Gardenstown is a small fishing village on the Aberdeenshire coast in northeast Scotland, tucked beneath steep cliffs along the Moray Firth. The village clings to a narrow strip of land between the cliff face and the sea, with the older houses built almost vertically up the rock. The approach down the single-track road is dramatic, and the village itself has kept much of its traditional character.
To the west lies a sandy beach accessible via a clifftop path that also leads to the ruins of St John's Kirk, founded around 1004 and now roofless but still atmospheric. East towards Crovie the coast becomes shingle, and the headland at Troup Head is one of the most rewarding seabird colonies on the Scottish mainland — the RSPB maintains a sanctuary here where gannets, puffins, guillemots, and razorbills breed in large numbers. The cliffs are serious enough to deserve respect, especially with children.
This stretch of the Aberdeenshire coast between Macduff and Rosehearty is sparsely visited, which is most of its appeal. Painters and photographers come for the light and the scenery; birdwatchers come for Troup Head. Everyone else comes for the silence.
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