The Best Places to See Heather in Aberdeenshire

When summer fades into late July and August, Aberdeenshire’s landscapes burst into a purple haze of heather. It carpets hillsides, forests, and coastal paths, creating some of the most iconic Scottish scenery. If you’re planning a trip to Aberdeenshire, here are the best places to experience heather at its peak along with photography tips to capture it at its most magical.

Why is Heather Synonymous with Scotland?

Heather (Calluna vulgaris) has become one of Scotland’s most enduring natural symbols. Its resilience in the face of harsh weather, poor soils, and wind-swept hills makes it a fitting emblem of the Scottish spirit. Historically, heather has been more than just a pretty flower, it had many practical uses too. Crofters used it for bedding, roofing, and even brewing heather ale, a drink dating back to ancient times. It also has deep roots in Scottish folklore, symbolising good luck and protection.

However, Scotland’s heather moorlands aren’t entirely natural. Many were shaped by centuries of grazing and managed burning for grouse shooting. Today, these practices and climate change present challenges, leading to debates about biodiversity and conservation.

When Does Heather Bloom?

Heather is at its best from late July through early September, with the very start of August often being peak season. Timing your visit within this window ensures you’ll see the landscape at its most purple.

Top Spots to See Heather in Aberdeenshire

1. Muir of Dinnet

There’s plenty to explore at this National Nature Reserve. From the famous Burn O’Vat, a dramatic glacial pothole that’s like stepping into another world, to gentle lochside paths where dragonflies dance over the water. In August and early September, the forest floor is alive with that unmistakable haze of purple heather, and it’s hard not to stop every few steps for another photo.

How to get there:
Muir of Dinnet sits along the A93 between Aboyne and Ballater. If you’re driving from Aberdeen, it’s about an hour’s journey west. There’s a car park at the visitor centre with plenty of information boards and trail maps to help you plan your walk. If you’re coming by public transport, Stagecoach buses run to Dinnet from Aberdeen via Aboyne – just check the latest timetable before you go.

2. Clachnaben

If you’re looking for one of the most iconic hill walks in Aberdeenshire during heather season, Clachnaben is hard to beat. Its distinctive granite tor stands proud on the summit, making it easy to spot from miles away, and the views from the top are every bit as rewarding as you’d hope.

In late summer, the hillsides on the way up are brushed with purple, and on a sunny day the colours absolutely glow. The path winds steadily through moorland, with big open skies and that sense of space that feels so good for the soul. It’s not the longest hill walk, but it does have a bit of a climb.

How to get there:
The walk starts from the car park at Millden (postcode AB31 6LX), just off the B974 between Fettercairn and Banchory. From Aberdeen, it’s around a 50 minute to 1hr drive. There’s no public transport directly to the start, so driving is the easiest option.

3. Loch Ullachie

A bit further afield but a bit of a hidden gem - Loch Ullachie is a serene spot fringed with forests and hillsides blanketed in heather. Its still waters reflect the colour beautifully, especially on calm mornings when mist hangs low over the loch.

How to get there:
Loch Ullachie is a short drive from Ballater, just off the South Deeside Road. From Aberdeen, it’s around an hour and 15 minutes by car. There’s no official car park, but there are a few lay-bys where you can park considerately before picking up one of the woodland paths that lead towards the loch.

4. The Tappie Tower, Kirkhill Forest

The walk to Tappie Tower is a local favourite, offering a mix of forest trails, open viewpoints, and a glimpse into Aberdeenshire’s history. Starting from the Kirkhill Forest car park, the route winds through towering conifers and patches of heather until you reach Tappie Tower - a granite structure built in 1861 as a memorial to William Dingwall Fordyce, a local MP. From the tower’s base, you’re rewarded with panoramic views across Aberdeenshire. On a clear day, you can see Bennachie, the rolling farmland, and even the distant North Sea.

The circular walk is around 3 miles (5 km) and moderately easy, making it perfect for families, dog walkers, and anyone looking for a peaceful woodland hike. In late summer, the trail is lined with purple heather, adding a splash of colour to the green woodland.

How to get there:
Kirkhill Forest is just off the A96 between Aberdeen and Inverurie, making it one of the easiest heather walks to reach from the city. There’s a main car park at the Kirkhill Forest entrance, about 20 minutes from Aberdeen by car (postcode AB21 0UB works for sat nav). From the car park, follow the waymarked trails up to Tappie Tower – the climb is steady but manageable, and you’ll be up there in around 30–40 minutes.

5. Hackley Bay

For something a little different, head to Hackley Bay. This hidden sandy cove sits within the Forvie National Nature Reserve and feels wonderfully remote, even though it’s not far from Aberdeen. In late summer, the dunes and heathland around Hackley Bay are brushed with purple heather, adding a burst of colour to an already stunning landscape. The sound of the sea, the cry of seabirds, and the endless sky above make this a place that feels good for the soul.

How to get there:
Hackley Bay is on the Forvie Nature Reserve, near Newburgh. From Aberdeen, it’s about a 30-minute drive north. The easiest starting point is the Forvie Visitor Centre (postcode AB41 6AX). From there, you can follow the waymarked trail towards Hackley Bay – it’s roughly 2 miles each way, with paths through heather-clad dunes before dropping down to the beach.

Photography Tips for Capturing Heather at Its Best

Shoot Early or Late – Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for soft light. In summer, the heather glows beautifully during golden hour, and on misty mornings, the heather glistens and takes on a mystical purple hue.
Golden Hour Magic – When the sun is low, it lights up the purple tones beautifully. Heather really comes alive under soft, golden light.
After Sunset for Natural Colours – If you want the true, rich colour of the heather without warm colour casts, stay a little after sunset when the light is even and soft.
Look for Contrast – Heather pairs beautifully with green pine, dark moorland, or the blues of lochs and sky.
Get Low – Shoot from a low angle to create depth and make the heather fill the frame.