Why Aberdeenshire is a must for UK staycations this summer

dailyrecord.co.uk:

With the recent explosion in staycation tourism, people around the UK are discovering some of the lesser-known spots that deserve to be spotlighted around the country, locations to rival even the best holidays you'll find on the continent.And with Scotland much in demand, thanks to its breathtaking scenery, welcoming atmosphere and mouthwatering food and drink, nowhere exemplifies this better than the northeast and Aberdeenshire in particular, where you'll find all of the above and more.Offering stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, expansive walking trails, heaps of history and foodie adventures aplenty, Aberdeenshire will have you wanting to come back again and again – and wondering why you'd left it so long to come in the first place.From the wild beauty of the Cairngorms and the rugged coastlines you’ll find there (all 165 miles of them) to the stylish city of Aberdeen and some of the world's favourite whisky distilleries, there is so much to see and do there.With some sites dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze Age, and others marked by the Picts and the Medieval era, Aberdeenshire is packed with historical significance.Discover the romance of the Pictish Stones dotted around the countryside or visit one of the region's many castles – there are 263 in total – ranging from the striking clifftop ruins of Findlater Castle and Dunnottar Castle overlooking the North Sea to the majesty of Aberdeenshire’s most famous example, the stately Balmoral Castle, the Scottish home of the Royal Family.While, for those seeking something a little more magic for their little ones, the pink-walled Craigievar Castle with its soaring turrets and towers is unmissable and should be recognisable as the inspiration for Walt Disney’s iconic