A path leads directly from the door along to the wonderful sands of Gamrie Bay where dogs can run and play freely and maybe even go for a paddle. Even if the weather isn’t ideal it is still a very pretty spot for a walk or a bit of rock pooling.

For some really beautiful views of the village it is worth climbing up the hill by the beach to see the interesting ruined Kirk of St John and, a bit further up the hill, is an expansive viewpoint that photographers will not want to miss.

Gardenstown is a very picturesque village to wander around and there is a pub that serves excellent meals featuring, unsurprisingly given its location, lots of fresh seafood. There is also a fine selection of whiskies to sample with only a short walk home after.

A small local shop services the village but Fraserburgh (15.5 miles) is really the place for stocking up on supplies.

The surrounding area is a haven for wildlife and the RSPB sites at Troup Head (3 miles) and Loch of Strathbeg (21 miles) are in easy reach for a visit. A stretch of the coastline at Troup Head has even been designated as a SSSI (site of special scientific interest) due to its large gannet colony.

It is only half an hour’s drive to Fraserburgh or you can relax and take the train along the coastline for some shopping or just exploring. The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses in the town makes an interesting pitstop with its fascinating displays on the history of lighthouses through the years.

Heading west from Gardenstown golfers will find themselves spoilt for choice with lovely coastal courses to try out at Macduff (8 miles), Banff (9 miles) and Cullen (23 miles).