae will take you to Simpsons at Happy Plant (formerly known as The Happy Plant) at Mintlaw, a popular garden centre, gift shop, and tea room, it’s a gentle walk that will take around half an hour Saplinbrae. If you’re planning on going soon, then don’t miss their virtual reality sleigh ride for Christmas, which is taking place throughout December – an experience not to be missed, that will get you in the mood for Christmas.
Distance: ∼3k
5. Drinnies Wood and Observatory
For a slightly more challenging route, you can head out Drinnie’s Wood and Old Observatory, which is just outside Fetterangus, which is around 3 miles from Saplinbrae. The octangular Observatory is sign-posted from Drinnie’s Wood car park. It was built by the fifth laird of Pitfour to give a birds-eye view of the surrounding countryside. Unfortunately, it isn’t open to the public, but it’s an interesting building to see nonetheless.
Buchan & Formartine Way. Heading west to Maud, you can pop into Jane Keenan Design, which has lots of Christmas gifts ideas.
Distance: ∼5k
6. Forvie National Nature Reserve
Around 15 miles from Saplinbrae is The Forvie National Nature Reserve – is a must-visit for those who love the outdoors and wildlife. Along the estuary, you can enjoy a walk across the Sands of Forvie - the fifth largest sand dune system in Britain. If you time it right, you’ll see tens, if not hundreds of grey and common seals at the mouth of the River Ythan. There is a protection order in place for seals, so visitors are advised to use the designated viewpoint on Newburgh beach to avoid disturbance. The mudflats of the estuary provide wintering ground for migratory birds, such as lapwings, curlews, and redshanks. In the Autumn, you can see around 15000 wild geese flocking to Newburgh for their winter feeding.
Distance: ∼6k
The good thing about many of these walks is that you don’t have to do the trail. You can cut them short and take things at your own pace. Whatever you manage, you’ll feel the better for the fresh air and exercise. There’s always a cuppa or hot chocolate waiting for you at Saplinbrae on your return, which you can enjoy by the fire.
For more information on walks across Aberdeenshire, please get in touch or visit https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/scotland/aberdeenshire for some insight and reviews.