Cullykhan Shore

The walk down to Cullykhan Shore takes you through coastal scrub and past old stone ruins - which sets the tone immediately. This isn't a manicured beach resort. It's a proper working stretch of Aberdeenshire coast near Banff, all golden sand and dramatic cliffs, where you'll spot seabirds wheeling overhead and the occasional fishing boat heading out.

What makes it stand out is the sheer drama of the geology. The cliffs here are something else - layers of sandstone and shale that rise sharply from the sand, and at low tide you can walk quite far along the beach itself. The rocks underfoot are slippery though, so decent footwear is essential. Families with young kids will manage the descent fine, but pushing a buggy down would be nightmare territory.

Historically minded visitors will want to know about the old quarrying that happened here - you can still see the workings in places. It's not a destination that screams "look at me," but that's rather the point. Walkers especially will appreciate it. The coastal path is well-trodden and you could easily combine it with a stroll to nearby spots without much fuss.

If you're camped at Gamrie Bay Caravan Site just down the road, you've got a proper gem on your doorstep. A couple of hours here, maybe three if you're really taking your time with photos, is about right. Go at low tide if you want the full beach experience. No facilities to speak of - bring what you need. It won't be the highlight of your Aberdeenshire trip, but it'll linger with you long after.