The best walks and hikes around Donside

Donside offers a wide variety of hiking experiences with nearly 40 routes documented on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more challenging ascents, ensuring options for all fitness levels.

Yes, Donside has over 20 easy hiking trails. A great option for families or those seeking a gentle walk is the Craigievar Castle – View of the Castle loop from Craigievar Castle, which is just over 3.5 km and offers lovely views of the historic castle.

Donside is characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and the winding River Don. You'll find prominent hills like Bennachie offering stunning views, serene riverside paths, and ancient woodlands. The region's landscape includes wetlands, distinctive Caledonian pine and birch woods, and open moorland at higher elevations.

Many of Donside's trails are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the moderate Lord Arthur's Hill Summit loop from Manabattock Hill is a popular circular option providing varied terrain and scenic vistas.

Absolutely. Donside is rich in history, with several ancient castles and historical sites integrated into hiking routes. You can explore trails that pass by or lead to places like Corgarff Castle or offer views of Craigievar Castle. Other notable castles in the wider area include Castle Fraser and Balmoral Castle.

Yes, Donside features some interesting natural monuments. You can visit the dramatic Burn O' Vat Waterfall, or explore ancient sites like the East Aquhorthies Stone Circle and Tomnaverie Stone Circle.

The trails in Donside are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 60 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from tranquil riverside paths to challenging hill climbs, and the blend of natural beauty with historical interest.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Donside offers difficult routes with significant elevation gain. The Suie Viewpoint – Lord Arthur's Hill Summit loop from Hill of Millmedden is a demanding 20.9 km trail that takes about 6 hours to complete, providing expansive views from the summits.

Many trails in Donside lead to breathtaking scenic viewpoints. The Bennachie range, including Mither Tap, offers panoramic vistas. You can also find excellent views from summits like Hill of Fare Summit Cairn and Oxen Craig Summit.

Donside is often described as wilder and more remote than its southern counterpart, Deeside, particularly in its upper reaches. This makes it an appealing destination for those seeking a quieter, more immersive natural experience amidst diverse landscapes and rich historical attractions.