Logie Den

The woodland paths at Logie Den offer proper Scottish forest walking without the crowds you'd find further north. It's a genuine river gorge surrounded by mature trees, with the Den Burn running through it - all within easy reach of Laurencekirk if you're staying in the area.

You get a mix of woodland tracks and steeper sections down to the water. The gorge itself is the main draw, with ancient oaks and moss-covered rocks that look like they've been here forever. It's the sort of place where you actually notice the quiet. Allow a solid hour minimum if you want to do the full route without rushing.

Historically minded visitors will appreciate that this is proper Aberdeenshire, with the landscape telling you something about how the land was shaped. It's less manicured than managed forest trails elsewhere - which is either brilliant or a bit too muddy depending on when you visit and what shoes you're wearing.

Families with older kids will manage it fine; the younger ones might find it a slog. Solo walkers and couples looking for a proper woodland ramble get the most from it. The proximity to St Cyrus Holiday Park makes it a sensible half-day outing if you're based there - you could pair it with a coastal visit to break up the itinerary.

Best avoided during heavy rain when the paths get treacherous. No facilities on-site, so bring what you need.