101 places to go – Portsoy
This week’s destination is highly recommended for those keen to explore a relatively undisturbed corner of Scotland, where cultural heritage is proudly celebrated, views are gorgeously expansive and holidays live long in the memory. Despite offering more than enough attractions to justify a visit in any season, we think June is the best month to visit the burgh of Portsoy in Aberdeenshire.
Nestled on the northern coast of Scotland between Aberdeen and Inverness, Portsoy celebrates its maritime heritage on June 23rd and 24th with the 19th Traditional Boat Festival. Not just a showcase of boat building, restoration and sailing – though that obviously plays a large part – the festival also features music, art, knitting, weaving and embroidery. You’ll also find a more participatory celebration of the less skilled arts of eating, drinking and being merry!
Thousands of visitors will be visiting 2012’s festival, but if you can’t make it there’s plenty to enjoy when the ships have sailed! Here are a few recommendations…
• One of the best ways to get the measure of a place is to chat to the locals. The Salmon Bothy in Portsoy goes one better by allowing you to chat to the local volunteers who run this lovely community museum whilst exploring its historical exhibits and tracing your roots! Discover the history of the local salmon fishing trade, explore your family tree in the genealogical research facility or enjoy musical events upstairs. It’s a veritable ‘one-stop’ shop for local knowledge and entertainment!
• In keeping with Portsoy’s spirit of local preservation, the Glenglassaugh Distillery only uses traditional equipment and methods to produce its award-winning single malts. Local barley, pure water and a dramatic setting over Sandend Bay all contribute to create a wonderfully unique whisky. If you fancy a more modern tipple you’ll also find a couple of additional products that use the same distillation process as single malt but forego the extended aging. You can also enjoy all of Glenglassaugh’s wares from the onsite shop.
• Few historical remains are as romantic as Findlater Castle. Set atop a cliff overlooking the wild waters of the Moray Firth, the castle’s ruins are a beautiful illustration of a region steeped in history and beauty. You only need to take a look at the lovely pic accompanying this article to admire the remote beauty of this stunning location.
We still have availability for the Portsoy Boat Festival weekend, check out our featured range of holiday cottages in the region today or visit cottages4you for a wealth of great properties all over the UK.
Find more info on the Portsoy Boat festival website.
