Start the day at Perthumie Bay with a 1km guided walk across some of the oldest rocks on the route — metamorphosed ocean-floor sediments that were once buried deep below an ancient sea, now pushed up to the surface as part of the Highland Terrane. A perfect introduction to the geological story of the day.

A panoramic stop with sweeping views across the Highland Boundary Fault — the great geological dividing line that splits Scotland in two. The perfect place to get your bearings and see the bigger picture before we head down to the coast.

A 1km coastal walk where the geological story really comes to life. We'll examine volcanic intrusions, Old Red Sandstone deposits, and the structures that mark the Midland Valley — Scotland's central geological lowland. Cliffs, sea air, and 400 million years of history underfoot.

A short walk around one of Scotland's prettiest harbours, examining the fault contacts, structures, and sedimentary features visible right in the harbour walls. A working harbour, fishing boats, and a story written in the rocks.

A relaxed lunch overlooking Stonehaven harbour. Time to refuel, watch the boats, and take a breath. (Lunch cost not included; budget around £15–£25 per person.)

A 1km walk down to a hidden coastal waterfall, surrounded by ancient Devonian lava flows and a thriving seabird colony. One of the most dramatic and least-visited places on the Aberdeenshire coast. Some steep paths, but worth every step.

The grand finale — Fettercairn Distillery, founded in 1824 and famous for its distinctive cooling-ring stills, a process found nowhere else in Scotch whisky. A guided tour of the working distillery, followed by a tasting of classic Scottish malts. By the time you're holding the dram, you'll know exactly why this distillery is where it is.