If Scotland’s more familiar tourist trails and attractions fail to captivate you, then the Maryculter House Hotel in a quiet country village near Aberdeen is ideal for exploring the mountains, forests and rivers a little more off the beaten track. Maryculter itself is in the Lower Deeside area, some 9 miles south west of the city centre on the North and South banks of the River Dee in the ancient lands of the Culter. The lofty pines of Oldman Wood mark the boundaries of the village whilst the waters of Crynoch Burn flow idly by. Popular outdoor activities in the area include from skiing, cycling, canoeing, shooting, off-road driving, gliding, diving and rafting.

But there’s a rich seam of heritage hear to be mined too as the House – dating back to the 12th Century – at one time played host to those famous warrior-monks, the Knights Templar. The Templar built the nearby St Mary Church. Although little tangible evidence of their two hundred year sojourn at the House remains, it is believed that elements of the Master of the Templar’s Lodgings are still visible within the grounds. However it is claimed that there are still stones to be found in the area with Templar crosses inscribed on them, probably marking the old boundaries of their lands. This stylish hotel offers a combination of modern luxury with period details, such as natural stone, wood panelling, exposed fireplaces, and tall-beamed ceilings – R4U

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