I’d been looking forward to visiting Dunnottar Castle for a long time, and it absolutely lived up to the anticipation. Departing from Aberdeen, this full-day tour heads into the heart of Aberdeenshire before arriving at one of Scotland’s most breathtaking castles. Perched dramatically atop rugged sea cliffs overlooking the North Sea, Dunnottar is the kind of place that stops you in your tracks. Even before you learn its history, the sweeping coastal views alone make the journey worthwhile—just be warned, the stairs are no joke. This is very much a “take your time and pretend you’re not out of breath halfway through” situation, but every step is rewarded with views and history that more than earn the climb.
Of course, this isn’t just another ruined castle. Dunnottar’s story stretches back over a thousand years, with one of its most famous chapters tied to William Wallace, who is said to have captured the fortress from an English garrison in the late 13th century. Centuries later, it became the hiding place of the Honours of Scotland—the Scottish Crown Jewels—protecting them from Oliver Cromwell’s advancing army. Wandering through the ruins, it’s easy to picture the sieges, royal intrigue, and dramatic moments that unfolded on these windswept cliffs.
The Scottish weather had other plans for the morning. With rain making the trails slick, we decided to skip the Muir of Dinnet Nature Reserve rather than risk a muddy hike. Instead, our guide made the most of the changing conditions, stopping at the picturesque Falls of Feugh, where the river thundered over the rocks, and pulling over for a photo stop overlooking Cairngorms National Park when the rain briefly gave way.
Lunch was in the charming village of Braemar, tucked into the heart of Cairngorms National Park. While it’s a great place to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat, Braemar is perhaps best known as the home of the world-famous Braemar Gathering, one of Scotland’s most celebrated Highland Games. Even outside games season, the village has plenty of Highland character and a rich royal connection, thanks to its proximity to Balmoral. Before leaving town, we also made photo stops at Braemar Castle and the fairy tale-like Craigievar Castle, whose distinctive pink towers look like they belong in a storybook. It was one of those days where a flexible itinerary turned the weather into part of the adventure rather than a disappointment.
By the end of the day, I was just as impressed with the journey as the destination. Getting out of Aberdeen and driving through the rolling countryside added another layer to the experience, showcasing everything from dramatic coastlines and historic castles to Highland scenery that seemed to change around every bend. If you enjoy stunning landscapes with a healthy dose of Scottish history—and don’t mind letting the weather write part of the itinerary—this tour is an easy recommendation. Sometimes the best travel memories come from embracing Plan B, and this day proved exactly that.
Time Travel and Spirits... 