4.3
(181)
4,009
hikers
19
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Cove And Altens, Scotland, are characterized by a dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, and serene coves. The region offers a blend of accessible pathways and natural features, including shingle beaches and the prominent Tullos Hill. These landscapes provide diverse terrain suitable for various fitness levels, making it an appealing destination for outdoor activities.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
3
hikers
5.44km
01:28
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
8
hikers
10.2km
02:45
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
6
hikers
8.85km
02:24
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
9
hikers
3.38km
00:55
50m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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take a rest on the hill and enjoy the vista of Aberdeen
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Nice looking footbridge made of fieldstones over the railroad line from Aberdeen to the south. From here you have a beautiful view of the North Sea.
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Doonie's Hill stands at 68m high and provides some lovely views across to Aberdeen's harbour and out to the North Sea.
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Tullos Hill is situated around 2 miles south of Aberdeen central. The hill stands at 83m high and provides some fantastic views over to Aberdeen city and out to the North Sea. It's a popular local spot for hikers, dog walkers, and joggers,
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Burnbanks Haven is a cove that extends back some 100 metres from the North Sea coastline. A coastal path will lead you around the cove, where you'll be treated to some fantastic vistas showing off the wild coastline of Scotland's east coast.
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Kincorth Hill is an area of gorse scrub, heathland and woodland on the southern fringes of Aberdeen. It's a nice place to walk around with good views across the city, out to sea and inland over the Dee towards the Cairngorms. There are four colour coded walking routes around the nature reserve. The 1.5km Yellow route, 2.5km Blue route, 3.3km Black route and the 3.5km Red route.
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The high point and trig point on Kincorth Hill is at 105m. From here you get great views over Aberdeen and out to sea. The best viewpoint however is probably a bit west of here with views west across the Dee and towards the Cairngorms.
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There are nearly 20 family-friendly hiking trails around Cove And Altens, with 14 of them being easy-rated, making them perfect for families with children of all ages.
The trails in Cove And Altens offer a blend of accessible pathways and engaging natural features. Families can enjoy exploring rugged coastlines, spotting wildlife like whales and dolphins, and discovering secluded coves. Many routes are designed with manageable distances and gentle paths, ensuring an enjoyable experience for everyone.
The family-friendly trails in Cove And Altens are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.2 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning coastal views, the variety of landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that make for a pleasant outing with children.
Yes, for a gentle outing, consider the Doonies and Tullos Hill loop. This easy 5.4 km route offers a pleasant walk suitable for various fitness levels and is often manageable for families with younger children. Another great option is the Cove Bay Stone Sculptures – Burnbanks Haven Cove loop from Balmoral Stadium, which is an easy 5.1 km trail.
Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly routes in Cove And Altens are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Doonies and Tullos Hill loop is a popular circular option that takes you through diverse landscapes.
The coastline around Cove and Altens is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and secluded coves. While some coastal paths can be moderate, the area generally offers continuous sea views. The Burnbanks Haven Cove – Cliff Bay loop from Cove Bay, though moderate, provides an excellent opportunity to experience the rugged coastal terrain and discover hidden inlets.
Many trails in Cove And Altens are dog-friendly, making it easy to bring your furry family members along. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or near cliff edges, and to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
While hiking, you can discover several points of interest. The Old Deeside Railway Line offers a traffic-free path for longer walks, and the picturesque Cove Bay Harbour provides a glimpse into the area's fishing history. You might also encounter heritage information cairns scattered around the community, offering insights into local history.
Yes, parking is generally available at various starting points for the trails in Cove And Altens. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages on komoot, or by checking local signage upon arrival.
Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant weather for family hiking in Cove And Altens, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, the coastal paths can be enjoyed year-round, with autumn providing beautiful colours and winter offering crisp, clear views, though conditions can be more challenging.
Yes, the coastline around Cove and Altens features shingle beaches and rock pools, particularly along the Balnagask to Cove coast. These areas are perfect for families to explore mini salt-marsh habitats and discover marine life, adding an extra element of fun to your hike.
While specific cafes directly on every trail might be limited, the villages and towns surrounding Cove And Altens, such as Cove Bay, offer local amenities where you can find refreshments. It's a good idea to check local listings for cafes and pubs in the area before you set out.


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