The Grampian area is one of the largest regions in Scotland comprising
the former counties of Aberdeenshire, Banffshire, Kincardineshire and
Morayshire. It is acknowledged for its quantity and quality of castles as well
as whisky distilleries, but there are many more natural delights found around
the coast of the varied interior stretching all the way to Strathspey on its
western side.
The Grampian region is relatively flat with the east boundary meeting the
highlands and taking on the typical highland terrain characteristics. The most
dominant geographical feature being the miles and miles of stunning coastline to
the north and east, ranging from rugged cliff tops to long sandy beaches.
Dolphins, porpoises and even killer whales can be seen from the north coast. The
famous River Spey enters the sea between Lossiemouth and Buckie and the much
lesser known River Lossie runs through the market town of Elgin. Springing from
the Grampian Mountains, the River North Esk empties into the North Sea at St
Cyrus Bay and otters can be seen around the mouth of the river. A peculiar
method of salmon fishing is employed here using vertical nets hung on stakes and
stretched out into the sea. These create a unique photo opportunity.
The Grampian region has over 5,000 places of prehistoric interest, ranging from
earliest long cairns, the Blue Cairn of Balnagowan of the 4th Millennium BC,
where Neolithic people were buried and worshipped their ancestors communally, to
the Pictish symbol stones carved in the early-Historic period, formerly called
'the Dark Age', e.g. Picardy Stone Insch of 5th/6th AD, proclaiming the power of
individual families and territorial riches, Christian cross slabs and decorated
ecclesiastic monuments of about 9th - 11th AD.
Its main historic claim to fame is that David II and his 16-year old French
wife were beached here after being chased by the English. The King bestowed a
Royal Charter on the town for his safe deliverance, but, unbelievably, the town
misplaced the document and had to apply for a replacement.
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