North East 250: Speyside, Coast and Cairngorms

Follow the core North East 250 touring circuit through Deeside, the Cairngorms, Speyside and the Moray and North Sea coasts. This version excludes the out-and-back Glenshee gateway and town-centre stop spurs. Choose nearby towns and attractions independently from the driving line.

Driving roads near Aberdeen. Town and attraction visits are optional. · 205 miles · 306 minutes estimated driving · Circular

NE250

Photo: Remapped

Highlights along the way

The Lecht

The high A939 crossing links Deeside with Tomintoul and Speyside.

Moray Firth villages

The coastal section links fishing towns and their harbour landscapes.

North Sea coast

The eastern return contrasts open coastal country with the approach to Aberdeen.

Before you set off

Allow several days. The Lecht is exposed to winter conditions; keep distillery visits separate from driving and arrange a designated driver. Check current road closures and conditions before travel. Driving time is an estimate without stops or live traffic. The plotted route follows the driving roads. Nearby towns, attractions and photo subjects are optional independent visits; leave and rejoin the route only if you choose. No stop detours are included in the driving line.

More drives to explore

Explore the route map