Wood of Glen Ferrick

You'll find yourself in proper woodland here - the kind where the light filters through pine and birch in that particular way that makes you forget you're still in Aberdeenshire. Wood of Glen Ferrick is a straightforward forest walk near Aboyne, nothing fancy, but genuinely worth the detour if you're staying at Feughside or Aboyne Loch caravan parks.

The woodland itself is mixed and mature, with paths that suit most fitness levels. It's the sort of place where you can spend anywhere from forty minutes to two hours depending on how far you fancy pushing into the trees. Don't expect marked trails or interpretive boards - this isn't that kind of wood. What you do get is decent cover if the weather turns, something genuinely useful when you're based at one of the nearby parks.

Families with younger kids can manage the easier sections, though once the legs tire the walk becomes a bit of a trudge back to the car. Walkers and nature types will appreciate the relative quiet - you won't be fighting crowds here. The woodland supports the usual Highland flora and if you're lucky with timing you might spot red squirrels or roe deer, though no guarantees.

It's free to access, obviously. Allow a couple of hours if you're taking it seriously, less if you're just stretching your legs between caravan park activities. The nearest facilities are in Aboyne itself, a short drive away. Pair this with a visit to nearby Glen Dye Cabins area if you're planning a proper walking weekend - the Dee Valley has plenty to keep you occupied.