Take in a little of the captivating coast with this easy day run. Leave Aberdeen on the main A90 (signposted Peterhead). You’re running parallel to the coast past Balmedie (country park, long beaches, dunes). Turn right on A975 for Newburgh (Sands of Forvie nature reserve, visitor centre at Collieston) and continue north. Go by Cruden Bay (famous golf course, Slains castle, Dracula connections). Also nearby are the Bullers o’ Buchan, spectacular cliff scenery. Rejoin the A90 for Peterhead, Europe’s largest white-fish port (marina, Arbuthnot Museum, Ugie salmon fish house, Peterhead Maritime Heritage). Continue on A90 out of Peterhead (detours to RSPB Loch of Strathbeg reserve; and Crimond (home of the best-loved tune of the 23rd Psalm, detour to Rattray for fine beach).

Continue on A90 for Fraserburgh (Scotland’s Lighthouse Museum, heritage centre, busy harbour). Take B9031 for Rosehearty and New Aberdour (planned village, rocky beach with caves). Continue west by Pennan (Local Hero phone box, wild coastline) and Cullykhan (fine headland, signed car park) and the picturesque village of Crovie (park above village) and Gardenstown (also signed). Continue west, joining A98 for Macduff (Marine Aquarium) and Banff (Scots vernacular and neo-classical architecture, Duff House gallery).

Detour on to the delightful coastal villages of Portsoy (17th century harbour), Sandend (fine beach) and Fordyce (joiner’s workshop, castle) — or drive south on A947 for Aberdeen, passing Delgatie Castle (fine teas), Fyvie Castle (magnificent chateau-like structure).

What Life is Like Here Things to See and Do Your Day Out Essential Walking