Discover Aberdeenshire this summer – and help protect what makes it special

Visitors are being warmly invited to experience the very best of Aberdeenshire this summer, from its dramatic coastline and golden beaches to its rolling countryside, charming towns and attractions.

With longer days and unforgettable scenery, the region remains one of Scotland’s top destinations, offering something for everyone, whether it’s coastal walks, castle trails, wildlife spotting or simply relaxing in one of the many welcoming communities.

At the same time, Aberdeenshire Council and its partners are encouraging everyone to continue the overwhelmingly positive trend of responsible tourism, while reminding visitors that a small minority of behaviours continue to have a significant impact on local communities and the environment.

Alan Wood, director of the council’s Environment and Infrastructure Services, said: “We are proud to welcome visitors from near and far to enjoy everything Aberdeenshire has to offer from our stunning beaches and breathtaking countryside to the warm hospitality of our communities. The vast majority of those who visit treat our area with respect and we’d like to say a sincere thank you for helping to keep Aberdeenshire a safe, clean and enjoyable place for everyone.”

However, while most visits are positive, some areas once again experienced challenges last summer, including littering, dirty camping, public toileting and damage caused by barbecues and campfires.

These behaviours not only harm the environment but also place pressure on local communities, farmers, emergency services and infrastructure.

Mr Wood continued: “There is simply no place in our countryside for anti-social camping, littering or inappropriate toileting. These actions put people at risk, damage our landscapes and affect those who live and work here. By working together, everyone can help ensure Aberdeenshire remains a place of natural beauty, vibrant communities and unforgettable experiences.”

Visitors are being reminded that:

• Campfires and disposable barbecues can cause serious damage and wildfires
• Litter must be taken home or disposed of responsibly
• Public toileting is unacceptable – please use available facilities

Some of Aberdeenshire’s most popular locations, including parts of the Cairngorms such as Linn o’ Dee and Glen Muick, can become extremely busy during peak periods.

To reduce overcrowding and ensure safety:

• Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead before travelling
• If an area is full or feels too busy, move to an alternative ‘Plan B’ location
• Follow signage and instructions, including any access restrictions 

Fiona Banks, Ranger Service Coordinator, said: “We look forward to welcoming responsible visitors to the great variety of incredible open spaces and countryside sites Aberdeenshire has to offer. While everyone can enjoy these amazing places, they must do so responsibly and in accordance with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.”

So please:

•    Respect the interests of other people. Be courteous to other visitors and be considerate of those who live and work in our countryside

•    Care for the environment. Protect our wildlife and natural habitats from disturbance by considering the impacts of your activity and being a responsible dog owner

•    Take responsibility for your own actions - please act with care and pay attention to warning signs as our countryside is not risk free

•    Leave no trace, take away everything you take in – also remember to take away any dog waste

•    Camping outside a designated campsite must be lightweight and always considerate of neighbours and nature. For outdoor cooking it’s cleaner, faster and safer to use a stove than a fire. Remember to bring a trowel for toileting or bag and remove human waste. Remember access rights do not apply to motorised vehicles such as campervans or cars with roof tents.