May 2012
First opened in 1883, Duthie Park is of great historical significance to Aberdeen. The original Victorian band stand situated in the middle of the park is still regularly used today by busking musicians. The park also boasts an impressive rose mountain which plays host to a stunning summer blossom of over 120,000 roses, a must-see for anyone with an interest in nature. Also contained within Duthie Park are the winter gardens which are considered the largest covered gardens in Europe (Polmuir Road).

April 2013
Be part of the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, on 2-6 May, and enjoy the best whisky, local food and live music. Visitors from every corner of the world will be entertained by 300 events, with whisky nosing, photography, cooking and tours all planned (spiritofspeyside.com).

January 2013
Glenglassaugh Distillery, just outside Portsoy, was established in 1875 and produces an iconic single malt Scotch whisky. The distillery has recently opened a visitor centre packed with information about the history and mechanics of this highly regarded Highland malt (tel: 01261 842 367).

October 2012
Adrenaline junkies can get their fix at Transition Extreme's extensive facilities, which include skateboarding, rock climbing, BMX biking, inline skating and their brand-new TX trekking aerial assault course, extreme drop and zip wire. A must for all extreme sports fanatics! (Links Road; tel: 01224 626 279; transition-extreme.com).