Travel writing Gardenstown is a small, secluded village on the East coast of Scotland.

George Tezz (world mountaineer champion) described climbing up Gardenstown's gallant mountains as 'a hard hitting blast of life', so for those of you wanting excitement, stimulation, inspiration, motivation, fulfilment and simply a gratifying time... Gardenstown is the place to come!

White water rafting is a popular pursuit that takes place just a few miles west of Gardenstown in the Gamrie Bay activity park. It is a very intense and extreme sport, which involves a crew of 7, delving into a deep, short-tempered river with nothing more than a small boat and ropes... however it is safer than it sounds!

Gorge walking can be taken up in the powerful chasms of Gardenstown. Climbing up raging torrents into deep pools and abseiling down waterfalls is all part of the fun! A well earned lunch can sometimes be had sitting in the dappled sunlight on a sun warmed slab of rock, by a deep pool with the sound of flowing water and the distant roar of the wind caressing your ears. Tourists must go and try this on-the-edge sport; it is a once in a lifetime chance.

For those left breathless by all that physical activity, can take a quiet stroll to a place just two miles into Scotland from Gardenstown where there is a sight rarely seen anymore: wild and windy mountains dominate the horizon, between which peaty lowland moors and tiny lakes lie quietly. This place is called Harmony Earth and is a astonishment to all that stands on its holy grounds.

Discover Garpike Theatre, which is just outside Gardenstown, in the neighbouring town of Banff. Its soaring auditoria cascades with rich colours, gilt and marble statuary that greets every visitor with a hearty smile. It is a sight not to be missed. The sweet perfume of history rings in the hallways. Who needs a time travelling machine when you have Garpike theatre? The famous Eland-Bridge Castle is just twenty-one miles away and well worth a visit... even if it is just to see if the rumours about it being haunted are true!

The waterfall (which trickles right passed the cottages in the village) is like a dream. How can something so beautiful be preserved so perfectly? The passionate flow of fresh, sparkly water cascades down through the village, providing refreshing drinks, cleanliness and fun for the children!

Gardenstown's heart is a small church, which hosts many community activities that people flock from miles around to attend. The local pub is also a focus for the neighbourhood's older population to retreat while the children can play safely in the park or on the beach.

Be it fast, hard hitting danger you are after or just a bit of peace and quiet, Gardenstown is for you! Even the most detached, impassive travellers couldn't leave this special place without feeling a pang of sentiment.

Asher Garside Travel writing