This is the westernmost parish in the Gordon District of the eastern Cairngorms. It is a place mixing rugged Highland beauty with fertile farmland on the banks of the River Don. The River Don rises in the eastern Cairngorms and winds its way eastward through Corgarff, Strathdon, Glenkindie and Kildrummy; on its way to the rest of Aberdeenshire. The area has its own community web site www.upperdonside.org.uk

Kildrummy Castle Gardens, has a unique collection of alpines and shrubs in a landscaped setting with water garden, when in the area, drop into the Kidrummy Inn for a wee drink or nip. The Mossat Burn Nursery and Water Garden, has a great selection of plants and aquatic plants. Its a great little place to have a peruse. Glenbuchat Castle,  an ancient seat of the Gordons built in 1590. Corgarff Castle, restored 16th century castle with star shaped ramparts set amid spectacular scenery.

Set in the breathtaking Highlands the Kildrummy Hotel enjoys an enviable location amongst some of the worlds most beautiful scenery offering some of the best fine wine and dining in the area.  At  Colquhonnie Hotel the food is freshly prepared by their award-winning chef, using the finest quality local produce. Allargue Arms is a friendly informal local hotel with great food overlooking the historic Corgarff castle.  The Glenkindie Arms Hotel offer great food and drink at an affordable price with a brasserie menu including dishes such as haddock & chips, braised beef & lamb casserole.

Ballindalloch Castle golf course with its nine holes and eighteen tees, the course provides a fair test for golfers of all standards and is well placed to become known as the finest course in Scotland with this particular configuration. Head over to Royal deeside and play courses such as Ballater and Braemar.

Upper Donside is the location of a unique event each year on the fourth Saturday of August. Nowhere else will you see the March of the Clansmen. The Men of Lonach, in full Highland dress and armed with pikes and Lochaber battleaxes, march around the arena, having already accomplished a long march early in the morning round the homes of the patrons of the Gathering.

The Lost Gallery is one of the most interesting and unusual venues in Northern Scotland, with an excitingly eclectic selection of paintings, sculpture and photography. The Goodfellows' association with the Scottish Sculpture Workshop provides access to large scale international and domestic sculpture. You must drop by if you are in the area.