The best walks and hikes around Arbuthnott
4.4
(404)
3,453
hikers
77
hikes
Hiking around Arbuthnott offers routes primarily along the coastline and near river systems. The terrain features gentle elevation changes, characteristic of coastal paths and riverine landscapes. The area includes various harbours and stone bridge crossings, providing diverse points of interest for hikers.
Best hiking trails around Arbuthnott
- The most popular hiking route is Gourdon Harbour – Johnshaven Harbour loop from Inverbervie, a 9.1 miles (14.7 km) trail that takes 3 hours 46 minutes to complete, offering coastal views between two harbours.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Inverbervie – Inverbervie Stone Bridge loop from Inverbervie, an easy 3.1 miles (5.1 km) path. This route follows the river, featuring a historic stone bridge.
- Local hikers also love the Gourdon Harbour – Gourdon Harbour loop from Inverbervie, a 3.3 miles (5.4 km) trail leading through coastal areas around Gourdon Harbour, often completed in about 1 hour 32 minutes.
- Hiking around Arbuthnott is defined by coastal paths, harbour views, and river-side trails. The network offers options for easy and moderate ability levels.
- The routes in Arbuthnott are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 360 reviews. More than 3000 hikers have used komoot to explore Arbuthnott's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.8
(16)
150
hikers
3.58km
01:00
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
38
hikers
14.4km
03:42
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.5
(2)
29
hikers
4.25km
01:04
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
18
hikers
5.05km
01:20
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
6.68km
01:46
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Gourdon Survival Station – small, blue, and absolutely essential for survival! Right on the harbor wall in Gourdon, you'll find everything you need for survival – in a charmingly Scottish miniature version: • 🥫 The Storage Box – A food donation box. Open, honest, and supportive. If you're hungry, help yourself. If you have anything left over, put it in. Works better than some refrigerators! • 📚 The Little Free Library – A blue bookcase with anchor decorations, packed with crime novels, children's books, and romantic dramas. For your mind when the weather turns to "horizontal rain" again. • ⚡ The Defibrillator – Safely stored in an old telephone booth with a retro mosaic. If the thrill of a JD Kirk novel or the stairs to the harbor sweep you away – here's power for your heart. Conclusion: Humans need three things: food, reading, and life. In Gourdon, you'll find everything – right next to each other, without any bureaucracy. You just have to brew your own tea.
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Imagine a tiny museum in an old Coast Guard building right on Gutty Harbor—charming, but with the heart of a captain. The superstar there is the "Maggie Law," a 30-foot surf rowing buoy built in 1890, rowed by six men, and ingenious at performing rescues between sharp rocks—it saved 36 lives in 40 years of service!
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Here a variety of different seabirds can be Seen: Guillemots, Razorbills and Kittiwakes, along with a few Puffins and Fulmars Benches and a small hut offer great resting areas
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Beautiful cliff top walk, spotted a few puffins. The noise of the birds is amazing, thousands of them. Well worth a visit.
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From the small car park walk down past the gate to Fowlsheugh and to the end of the road. A second costal path leads down the side of a field to a good viewpoint to the falls. The cliff edges are exposed and can be slippy.
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There’s a small car park at the end of the road. From there the cliff top walk leads along the various nesting sites. To see Puffins come nearer sunset, as they spend their day out at sea.
2
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A small stream tumbles over the cliff and into the sea as a scenic waterfall. You can visit the source by hiking a short part of the trail leading into Fowlsheugh Nature Reserve. There is a tiny wooden bridge that takes you over the stream. It is also a decent water source (always treat the water, though).
5
1
Crawton Bay lies just around the corner of the tiny village of Crawton and the trailhead for the Fowlsheugh Nature Reserve. The view from the cliff is already beautiful. You can take a small path to get further down to the beach. There are plenty of sea birds nesting on the rocks, too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Arbuthnott?
There are over 75 hiking trails around Arbuthnott. The komoot community has recorded 78 routes in total, offering a variety of options for different skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Arbuthnott?
Hiking around Arbuthnott primarily features routes along the coastline and near river systems. The terrain generally has gentle elevation changes, characteristic of coastal paths and riverine landscapes. You'll encounter various harbours and stone bridge crossings, adding diverse points of interest.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Arbuthnott?
Yes, Arbuthnott offers many easy hiking trails. Out of the 78 routes, 54 are classified as easy, making them suitable for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk. An example is the Inverbervie – Inverbervie Stone Bridge loop from Inverbervie, which is 3.1 miles (5.1 km) and follows the river.
Are there any circular hiking routes near Arbuthnott?
Yes, many of the trails around Arbuthnott are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular options include the Gourdon Harbour – Johnshaven Harbour loop from Inverbervie, which offers coastal views, and the Gourdon Harbour – Gourdon Harbour loop from Inverbervie, exploring the area around Gourdon Harbour.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Arbuthnott?
Many trails in the Arbuthnott area are suitable for dogs, especially coastal and rural paths. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly near livestock, wildlife, or in designated nature reserves. Check local signage for specific restrictions.
Are there any waterfalls to see on hikes around Arbuthnott?
Yes, there are natural attractions including waterfalls near Arbuthnott. You can explore highlights such as Crawton Waterfall and Woodston Burn Waterfall and Rocks, which can be incorporated into your hiking plans.
What are some interesting places to explore or landmarks near the hiking trails?
The Arbuthnott area is rich in landmarks and points of interest. Hikers can visit historic sites like Dunnottar Castle, enjoy coastal views at Fowlsheugh Cliffs and Seabird Colony, or explore the charming Stonehaven Harbour.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Arbuthnott?
Parking is generally available in the villages and towns that serve as starting points for hikes, such as Inverbervie or Gourdon. Look for designated car parks near harbours or village centers. Always check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Arbuthnott?
The trails in Arbuthnott are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 360 reviews. Hikers often praise the scenic coastal views, the variety of paths, and the well-maintained routes that offer a pleasant outdoor experience.
Are there any longer distance hiking options available?
For those seeking longer walks, Arbuthnott offers several moderate routes. An example is the Inverbervie Stone Bridge – Inverbervie loop from Inverberbie, which covers 9.7 miles (15.6 km) and includes more elevation gain, providing a more challenging experience.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Arbuthnott?
The best time to hike in Arbuthnott is typically from spring to autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Summer offers the warmest temperatures, but spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds. Always be prepared for changeable Scottish weather, regardless of the season.
Are there cafes or pubs near the hiking routes in Arbuthnott?
Yes, the villages and towns along the coast, such as Gourdon and Inverbervie, offer local amenities including cafes and pubs where you can refresh yourself before or after your hike. These establishments often provide a welcoming stop for hikers.
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