Cullen Ice Cream and beach walk

Don’t tell the Italian’s but this little unassuming ice cream shop makes the best Ice Cream in the world. Remember to ask for the ‘homemade’ variety (not the ones on display in front of you). If you are feeling bold you can try and ask for it in the local Scots dialect. This entails furrowing your eyebrows whilst narrowing in on the big metal tubs behind the counter, then quickly raising them again and grunting loudly, whilst cocking your head back in a sort of back-to-front nod. No, kidding!

Lonach Highland Games

Champagne & Strawberries on the verandah of a local fishing cabin, Huntly.

Arriving in true Scottish style, you’re ushered to your perfectly poised fishing log cabin by a faithful 30-year old land rover.  Lean back in the deck chairs provided (and quite possibly an entire winter wardrobe ~ also provided) and let the therapeutic sound of the river gently massage away all thoughts, whilst sipping of a chilled glass of bubbly.  Life’s little luxuries.

A ‘loo’ stop at Glenfiddich Distillery, Dufftown.

Yes, you did read it right.  Probably advisable to take a picture, because lets face it, who is going to believe that you visited the home of a world-renowned whisky to ‘spend a penny’! You’ll see why when you get there.  Wink! 

Lunch at Kimberly Inn, Findhorn

The people who frequent the Kimberly Inn are as interesting to watch, as the food is to eat!  Hint: Eat from the Chef’s specials on the chalkboard in front of you.  If Scotland’s burly weather permits, try sit outside, you’ll then be able to watch the tidal mayhem of Findhorns enthusiastic estuary.  If you’re not afraid of ‘fairies’ & tie-dye, then a rummage through the local organic store at the Findhorn Foundation is highly recommended.  

Sunset wildlife cruise and dinner at harbour restaurant ~ Gardenstown.

This one’s a thrill a minute!  One moment you’re crashing through the waves on a high-powered semi-rigid inflatable, then in an instant, the engines go quiet and you’re sitting motionless while your eyes focus their attention on the deep blue and the faintest stir that pierces the surface.  A brewing storm nearby requires you to out run pockets of rain showers, but all is rewarded when you return to the tranquillity that lies within the harbour walls or Gardenstown, a glass of crisp chardonnay and the freshest langoustines you’ll ever have, served in a burly pint glass!   Heaven.

Swim in a waterfall

I hear you laugh! I meant without the dry suit! Now you’re frowning. Two fabulous waterfall experiences are (i) Pattack Falls on the A86 & (ii) Truim Falls at Crudenbeg. Naturally, all usual common sense and sensibility should prevail when swimming rock pools.

The ‘Gooder Hike’, (Coire an Lochain) Cairngorm National Park, Aviemore.

Be King of your Castle with this moderately strenuous hill-hike that leads you to the rooftop of Scotland and be spoilt forever with its magnificent views over the surrounding Cairngorm National Park. Up there, hidden away from the world, are two of the clearest fresh water pools you will ever see! Have a dip, I did!