GO YOUR OWN WAY ON THE NORTH EAST 250
Welcome to the ultimate road trip to the heart of Scotland. A route to remember that will see you embark on a journey of discovery through stunning scenery and uncover the rich culture and heritage of the North East of Scotland – all in one amazing route.
The North East 250 comprises six of Scotland’s most inspiring regions that offer you the best of Scotland in a single road trip. Think whisky distilleries that will give you a tour with a wee dram, ancient castles full of fascinating history, picturesque fishing villages, miles of dramatic coastline and secluded sandy beaches, bike trails and long-distance walking routes, spectacular mountain backdrops and vibrant city arts and culture.
And, it’s not just the scenery and experiences that make the North East of Scotland an unforgettable destination; the friendly locals will make your road trip even more memorable. Meet our makers, distillers, weavers, artists, craftspeople, guides and much more along the way and learn about the North East from those who know it best.
Where will you go? We invite you to Go Your Own Way on the North East 250.
WHICH SECTORS OF THE NORTH EAST 250 WOULD YOU LIKE TO EXPLORE?
FOLLOW THE VIDEO
If you like our video and are interested in visiting some of the places shown on film, take a look below and plan your own North East 250 experience now.
Aberdeen
Rainbow Steps
Bon Accord, Aberdeen
Discover a splash of vivid colour amongst the Granite City and be sure to take a photo at one of the city’s most popular spots.
Nuart Installations
See Scotland’s only street art festival and admire the works of art by artists from around the globe that adorn walls and buildings across Aberdeen city centre.
Find more inspiration on things to see and do in the Aberdeen area to add to your list of places to visit on the North East 250.
East Coast
Newburgh Seal Beach
Relax at this beautiful beach with wide sands, picturesque dunes and home to a 400-strong seal colony at the mouth of the Ythan River.
Tahuna Bothies
Stay at these cosy, bespoke self-catering glamping bothies offering panoramic views over the Aberdeenshire coast within walking distance of Forvie National Nature Reserve and Newburgh Seal Beach.
Slains Castle
Visit this spectacular ruined castle on the coast of Cruden Bay believed to be the inspiration for the setting of the tale in Count Dracula. The Castle has also appeared in popular TV series The Crown.
Bullers of Buchan
Admire the spectacular scenery and spot a wide variety of seabirds at this collapsed sea cave – one of the most impressive geological sites on the Aberdeenshire coastline.
Find more inspiration on things to see and do on the East Coast to add to your list of places to visit on the North East 250.
Moray Firth and the Sunshine Coast
New Wave Surf School
Learn how to ride a wave at Lossiemouth East Beach. Surfing lessons suitable for beginner to intermediate level are available with equipment provided. Stand up paddleboards can also be hired.
Cullen Links Golf Club
Tee-off at this traditional 18-hole Scottish Links course originally designed as a 9-hole course by the legendary Old Tom Morris with spectacular views over the Moray Firth.
Crovie
Step back in time at this enchanting 18th century village in Aberdeenshire said to be the best preserved fishing village in Europe. Built on the narrowest space between shore and cliff of any village in Scotland, it’s recommended only to explore on foot.
Johnstons of Elgin
A renowned woollen mill in Elgin founded in 1797 that continues to produce the finest woollens and luxurious cashmere knitwear. Explore the Visitor Centre and discover a fascinating story of Scottish innovation and expertise dating back over 200 years.
Find more inspiration on things to see and do on the Moray Firth and the Sunshine Coast to add to your list of places to visit on the North East 250.
Speyside
Ballindalloch Single Malt Distillery
Situated within the grounds of Ballindalloch Castle on the banks of the River Avon, enjoy a tour of Scotland’s first single estate distillery where the barley is grown on the estate and the draff fed back to the cattle – a way of distilling that generations past would appreciate.
Speyside Way
Explore one of Scotland’s four official long distance routes linking the Moray Coast with the edge of the Grampian Mountains following the valley of the River Spey.
The Dowans Hotel, Aberlour
Discover a family-run contemporary retreat housed in a traditional Scottish manor with turrets overlooking the village of Aberlour in the heart of the Malt Whisky Trail. Don’t miss the impressive Still bar with its 500-strong collection of whisky.
Spirit of the Spey
Enjoy an open canoe journey on the River Spey with exclusive Malt Whisky tasting experiences facilitated by the Spey’s most experienced River Guide.
Hideaway Under The Stars
Plan a retreat to this unique and beautiful hand-crafted hobbit house in the foothills of Ben Rinnes offering the ultimate relaxing escape from everyday life.
Find more inspiration on things to see and do in the Speyside area to add to your list of places to visit on the North East 250.
Cairngorms
Glenlivet Bike Trails
Enjoy these purpose built mountain bike trails at the heart of Glenlivet Estate. A collection of fun, flowing single track trails and a skills area with spectacular scenery and stunning views.
Corgarff Castle
Uncover the intriguing history of this medieval tower house with a unique star-shaped perimeter wall, originally a noble residence which became an army base for hunting Jacobite sympathisers and whisky smugglers.
Northern Lights
Spot nature’s most beautiful light show in the Cairngorms – officially recognised as one the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, with Tomintoul and Glenlivet boasting gold tier “Dark Sky Park” status.
Find more inspiration on things to see and do in the Cairngorms National Park to add to your list of places to visit on the North East 250.
Royal Deeside
Lost Loch Spirits
Enjoy a micro-tour and tasting at this award-winning craft distillery, or try your hand at distilling your very own spirit at the Spirits School. Discover your inner distiller and create a personalised bottle of your very own spirit to take home.
Drum Castle Garden & Estate
Visit one of the most beautiful castles in Royal Deeside, located only eight miles from Aberdeen city centre. Explore 700 years of history at one of Scotland’s oldest tower houses, and relax in the splendid gardens full of centuries-old oak trees, wonderful wildlife and the Garden of Historic Roses.
Find more inspiration on things to see and do in Royal Deeside to add to your list of places to visit on the North East 250.