Countesswells
Come to Countesswells
Different woodland types and a variety of short and long trails make this a very popular forest for all ages. These attractive woods were once part of the Countesswells estate and are well-established, with huge conifers creating a cathedral-like atmosphere near the car park and colourful beech, larch and pine elsewhere.
The forest trails are designed for cyclists and walkers and give gentle views over Aberdeenshire farmland and towards the city of Aberdeen. They can be combined into a memorable circular route passing through the length of the forest.
Countesswells is one of six forest areas in easy reach of Aberdeen. Why not explore the others? Our handy Forests of Aberdeenshire guide (PDF 4.1MB) has all the details.
Notice
- Diversions in place on the trails due to windblown trees. Please follow all signage.
Life’s essentials
There are 24-hour accessible public toilets at the Library in Cults and plenty of places to eat in Cults and Bieldside.
Car parking
Please note, parking charges are as follows:
- £1 for up to 1 hour
- £1.50 for up to 3 hours
- £2 for all day
- £8 for minibus and coach all day
Season passes are also available. For more information please contact us.
Walking trails
Beech Tree Trail
A short stroll through the huge conifers and colourful beech trees that line the route.
Mostly firm gravel surface. Section of uneven earthy path with exposed tree roots and muddy areas. Fairly steep slopes.
1 ¼ miles / 2.1 km Allow ¾ hour
The Big Tree Trail
Wander through giant Sitka spruce and majestic Douglas fir on this short jaunt through the forest.
Firm gravel surface with some uneven sections. Moderate slopes. Some parts may be muddy after rain.
1 ½ miles / 2.5 km Allow 1 hour
Gairn Hill Trail
A fine circuit of Gairn Hill Wood, which is home to a variety of trees and some good views across Aberdeenshire.
Firm gravel surface throughout, with some rocky, rooty and muddy parts. Long moderate slopes with some short steeper ramps.
2 ¾ miles / 4.4 km Allow 1½ hours
How to get here
From Aberdeen on the A93, turn right (north) at the Bieldside church junction. Turn right again at the T-junction, then first left. The forest car park is on the left, 200 yards from the T-junction.
From Aberdeen on the A944, turn left (south) at the Kingswells roundabout. The forest car park is on your right, approx 1 mile / 1.5 km from the roundabout.
The entrance to the car park is at grid reference NJ 870 045.
Using SatNav?
AB15 8QD is the closest postcode.
Nearby places
There are more trails at Foggieton, just half a mile away.
Share your experience
For questions and complaints, please contact us directly.
