Kinnaber Woods

The woodlands stretch out from Montrose like a green lung - dense, quiet, and proper rewarding if you know what you're after. Kinnaber Woods is an Aberdeenshire spot that doesn't shout about itself, which is half its appeal. You'll find mature trees creating a canopy that blocks out the worst of Scottish weather, with paths that wind through without the crowds you'd get at more famous beauty spots.

It's the kind of place where serious walkers come to clear their heads rather than tick off Instagram moments. The woodland floor is soft underfoot - moss, fallen needles, the works - and there's genuine quiet here. Families will find it manageable for a couple of hours if the kids are reasonably sturdy walkers; younger ones might lose interest once the novelty of trees wears off.

The main draw is simply the walk itself and the chance to breathe in proper Highlands air without driving two hours into the glens. There's something about the way the light filters through the canopy in late afternoon that makes the trip worthwhile. If you're staying at St Cyrus Holiday Park down the road, this sits nicely as a half-day excursion - close enough not to eat up your morning, far enough that you feel like you've actually gone somewhere.

No facilities to speak of, so bring water. Free to access, no gates or nonsense. Go in autumn when the understory lightens up and you can actually see through the wood.