Highlight • Natural Monument
Dunnottar Castle
Hiking
4.9
(74)
Cycling
5.0
(62)
Road cycling
4.7
(15)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Tips
September 20, 2022
Hiking
•
February 6, 2023
Hiking
The castle is a paid entry attraction, but it is worth a visit and quite amazing inside. You can also get great views of the castle from the beaches and cliff tops on either side, so you don't have to pay and it's still a very interesting walk past.
September 13, 2018
Cycling
The castle is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. in summer. Opening times vary in winter. You can find more detailed information on the website dunnottarcastle.co.uk.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Dunnottar Castle
4.6
(94)
345
hikers
9.11km
02:29
130m
130m
This moderate 5.7-mile (9.1 km) loop from Stonehaven offers a diverse hiking experience, taking about 2 hours and 28 minutes to complete with 427 feet (130 metres) of elevation gain. You will start and end at the picturesque Stonehaven harbour, moving through mature broadleaf woodland and country lanes. The route then leads to a dramatic cliff-top path, providing views of the rugged coastline and the iconic Dunottar Castle perched on its rocky headland.
As you hike, you will encounter varied terrain, including paved sections, well-maintained woodland paths, and gravel surfaces. Some parts can be steep, especially when wet, so be sure-footed. The trail is not suitable for off-road mobility scooters due to narrow paths on steep lateral slopes and potential fallen trees in the woodland sections.
The highlight of this trail is Dunottar Castle, a ruined medieval fortress with a rich history, famous for hiding the Scottish Crown Jewels. Its strategic location on a headland, surrounded by 160-foot cliffs, makes it a dramatic sight. Beyond the castle, you can also see the unique Stonehaven War Memorial and the quirky Shell House in the woods, adding to the route's character.
4.8
(4)
15
riders
42.1km
02:40
450m
450m
The Dunnottar Castle & Inverbervie loop from Stonehaven is a difficult touring bicycle ride, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience along Scotland's dramatic coastline. You will cover 26.1 miles (42.1 km) with a significant 1482 feet (452 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 39 minutes to complete. The route treats you to rugged cliffs, pebble beaches, and views of the North Sea, with the impressive Dunnottar Castle perched dramatically on a cliff-edge as a key highlight.
Expect varied terrain, including paved roads and some unpaved or gravel sections, especially near natural attractions. The paths leading to Dunnottar Castle from Stonehaven's harbor promenade are extremely steep, and you might need to push your bike in certain spots. There are considerable climbs, such as the initial ascent out of Stonehaven and another significant climb on the A92 when departing Inverbervie northward.
This loop is notable for its blend of coastal beauty, rural landscapes, and historical significance. Dunnottar Castle, a medieval fortress that once hid the Scottish Crown Jewels, provides a profound sense of history and a dramatic backdrop to your ride. You will also pass through charming coastal villages like Johnshaven and Inverbervie, which offer opportunities for refreshments and a glimpse into local life.
5
riders
55.1km
02:32
560m
560m
Embark on a challenging road cycling adventure with the Dunnottar Castle, Inverberve & Johnshaven coastal loop from Stonehaven. This moderate route spans 34.2 miles (55.1 km) and features 1851 feet (564 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 32 minutes to complete. You will experience striking coastline and spectacular cliff-top views, with the dramatic Dunnottar Castle perched on a rugged headland as a constant visual anchor.
While primarily on well-paved surfaces, be prepared for some unpaved segments and significant elevation changes that demand good to very good fitness levels. The route largely uses quieter roads, but you might encounter short stretches on busier 'A' roads, so exercise caution. When you reach Dunnottar Castle, the immediate area is steep and rugged, requiring you to dismount and walk the final approach to explore the historic site.
This loop offers a rich blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Dunnottar Castle itself is famed for its role in the Wars of Scottish Independence and for secretly housing the Scottish Crown Jewels. Beyond the castle, you can explore Johnshaven, a charming coastal village with a rich fishing history, or consider a short diversion to Kinneff Old Church, another site where the Crown Jewels were once hidden.
Details
Informations
Elevation 70 m
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