Embrace the beauty of a Chapelton winter

There are few things more refreshing than a crisp, cold Scottish winter morning. Aberdeenshire is rich in natural beauty as well as well as offering a host of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. Chapelton and its surrounding area is no exception to the rule.

Our guide to winter in Chapelton and the local area highlights five of the community’s favourite activities and attractions.

Stroll through a natural wonder

Less than five miles away from Chapelton is the Red Moss of Netherley. Located next to the small village of Netherley, the raised bog is a varied habitat with marsh and woodland. A variety of wildlife flourishes in this environment including heather and bog-land plants including Sphagnum moss and carnivorous sundews. Perfect for kids and adults alike, visitors may spot inhabitants as diverse as the toad and dragonfly depending on when they visit.

The walk is easy going over an access path – but do ensure that you stick to it, as deep pools and ditches within the bog can be dangerous if walked upon.

Learn more about the Red Moss by visiting https://scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/reserve/red-moss-of-netherley/

Go winter wildlife spotting

With a favourable climate and plenty of food to enjoy, the skies above Chapelton are the perfect place to spot a diverse range of migrating birds. Recent sightings have included the Snow Goose, the diminutive Siberian Chiffchaff and distinctive American Wigeon.

Arboriculturalists will also appreciate the wide variety of tree species available throughout Chapelton and its surroundings, including Silver Birch, Gorse, various willows and the large beech hedge which can be found on the Chapelton Trail.

Learn more about wildlife in Aberdeenshire on VisitABDN (https://www.visitabdn.com/what-to-do/aberdeen/nature-and-wildlife/).

Indulge yourself at Teacake

Come in from the cold by relaxing with a hot drink or warming bowl of soup in the town’s very own café, Teacake. Located within the popular focal point of Hume Square, the family-run business uses choice ingredients from local suppliers.  Keep an eye on their Facebook page to keep up with its regularly-updated menu. You can also reserve a table or request a gift voucher to share with a loved one.

Explore the market town of Stonehaven

With a fine range of independent shops to explore, Stonehaven is an alluring town less than ten miles from Chapelton. It’s also home to the acclaimed Gallery at Fifty Five, which stocks an array of artwork from up-and-coming Scottish artists and is the perfect location to obtain a stylish piece with which to personalise your new home.

The town is also home to HIP Life; an independent clothing store which stocks handmade, Fairtrade clothing from Nepal, India and Mexico.

You can learn more about Gallery at Fifty Five at http://www.galleryatfiftyfive.co.uk/.

Related Articles

Houses for sale Aberdeenshire: AJC Homes phase 2 has launched at Benton Crescent, Chapelton

Springtime delights: 6 must-do activities in and around Stonehaven