Astor Memorial Cairn

You'll find this modest stone cairn standing on high ground near Aboyne, a small marker that's easy to miss if you're not paying attention. It commemorates John Jacob Astor IV, the American businessman and passenger who went down with the Titanic in 1912 - there's something oddly affecting about stumbling across a memorial to such a distant tragedy in rural Aberdeenshire.

It's a short walk to reach it, nothing strenuous, and the views across the Highlands are genuinely worth the effort. The cairn itself isn't elaborate - just a sturdy stone structure with a plaque - but the location feels purposeful, like someone thought carefully about where to place it.

Historically minded visitors and anyone with an interest in Titanic history will find it worth the detour. It's not the sort of spot that'll occupy your entire afternoon, but combined with exploring the wider Aboyne area and nearby walks, it slots nicely into a Highland trip. If you're based at Tarland Camping & Caravanning Club Site or the excellent Cairngorms Glamping & Campsite, both within reasonable striking distance, you could easily work it into a day's rambling without fussing about.

Go on a clear day. The light matters here, and on a grey morning it's merely competent. Bring proper boots if the ground's damp - the approach can be boggy.