Forest bathing at Countesswells

Countesswells is a working forest on the western edge of the city, once part of the Countesswells estate and now looked after by Forestry and Land Scotland. Much of it is conifer, with mature Scots pine along the longer red trail. A large area was felled after storm damage, and oak, rowan, hawthorn and lime have been planted in its place, so parts of the wood are open and young while others feel tall and enclosed.

Most people start from the car park on the minor road between Kingswells and Cults. The trails are wide forest tracks, and they link into a longer circular route through the whole length of the forest, so it is easy to walk slowly without worrying about the way. The higher ground gives views over farmland towards Aberdeen. Horse riders and mountain bikers use the tracks too, so the quieter pockets tend to be off the main loop among the older pines. Expect mud in wet weather and check for local storm notices before you go.