Happy Easter…the days are stretching, temperatures are rising and school holidays are on the horizon.

It’s perfect reason to gather the gang and get out and about exploring, and why not say hello to Stonehaven?

If you’re first time visitors, after being wowed by its picturesque setting and incredible sea views, the next thing that will strike you is the sheer volume and variety of things to do.

Food lovers, sporty types, shoppers, sightseers and adventurous young explorers will all find fantastic experiences to try.

But with so much on offer, you might need a guide to some of the best things to see and do. Our team at Dalriada Lodges share their top picks of activities that are guaranteed to put a spring in your step – have a happy Easter from our family to yours!

Take a Stonehaven Sea Safari

Kelly, managing director and adventure seeker

Safaris aren’t just for land-lovers – hop onboard a Stonehaven Sea Safari boat and reawaken the senses on a coastline tour that offers mind blowing views of the dramatic Dunnottar Castle along with Stonehaven and its picture-perfect harbour and bay. Take in the wildlife – did you know that this stretch of sea offers one of the best spots to catch a glimpse of bottlenose dolphins? You’re likely to spy puffins, seals, guillemots and razor bills too. An unforgettable trip for all the family.

Shop in Stonehaven

Sharon, font of all retail knowledge

Stonehaven’s independent retailers are a fabulous find. With a retro vibe, My Beautiful Caravan stocks carefully chosen gifts and selected vintage items. For Scottish-themed gifts and souvenirs, A Wee Bawbee is a must. You’ll get more great gift ideas at All Wrapped Up and The Gifting Tree.

Eat at The Bay Fish & Chips and Aunty Betty’s

Katie, seaside snack expert

The Bay Fish and Chips is the best – it has won awards and its fish suppers are delicious. They even do gluten free options. Be sure to save room for a yummy sweet treat from Aunty Betty’s next door which has lots and lots of flavours of ice creams and all kinds of sweets. Really tasty takeaway food!

Have A Husky Sled Dog Experience

Raven, four-legged canine guest services assistant

You don’t have to travel to Siberia to experience the thrills of husky dog travel – we've got the real deal here in Stonehaven, thanks to Husky Haven. Drive the dog team (some of my best friends) around some great trails or take a kennel tour to see these amazing pure-bred Siberian huskies.

Catch the Stonehaven Land Train

Lewis, in-house transport buff

This is the fun way to get around Stonehaven! Jump on the Land Train which runs at weekends from April and get on and off at any of the stops that you want. It has stops at the open-air swimming pool, Dunnottar Castle and lots of other places.

Play a round of golf

Bob, owner and aspiring Seve Ballesteros

Stay at Dalriada and enjoy free golf at Stonehaven Golf Club. Sharing the same panoramic views as our lodges, the course hugs the coastline and boasts 5,000 yards of cliff top tees, passing close by the centuries old Cowie chapel and graveyard with the chance to catch a glimpse of dolphins in the bay. If fresh sea air and exercise works up an appetite, Dalriada guests are welcome for freshly baked scones and lunches in the licensed clubhouse.

Explore Dunnottar Woods

Gina, woodland walker and coffee lover

The whole family will love letting loose in Dunnottar Woods.

With its clearly marked paths, it’s perfect for walks – dogs included. As you explore this deciduous woodland, there are unexpected treasures to find, like intriguing follies The Shell House and Lady Kennedy’s bath. It’s easy to reach Dunnottar Woods on foot from Dalriada, or take the car and park close by. A good walk always ends with a wee treat – at least in my book it does - and my recommendations for a cuppa and a cake are The Shamrock & Thistle, Kirktown Garden Centre or The Villa.