Aberdeen suits the independent-minded thrill-seeker exhilarated by the idea of exploring its beaches and mountains. If you’re the outdoorsy type, then the universities of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon cater to you. Creative hearts will be stimulated here, too, following in the footsteps of artistic legends such as Lord Byron and Annie Lennox.
Woodland societies, gliding clubs and other groups allow you to dive right in. Head to the North Sea coast to swim or surf, or to the Cairngorms National Park just west of the city, which is twice the size of the Lake District. Visitors can hike, white-water raft and mountain-bike — and when the snow falls, skiers as well as snowboarders can bolt down Glenshee’s 36 runs.
Known as the Silver City, Aberdeen