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Strathdon, Aberdeenshire: The Perfect Scottish Getaway
- Where is Strathdon?
- How To Get To Strathdon
- By Car
- By Bus
- History of Strathdon
- What to Do in Strathdon
- Explore history at Corgarff Castle
- Hike up to the summit of Ben Newe
- Get a glimpse of the Glenbuchat Castle
- Enjoy local culture at Lonach Highland Gathering and Games
- Where to Eat and Drink in Strathdon
- Enjoy afternoon tea at Goodbrand & Ross Tea Room
- Grab a hearty meal at The Steading Bar
Strathdon is known for its historic castles, Aberdeenshire highlands, crystal-clear rivers, and traditional Scottish culture. Although it’s not as well-known as its neighbouring regions like Braemar and Ballater, Strathdon holds a special place in this nature-loving heart.
Aside from being the perfect place to reconnect with nature, it’s also a hidden gem for history buffs! One of my younger siblings appreciated our Strathdon trip mostly for the haunting stories behind the region’s many castle ruins.
I hope you enjoy this carefully-curated Strathdon travel guide and visit Strathdon soon.
Where is Strathdon?
Strathdon is in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, to the northeast of the Cairngorms National Park. It sits about 45 miles west of Aberdeen.
From Aberdeen, you can get to Strathdon by bus or by car. Either way, the journey takes about 1 to 2 hours depending on the traffic.
How To Get To Strathdon
By Car
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Start by taking the A96 heading northwest. After about 39 miles, continue straight for 2.3 miles, then turn left onto the A944 for a short drive.
From there, you’ll continue on Waterside Road to reach Strathdon. Be prepared for rural roads. There’s not a lot of services available in the area, so plan fuel stops accordingly!
By Bus
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From Aberdeen, start at the Union Square bus station and take the 218 bus towards Alford. The bus ride takes about 1 hour and 16 minutes. You’ll arrive at Old Mart in Alford after many stops.
From Old Mart, you’ll transfer to the 219 bus which will take you to Bellabeg. This bus ride takes about 1 hour and has fewer stops. Once you arrive in Bellabeg, you’ll take a short 11-minute walk to Strathdon!
History of Strathdon
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Strathdon is paradise for history buffs interested in Scottish history, especially in the turbulent times of the Jacobite Risings. This was where clans rallied behind the Jacobite cause in the hopes of restoring the Stuart monarchy to the British throne.
Visit the Corgarff Castle to see the very garrison that witnessed moments of the Jacobite Rising. There are many other ruins spread across Strathdon that are rich in stories of loyalty and conflict that I found fascinating.
What to Do in Strathdon
Explore history at Corgarff Castle
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Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/corgarff-castle/
Address: Corgarff
Contact details: +44 19755 71227
Operating hours:
1 April to 30 Sept
- Monday to Tuesday – Closed
- Wednesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4:30 PM; closed for lunch 12 NN to 1 PM
1 Oct to 31 Mar
- Closed
If you’re a history buff, you’ll be delighted to visit Corgarff Castle, Strathdon’s one of many historic sites. Explore this 16th-century castle and learn about its significance in Scotland’s Jacobite risings.
You can also enjoy the striking views of the star-shaped fortification surrounded by the Cairngorms landscape—a must-see for history buffs!
Pro tip:
Be prepared for uneven terrain and wear comfortable shoes! Mobile phone reception can be patchy in most remote areas.
Hike up to the summit of Ben Newe
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Address: Ben Newe
Operating hours:
- Open daily
If you love gentle yet fulfilling hiking trails like I do, Ben Newe is perfect for you. It took me around 2 hours to complete the trail.
You’ll walk through a pine forest as you make your way up to the summit where you’ll find its “sacred well” which was renowned for its supernatural cures. There is a steep ascent as you’ll be climbing to the summit, but it’s not too bad. Be prepared for a grassy, heathery trail.
Get a glimpse of the Glenbuchat Castle
Address: Glenbuchat Castle
Contact details: +44 131 668 8600 (managed by Historic Environment Scotland)
Operating hours: Glenbuchat Castle is closed until further notice but the exterior can still be viewed year-round.
Glenbuchat Castle is a 16th-century tower house famed for its turbulent past and lovely views over the River Don. We visited the castle on an early misty morning, so imagine how hauntingly gorgeous the ruins looked.
Even with the interior closed, you can still stroll around the grounds which offer amazing views– just be sure to wear sturdy shoes for the uneven terrain!
Enjoy local culture at Lonach Highland Gathering and Games
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Website: https://www.lonach.org/
Address: The Lonach Highland and Friendly Society
Contact details: +44 7498 310 179
Operating hours: Every August on the fourth Saturday
The Lonach Highland Gathering and Games was an incredibly Scottish experience. The energy of the crowd and the sound of bagpipes bring local culture to life. Hearing about how popular this event is, we booked accommodations months ahead!
If you’re planning a trip to Strathdon, I highly recommend going on the fourth Saturday of August as it’s the only day this event takes place. It’s a full day of events to celebrate Scottish traditions! Arrive early to get a good spot. For a true Highland experience, don’t forget a tartan blanket.
Where to Eat and Drink in Strathdon
Enjoy afternoon tea at Goodbrand & Ross Tea Room
Media credits: Goodbrand & Ross
Website: https://goodbrandandross.com/
Address: Corgarff
Contact details: +44 1975 651433
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM
This cosy little tea room offers excellent light snacks like paninis, soups, ice cream, drinks, and cakes for weary travellers who find themselves along the A939. The food and drinks are freshly made and generously portioned. They cater to vegans too, so there’s something for everyone!
When you’ve had your afternoon tea, be sure to explore their gift shop which stocks a variety of Scottish wines and gins, Hygge-inspired goods, and festive Scandinavian decor. I bought a few cosy decor and a knit sweater myself!
Pro tip:
Parking won’t be an issue, with ample space available. While they have a no-dog policy, they do make exceptions for support and assistance dogs inside the tearoom and gift shop.
Grab a hearty meal at The Steading Bar
Media credits: The Steading Bar
Website: https://steadingbar.com/
Address: The Steading Bar
Contact details: +44 1975 651400
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – closed
- Friday – 5 PM to 11 PM
- Saturday – 3 PM to 11 PM
- Sunday – 3 PM to 9 PM
The Steading Bar is a delightful countryside gem brimming with rustic Scottish charm. Pop in for a pint or settle down for a proper meal with beer.
They make hearty favourites like steaks, pies, and seasonal game with fresh, locally-sourced produce. If you’re there for the wine, you’ll find that it pairs well with their pies and cheeses.
We dined al fresco at the beer garden, which is open all weekend, but you’ll need to book your table in advance. On Fridays from 5 pm and 6 pm, they offer a fantastic deal– a hot butcher’s pie along with a pint of your choice for only £6.50!
