One of the first things many guests notice at Clovenstone Lodges is the lodge names sound distinctly Scottish and sometimes a little tricky to pronounce!

Each lodge name is inspired by the surrounding landscape, particularly the nearby Bennachie hill range, a landmark that dominates the skyline of Aberdeenshire. For generations, Bennachie has been an important part of the region’s landscape and heritage. Today it remains one of the most popular walking destinations in Aberdeenshire, drawing visitors to its trails, panoramic viewpoints and historic hillfort.

These names reflect the rich cultural heritage of the area and connect each lodge to the landscape that surrounds it.

So, if you’ve ever wondered how to pronounce them, here’s a quick guide.

Bennachie (Ben-a-hee)

Perhaps the most famous landmark in the area, Bennachie is the distinctive hill range that dominates the skyline of central Aberdeenshire.

Visible from miles around, Bennachie has long been a favourite destination for walkers, hikers and outdoor lovers visiting the region. The hill range offers a network of scenic trails leading through woodland and open hillside before reaching its dramatic granite summits.

The two highest and most recognisable peaks are:

• Oxen Craig – 529 metres above sea level
• Mither Tap – 518 metres above sea level

Both summits reward walkers with incredible panoramic views stretching across the Aberdeenshire countryside, with clear days offering views as far as the North Sea and the Cairngorm Mountains.

Mither Tap (My-ther Tap)

With its distinctive rocky crown, Mither Tap is perhaps the most iconic of Bennachie’s peaks.

Standing at 518 metres, the summit is crowned by the remains of an ancient hill fort known as The Mither Tap Fort, believed to date back over 2,000 years.

The name itself is thought to come from the Scots word “mither” meaning mother, referring to the peak’s shape rising protectively above the surrounding hills.

Today it remains one of Aberdeenshire’s most rewarding and memorable walks.

Oxen Craig (Ox-en Crayg)

Slightly higher than Mither Tap, Oxen Craig rises to 529 metres, making it the highest point of the Bennachie range.

The name reflects Scotland’s agricultural heritage, with “oxen” referring to the working cattle historically used in farming across the region.

The walk to Oxen Craig is popular with visitors and locals alike, offering sweeping views across farmland, forests and rolling hills, a landscape that perfectly captures the beauty of Aberdeenshire.

Craigshannoch (Crayg-shan-ock)

Like many Scottish place names, Craigshannoch comes from Gaelic roots.

“Craig” means rocky hill or crag, a common feature in the rugged Scottish landscape.

Garioch (Gee-ree)

Garioch refers to the historic region of Aberdeenshire surrounding Inverurie.

Often described as “the granary of Aberdeenshire”, Garioch is known for its fertile farmland, rolling countryside and welcoming communities.

By naming the lodges after these local landmarks, Clovenstone reflects the landscape that surrounds it, helping guests feel connected to the hills, history and character of Aberdeenshire during their stay.

Walking Bennachie during your stay

If the lodge names have sparked your curiosity, why not experience the landscape that inspired them during your stay?

The Bennachie hill range is located just a short drive from Clovenstone Lodges and is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in Aberdeenshire. With a network of well-marked walking trails, it offers routes suitable for everything from gentle woodland walks to more challenging climbs to the summit.

Many visitors choose to hike to Mither Tap or Oxen Craig, the two highest peaks in the range. Reaching the top rewards walkers with incredible panoramic views across the Aberdeenshire countryside, stretching for miles on a clear day.

For those looking for a slower pace, the Bennachie Visitor Centre offers scenic trails through woodland, perfect for enjoying the fresh air and spotting local wildlife.

After a day exploring the hills, returning to your lodge at Clovenstone feels even more rewarding, especially when a relaxing soak in the hot tub is waiting for you.