Ringing Stone

A granite boulder the size of a garden shed sits alone on the moorland above Ballater, and if you strike it with a stone, it rings out like a bell. That's the Ringing Stone - and yes, people actually do come here to hit it. The rock produces a clear, musical tone that carries across the heather, which feels properly daft when you first try it but oddly satisfying once you manage a decent strike. It's not much of a destination on its own, but as a quirky stop during a moorland walk around Aberdeenshire's higher ground, it works perfectly.

Historians reckon the stone earned its nickname centuries ago, though the sound thing remains fairly mysterious - some say it's a natural acoustic property, others that it's slowly changed over time. Either way, the walk to find it through open terrain gives you proper Highland views, especially on a clear day when you can see for miles across the Dee valley towards Ballater.

This is one for people who enjoy aimless wandering rather than structured attractions. Kids might get a kick out of clattering it with rocks; walkers will appreciate it as a turning point on a longer route. There's no visitor centre or facilities, so bring water and decent boots - the ground gets boggy. Allow an hour if you're making it a proper excursion rather than a quick detour.

Combine it with Howe of Torbeg caravan park nearby, which gives you a base for exploring Ballater's hiking trails and the wider Royal Deeside landscape. Free to visit, naturally.