Gardenstown and Crovie

The oldest part of Gardenstown - Seatown - is a tightly packed huddle of houses hemmed in by the cliffs. This walk links this old fishing village by the coast path to picturesque but tiny Crovie before returning on minor roads.

Terrain

Shore path (with some rough stones) then minor roads with fair amount of ascent.

Public Transport

Bus to Gardenstown from Banff

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Start

Gardenstown. Map and directions.

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Bog Factor (key)

Walk Statistics

Distance: 4.5km/2.75 miles
Time: 1.5 - 2 hours
Ascent: 138m (Profile)
Grid Ref: NJ802649

Maps / GPS

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Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

Turn right at the bottom of the hill in Gardenstown and drive past the fishermen's garages to reach a parking area just beyond. It looks impossible to walk round the foot of the cliffs here - unless the tide is well out - but in fact there is a wonderful little path that keeps just above the water right under the cliffs. There has been rockfall here in the past so take care, and note that at high tide the first section could be impossible. Cross the small area of beach and continue tight against the cliffs; soon the built path begins and heads up a flight of steps to pass through a gap in the rocks.

Stage 2

Enjoy the view back to Gardenstown before the path continues round the corner, with iron chains to protect against the drop into the water. Crovie now comes into view ahead, a straggle of tiny cottages crammed into a space so small that there is no access for cars. Pass a memorial to the folk from the two villages who helped in the rescue of the crew of the SS Vigilant which ran aground here in 1906. The path soon reaches Crovie. The walk continues up the steep road which climbs to the right, but make sure you explore this delightful place first. As in other Aberdeenshire fishing villages, most of the houses are built gable-on to the sea to protect against the storms, whilst the path on the seaward side has a long line for hanging out washing.

Stage 3

Follow the minor road which curves left and then right as it climbs steeply from Crovie. After passing a residents car park on the left, there is a public car park and picnic area higher up o n the right. It is well worth detouring to the viewpoint here for a beautiful view back down to Crovie.

Stage 4

Continue up the road to reach a junction after about 700 metres, beside an attractive wooden bus-shelter. Turn right here to follow the road into the upper part of Gardenstown. When the road meets a large one, almost opposite the shop, turn right and walk down the very steep road back towards the harbour in Gardenstown. At the fork you could turn briefly left before turning right on the front to walk across the back of the harbour on the way back to the start.

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Route Profile

Walking can be dangerous and is done entirely at your own risk. Information is provided free of charge; it is each walkers' responsibility to check it and navigate using a map and compass.