Categories > Guides and Tips
Top 10 Girls’ Weekend Getaways from Aberdeen That Are More than Just Nails and Gossip
- Spend the day with spa at Ardoe House Hotel & Spa
- Tour Royal Lochnagar Distillery and sample fine Scotch whiskies
- Hike through Cairngorms National Park’s scenic trails
- Enjoy a lunch at Malmaison Bar & Grill’s
- Visit Crathes Castle and explore its historic gardens
- Dine at The Boat Inn in Aboyne for local cuisine
- Discover maritime history at the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses
- Explore the iconic ruins of Dunnottar Castle on the cliff-top
- Experience adventure at Go Ape in Glentress Forest
- Play laser tag at Battle Grounds Adventure in Banchory
You know that feeling when you’re craving a break after spending the entire week juggling work, errands, and endless to-do lists? Well, that was me last Friday.
Good thing my friends suddenly showed up at my door, asking me to get ready as we’re going out for the weekend. Yep, it’s as if we all have the same mind, but at least we have so much fun!
After that unforgettable mini-adventure, I decided to compile this list of the best weekend getaways from Aberdeen, ultimately for girls. You better follow along!
Spend the day with spa at Ardoe House Hotel & Spa
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Website: https://www.ardoehousehotel.co.uk/
Address: N Deeside Rd.
Contact details: +44 122 486 7355
Operating hours:
- Check in – 2 PM
- Check out – 12 PM
Cost: £££
Ardoe House Hotel & Spa is top-notch, with treatments that make all your stress just melt away. Seriously, you can get everything from facials and massages to those super soothing body wraps.
Trust me, you guys will love an hour-long massage and their hydropool—it’s like taking a vacation for your muscles. After you’re all pampered, you can lounge around in their relaxation rooms with their ultra-comfy loungers and sip on herbal teas.
And if you’re feeling a bit peckish, their cuisine options are surprisingly delightful and healthy to boot. Oh, and don’t forget to pack your swimsuits because their indoor pool is perfect for a leisurely swim or just floating around.
Pro tip:
Make sure to book your treatments in advance because they get super busy, especially on weekends. Also, there are often special weekend packages that include a bit of everything, so definitely check those out!
Tour Royal Lochnagar Distillery and sample fine Scotch whiskies
Website: http://www.royallochnagardistillery.com/
Address: Crathie, Balmoral, Ballater
Contact details: +44 133 974 2700
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- Royal Lochnagar: The Essence Tour – starts at £20
- Royal Lochnagar Expressions Tour – starts at £35
- Royal Lochnagar Warehouse Tasting (no tour) – starts at £70
- Royal Lochnagar x Twisted Ankle Brewery Tasting – starts at £35
Royal Lochnagar Distillery is a bit like stepping into a rich historical tapestry, but with the added bonus of whisky tastings. They give you a fantastic behind-the-scenes tour of the distillery, and the guides are super knowledgeable.
You’ll learn loads about how they make their famous Scotch whisky—it’s fascinating! Now, the best part, obviously, is the tasting session, where you’ll get to sample some really fine Scotch whiskies.
They even walk you through the best ways to taste and appreciate the different notes and flavours. And if you guys are not whisky connoisseurs, no worries—they make it super approachable.
Pro tip:
After the tour, make sure to stop by their gift shop. They’ve got some exclusive releases that you won’t find anywhere else, so it’s a great place to pick up a few bottles as souvenirs.
Make sure you’ve got a plan for a designated driver or book a stay nearby because those tastings can sneak up on you!
Hike through Cairngorms National Park’s scenic trails
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Website: https://cairngorms.co.uk/
Address: Cairngorms
Contact details: +44 147 987 3535
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Cost: Free entry
If you and your crew love the outdoors, you’ve got to head to Cairngorms National Park. The hiking trails are simply breathtaking, with vast landscapes, serene lochs, and wildlife that comes right out of a nature documentary.
There are trails for all levels, whether you’re up for a challenging hike or just a nice, easy stroll. One of the best trails is the one around Loch Muick, a loop trail that offers stunning views of the loch and the surrounding mountains.
Plus, there are plenty of spots where you can stop for a picnic. Another great trail is the Ryvoan Pass, which takes you through some gorgeous pine forests and past the mystical An Lochan Uaine (The Green Lochan).
Pro tip:
Definitely bring your camera because you’ll want to capture these moments. And dress in layers and bring waterproof gear because the weather can be quite unpredictable in the Cairngorms.
Enjoy a lunch at Malmaison Bar & Grill’s
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Website: https://www.malmaison.com/locations/aberdeen/bar-grill/menus/
Address: 49-53 Queen’s Rd.
Contact details: +44 122 450 7097
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Cost: £££
If you guys are looking to treat yourself (and who isn’t?) head over to Malmaison Bar & Grill for a special lunch. The menu is absolutely to die for, with a great range of dishes that cover everything from juicy steaks to fresh seafood.
Expect to indulge with some great appetisers, like the mouthwatering calamari or the perfectly seasoned soup of the day. For mains, their steak frites are legendary, and if you’re into seafood, the lobster risotto is something you’ll be talking about for weeks.
They also have a killer wine list, so make sure to pair your meal with a nice bottle or two. Moreover, their Sunday lunch is a fan favourite, offering a mix of savoury and sweet delights.
Pro tip:
Malmaison’s bar also crafts some amazing cocktails, so a post-lunch drink might be in order. Also, you’ll want to make a reservation ahead of time, especially if you’re going on the weekend, as it can get quite busy.
Visit Crathes Castle and explore its historic gardens
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Website: http://www.nts.org.uk/property/crathes-castle-garden-and-estate/
Address: Crathes, Banchory
Contact details: +44 133 084 4525
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- Adult – £16
- Family – £36.50
- One Adult Family – £31.50
- Concession – £12.50
- Young Scot – £1
- Garden Token (Adult) – £7
- Wild Wood Adventure Play (Child) – £4
- Ages under 4 – Free
Crathes Castle is stunning, with towers and ivy-covered walls that are just begging for a group selfie. But what really sets this place apart are the gardens—they’re absolutely magnificent.
You and your friends can wander through walled gardens, ancient yew hedges, and even a little woodland area. Inside, you can take a guided tour that will give you the lowdown on its history, including all the quirky and spooky stories that come with it.
The rooms are filled with antique furniture, paintings, and fascinating artefacts. After your castle and garden tour, there’s a cafe on site where you can grab some delicious home-baked goods and refreshing drinks.
Pro tip:
Make sure to keep an eye out for the resident ghost (yes, really!). The Green Lady is a famous part of Crathes Castle’s lore, and who knows, you might just catch a glimpse!
Dine at The Boat Inn in Aboyne for local cuisine
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Website: http://www.theboatinnaboyne.co.uk/
Address: Charlestown Rd., Aboyne
Contact details: +44 133 988 6137
Operating hours:
- Check in – 3 PM
- Check out – 10 AM
Cost: ££
Aboyne’s Boat Inn is right along the River Dee, and it prides itself on serving up some top-notch local fare. When you stop by, don’t skip their seafood dishes—they’re really celebrating the local catch!
The menu often changes because it’s all about what’s fresh and in season, so you’re always in for a tasty surprise. Plus, they have vegetarian options that even non-veggies rave about.
Additionally, The Boat Inn also serves a fine selection of Scottish whiskies and local ales. So, plan to linger a little and raise a glass (or two) as you chat away the hours.
Pro tip:
If you’re visiting in the summer, see if you can nab a spot outside by the river. The view is lovely, and it adds a little something special to your meal.
Discover maritime history at the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses
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Website: http://lighthousemuseum.org.uk/
Address: Stevenson Rd., Fraserburgh
Contact details: +44 134 651 1022
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- Adult – £11
- Concession – £9
- Child (under 16) – £5
- Ages 5 and under – Free
- Family Ticket – £24
The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses is such a fascinating peek into Scotland’s maritime history. The museum sits in Fraserburgh, and it’s got everything from lighthouse lenses to exhibitions about the folks who used to keep those beacons bright.
It’s more captivating than you’d expect, and you guys will learn how they navigated those stormy seas back in the day. Then, you can take a guided tour that takes you up to the Kinnaird Head Lighthouse, where the views from up are simply stunning.
And even if it’s a bit grey and moody (as it so often is in Scotland), it only adds to the experience. While the museum is family-friendly, it’s still a blast for just the gals, as you get to dive deep into a remarkable part of local history.
Pro tip:
Be sure to check out their gift shop. They have quirky, nautical trinkets and gifts that are absolute must-haves, and you’d be hard-pressed to find them anywhere else.
Explore the iconic ruins of Dunnottar Castle on the cliff-top
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Website: https://www.dunnottarcastle.co.uk/
Address: Stonehaven
Contact details: +44 156 976 6320
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- Adult – £11.50
- Concession (over 65’s and students with valid photo ID) – £10.50
- Child (age 5 – 15) – £5
- Family (2 adults + 2 children) – £29
- Family (1 adult + 2 children) – £19
- Guide book (available at Castle ticket kiosk) – £6
- Adult Annual Pass (available at Castle ticket kiosk) – £26
- Child Annual Pass (available at Castle ticket kiosk) – £13
Perched dramatically on a clifftop near Stonehaven, Dunnottar Castle’s ruins are full of stories—everything from brutal sieges to royal intrigue. Exploring this place feels like stepping straight into a Game of Thrones episode.
When you arrive, you’ll walk a winding path up to the entrance, and once you’re in, you can start wandering the ruins. Each nook and cranny tells a different tale, and it’s wild to think about all those centuries of history that played out right where you’re standing.
Plus, the views! Seriously, the North Sea backdrop makes everything feel that bit more epic.
Pro tip:
Remember to wear sturdy shoes and bring a jacket, even in summer. The sea breeze can be quite biting, and it’s a bit of a workout getting up those hills.
Experience adventure at Go Ape in Glentress Forest
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Website: https://goape.co.uk/locations/glentress-forest
Address: Falla Brae Car Park Glentress Forest
Contact details: +44 160 389 5500
Operating hours:
- Friday – 10 AM to 2 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 4:30 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 3 PM
Cost: ££ (Prices are available upon booking)
If you’re up for a bit of adventure and don’t mind heights, Go Ape in Glentress Forest is worth every mile from Aberdeen. It’s an adrenaline-pumping treetop adventure that’ll test your courage and potentially get you zip-lining through the forest canopy.
There are rope ladders, Tarzan swings, and more—perfect for a day packed with laughter and a sense of accomplishment. You get a safety briefing first, so no worries if you’re new to this sort of thing.
Once you’re harnessed in, you can explore the trail at your own pace. Glentress is also a fantastic spot for taking in some of the natural beauty that Scotland has to offer, with lush greenery and plenty of wildlife to spot.
Pro tip:
Remember to book in advance to secure your spot, especially if you’re going during a weekend or holiday. You don’t want to get there just to find that it’s all a no-go.
Play laser tag at Battle Grounds Adventure in Banchory
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Website: https://www.battlescotland.co.uk/
Address: Druggam, Woodlands Rd., Banchory
Contact details: +44 777 377 1741
Operating hours:
- Thursday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- Paintball – starts at £30
- Laser Tag – starts at £20
Now, if you’ve got a competitive streak, Battle Grounds Adventure in Banchory is calling your name with its laser tag setup. This isn’t just any old laser tag—it’s set up in an outdoor arena that feels like a battle zone.
Here, you’re split into teams to strategize, hide, and ambush your opponents—all in good fun, of course. Plus, it’s all outdoor, so you’re getting that extra health boost from being in nature.
They provide all the gear you need, so you don’t need to worry about bringing anything along. It’s all pretty smooth sailing from the booking process right through to the post-game debrief among friends.
Pro tip:
Make sure you guys wear comfortable clothes and shoes, because you’ll be running around a lot. And maybe try to go in the morning when it’s less crowded, so you get more time in the field.
