​This post is part of a paid partnership with North East 250 to showcase the diversity along this scenic Scottish road route

The beauty of Scotland, in my humble opinion, is the vast variety of scenery over relatively short distances. Over recent years, a number of bitesize road routes have sprung up around the country to showcase the diversity across various regions. I'll be honest though, I'm not always a fan of following streams of cars, motorbikes and campervans that bimble along the popular Scottish highways like a trail of ants. I've always been one that prefers to take the road less travelled when I have the option.

The North East 250 is a road route that ticks that box because despite traversing through some well trodden landscapes, it frequently navigates quieter roads and offers up many diversions that are well off the tourist trail. I recently spent 3 days exploring this route, often shortened to the NE250, and there was no shortage of variety in scenery or attractions. My itinerary options were countless but I tried to include an assortment of activities as an introduction to the wide array on offer. Of course, you might plan a completely different trip from me and that is the beauty of the North East 250, you can design a road trip that matches your own interests. 

You can discover what I chose to include during my 3 day trip below and I've added in some of my other favourite things to do from previous visits to the area at the bottom of this blog in case you need some more inspiration.

As the name might suggest, the North East 250 (or NE250) is a 250 mile circular road trip around the North East of Scotland, taking in the regions of Aberdeenshire and Moray from the city to the mountains and coast. As the route is circular, you could start at any point and travel clockwise or anti-clockwise - it is up to you.

I started at the Spittal of Glenshee and travelled clockwise - this is a good starting option for those travelling from Glasgow or Edinburgh and serves up a dramatic start to your adventure as the road rises up through a mountain pass that takes in the Devil's Elbow Viewpoint before reaching the Glenshee Ski Centre on the highest A road in the UK.

Dubbed 'The Ultimate Road Trip to the Heart of Scotland', the route takes in the mountains and forests of the Cairngorms National Park, the grand castles of Royal Deeside, the iconic whisky distilleries of Speyside, charming coastal villages, nature reserves brimming with wildlife and the granite city of Aberdeen.

You can follow the route that I took below, I've also marked the points of interest mentioned in this blog post. My North East 250 map is interactive so you can delve deeper if you wish.

For those that don't know, the region of Angus is nestled on the east coast of Scotland just north of Dundee and south of Aberdeenshire. It extends from the scenic Angus glens in the west to sweeping beaches and rugged cliffs along its eastern fringes. The lush verdant landscape in-between is punctuated with grand castles and quaint towns.

Boasting such diversity over a relatively small area means most visitors will find a variety of activities to suit their interests without having to travel too far. To help narrow down and plan an itinerary tailored to your own preferences, Visit Angus have developed the Angus Tour which allows you to pick and choose from their suggested itineraries or design your own adventure.

When I got the chance to plan my own Angus Tour, the stunning coastline was firmly on my radar, along with immersing myself in nature, exploring some lesser known history, discovering some hidden gems and eating all the local food - basically, all my favourite things to do!

I opted to spend my time between the main coastal towns of Montrose, Arbroath and Carnoustie. They are all fairly close to one another so it was easy to dip my toes in each town and stop by some other worthwhile gems along the way. I spent 2 days in Angus and rather than rushing around packing loads in to each day, I explored at a more leisurely pace, spending more time at fewer attractions, and to be honest, this is my preferred way to travel if I get the chance.

However, if you want to maximise your time, there are plenty more things to do in each of these Angus towns so I have listed everything that I got up to below, with a few more ideas thrown in for those of you looking to fill your itinerary with even more options.

​​The town of Montrose is bordered by the North Sea on one side and a large tidal basin on the other. Designated as a nature reserve, Montrose Basin is home to a variety of wildlife all year round and attracts over 100,000 migratory birds during the winter.

I've visited a couple of times now and it feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of the town. A good starting point is The Scottish Wildlife Trust Visitor Centre with a café and panoramic views of the estuary. Staff are on hand to point out wildlife of note and provide access to telescopes and binoculars. This is also the place to pick up a leaflet detailing the numerous walking trails.

On this visit I opted to follow the Lurgie's Walk, starting at the Old Montrose Pier it is an easy walk of 2km each way. Although I could see the outline of the town across the water, all I could hear was bird song and the occasional splash of jumping fish. I was instantly transported to a world of bees and butterflies flitting around vivid purple thistles, and swans gliding across the glassy water. It felt a bit like I had stepped in to a fairy tale! Oh, and the best bit, I had it all to myself.
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As this trip was largely about soaking up the scenery and nature of the Angus coast, I don't think I could have found a better place to while away an hour or two. I literally felt my stresses melt away as the sun warmed up my bones as I sat on a makeshift bench watching the insects and birds go about their business.

If you're visiting Montrose, take some time out to stop by the Basin and immerse yourself in nature, I can guarantee you will feel all the better for it!

For me, Lunan Bay is the most beautiful stretch of beach in Angus and I'm not alone in thinking that, every year it attracts a growing number of visitors. Miles of golden sand backed by towering grassy dunes and bookmarked by cliffs is overlooked by the ruins Red Castle creating a scene of beauty and drama.

Over the years I've walked along Lunan Bay on several occasions, usually finished off with some tea and cake in the café. This time I wandered from the beach viewpoint, along the road and up to the castle for breath-taking views and while this is still an undeniably pretty place, I was disappointed to come across the scorch marked remnants of a campfire and discarded toilet paper among the dunes, but I shouldn't have been surprised, like many parts of the country, a rise in popularity has created extra pressure on a fragile landscape and attracted some unfortunate anti-social behaviour

​I spent 2 nights at Brandon Lodge Bed and Breakfast, located in a quiet rural setting, just 3 miles from the historic harbour town of Portsoy in Aberdeenshire. Check out my recommended itineraries below to discover some of the best things to do in and around Portsoy.

THE ACCOMMODATION
​​Once comprising three linked stone cottages, Brandon Lodge has been converted into a beautiful and spacious home that reflects its heritage and coastal location. Surrounded by tranquil countryside, extensive views, bird song and curious deer that wander up the driveway - it is the perfect place for a relaxed getaway. 

Despite feeling a world away from the stresses and noises of modern life, it is only a short detour from the main road and only a few miles from the picturesque harbour town of Portsoy, one of my favourite villages on the east coast. I could quite happily spend hours at the 17th century harbour watching the tide ebb and flow, an experience enhanced by some local ice-cream or a fish supper!

I need to give a special big shout out to owner, Lorna, for going above and beyond to meet my gluten free diet, not only did she put some gluten free biscuit bars on my hospitality tray to enjoy with my tea, and sourced items for my breakfast, she also baked some gluten free pancakes to welcome me on my arrival. Not only is this the first time a host has went to that extra effort for me, it turned out it was the first time she had ever made them which I would never have guessed as they were totally deeeeelicious - there was not a crumb left!

THE BREAKFAST

I always let hosts know in advance that I’m gluten free as this lets them prepare some breakfast options which meant Lorna was able to offer me berries and yoghurt followed by a good choice of cooked items and toast.

I could tell you about how good my breakfast was – and it was! - however, the thing I appreciated the most was Lorna quickly getting to work in the kitchen to make sure I was well fed when I had to leave earlier than anticipated in the morning due to a family emergency. She also offered to cancel a dinner booking I had made at a local hotel that evening so I had less to worry about. Her genuine efforts to find ways to reduce my stress and keep me on an even keel when I was in a total tizz helped more than I can express in this blog post.

I've said it before but I feel the need to mention it again, my experience of the bed and breakfast accommodation on this trip was seriously impressive, every host went the extra mile to provide a high standard of personal service which is one of the reasons they are all handpicked members of Scotland's Best B&Bs. But it went beyond that, every host showed genuine warmth and I left every property feeling like I had made a new friend.

​If you're planning a trip to Portsoy, I can absolutely recommend a stay with Lorna at Brandon Lodge.

​Now you have your accommodation sorted, you might be wondering how best to spend your time in Portsoy so I've suggested 3 road trips that include some of the best scenery in the area.

​I spent 2 nights at Spean Lodge Bed and Breakfast, located in the centre of Spean Bridge, an attractive village only 15 minutes from the bustling town of Fort William. Check out my recommended itineraries below to discover some of the best things to do in and around Spean Bridge.

THE ACCOMMODATION
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Spean Lodge sits in the heart of the village of Spean Bridge within walking distance of the main amenities including a few restaurants and the railway station. The famous Commando Memorial dedicated to the original British Commando Forces is also close by, a popular tourist spot with open views towards Ben Nevis.

The Lodge dates back to the late Georgian era and retains many original features. Owners Glen and Suzanne both have an interest in history and art which is reflected in the period decor and furnishings of the house. Even the sprawling grounds have pedigree, being landscaped by a professional gardener from Kew in London in the mid-19th century.

The spacious accommodation has the feel of a historic country home and a stay here does give you a bygone taste of life as a Highland Laird or Lady. I can't think of anywhere else I've come across on my travels around Scotland where you can get this experience at such an incredibly good nightly rate, not to mention all the added personal touches that come with staying at a B&B.

My guest room at Spean Lodge was traditionally furnished in keeping with the style of the house. I don't think I've ever come across proper china tea cups on a hospitality tray before but they were a fitting addition and I felt even more like a Highland Lady as I sat looking out my bedroom window to the pretty garden sipping on my tea!

The room decor may be period but it had the usual 21st century comforts that you might expect including a TV and very modern bathroom with walk-in shower. I was delighted to find a generous supply of toiletries from the Highland Soap Company which is located a short distance away just outside Fort William.

As with all the places I stayed at on this trip, my bed was very comfortable and the whole experience was very homely. Glen and Suzanne are another couple of lovely hosts who are on hand to share their local knowledge if you require it while giving you space to relax and unwind if that's what you prefer.

THE BREAKFAST
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Although there was an extensive list of breakfast options, I stuck to my usual cooked items on the first day and was pleased to have the choice of gluten free sausages again which is definitely not always the case in places I've stayed at although every B&B on this trip had them on the menu which was brilliant.

On the second morning I opted for Suzanne's scrambled egg and smoked salmon special which made a nice change and lived up to Glen's hype! It was also recommended by another guest so I definitely had to give it a try.

Thanks to Glen's excellent hosting, all the guests were soon chatting to each other and swapping travel tips. As a solo traveller surrounded by couples at separate tables it can sometimes be awkward to work your way in to someone else's conversation so I do appreciate it when the host breaks the ice and includes everyone in morning discussions. One of the aspects of staying at a B&B I enjoy the most is the social interaction as I really enjoy hearing everyone's travel stories.

Not only is Spean Lodge a member of Scotland's Best B&Bs, it has also been awarded a 4 star gold. I really can't recommend a stay here enough as it is fantastic value for such a distinguished pace to stay.

Glen and Suzanne are also interesting and amiable hosts that make you feel very welcome from the moment you arrive.

Now you have your accommodation sorted, you might be wondering how best to spend your time in Spean Bridge so I've suggested 3 road trips that include some of the best scenery in the area.

THREE ROAD TRIP ITINERARIES

Using Spean Lodge Bed and Breakfast as your base, these routes are all easy to follow. I have included all the highlights so you can personalise each route to your own interests. It is unlikely you will have the time to to visit every place listed so I suggest picking a few places that you definitely want to include and adding in more attractions if you have time left over.

OPTION 1 - SPEAN BRIDGE & FORT WILLIAM
​BEST FOR - HISTORY & SCENERY