When you plan a visit to the Royal Deeside area, you have to include the village of Aboyne in your itinerary. This is the ideal location to choose as your base of operations when exploring the historic sites and castles of the surrounding towns. Located at the heart of the Victorian Heritage Trail on the banks of the River Dee, the breathtaking scenery will steal your heart away. The history of Aboyne dates back to prehistoric times as is evidenced in the stone circles that have been found here. This village used to be known as Bunty and the plan for the town was laid out in 1676, at which time it was renamed for the Earl of Aboyne.
If you are travelling to Aboyne, it is located on A93 between the villages of Ballater and Banchory and is only about 30 miles from Aberdeen. This village has its own castle and although it is not open for public tours, just the sight of it is a photo–taking event. Actually Aboyne is quite close to what is called the "Castle Trail" because of the many castles to be found in this area. Visit Craigievar Castle, which looks just like the ones you remember from reading fairy tales as a child.
If you like being outdoors, then Aboyne has a treat in store for you. It is the ideal location for walking and for enjoying the beauty of nature. There are many types of wildlife in the surrounding countryside, which allows you to get a close look at the natural habitat. See the ancient Caledonian pine forest at Glen Tanar, one of two superb nature reserves in the area. Through Glen Tanar you also get access to Mount Keen and at the Braeloine Visitor Centre in this park you can see many exhibits and displays detailing the history of the area.
Fish in the River Dee or walk the nature trails. During July and August, Aboyne is the setting for the Royal Deeside Festival featuring music, dancing, plays, films and many other types of entertainment. It is also the site of the famous Aboyne Highland Games, which draws many visitors each year to either compete or to watch. You can also take in a round of golf at the 18–hole course or enjoy a game on the bowling green. Even during the winter, there is plenty to see and so in Aboyne because it is in close proximity to the winter sports facilities at Glenshee and the Lecht.
With the abundant accommodations in Aboyne, you shouldn't have any difficulty finding a hotel room, a bed and breakfast or a self–catering cottage. There are many stores where you can purchase souvenirs of your visit and the restaurants serve mouth–watering meals. Drop into the pub for a drink, where you will get to meet the locals and enjoy some of the folklore of the village.