Statue of dog, Noble

There's a bronze dog standing in Noble, near Ballater, and locals have strong opinions about what he means. The statue commemorates a real working collie who became something of a legend in these parts - though the exact story depends on who you ask down the pub. It's not monumentally grand, but it's the sort of thing that makes you stop and wonder about the people and animals who shaped rural Aberdeenshire.

You'll find it in a quiet spot that feels proper off the beaten track, which is exactly why it works. The Highland landscape around here is what actually steals the show - the statue is more of an excuse to get outside and walk around the area. It'll take ten minutes maximum to see it, but you'd be daft not to linger and take in the views.

History buffs and rural heritage types will find the backstory genuinely interesting, though you'll need to do a bit of digging to get the full picture. Families won't get much from lingering here unless your kids are fascinated by working dogs and old stories. Walkers, though - this is brilliant as part of a broader ramble through the glens near Ballater.

If you're basing yourself at Howe of Torbeg (about five miles away), this makes a nice half-hour detour on a drives round the area. It's free, there's no entry fee or opening hours nonsense. Go when the light's good and the midges aren't out.