Union St in Aberdeen

Aberdeen has many charms, but they take a while to reveal themselves - and the granite city's shopping delights, in particular, take some effort to uncover.

Union Street is unquestionably the city's main thoroughfare, but the most truly chic and exclusive booty is reserved for those willing to venture off the beaten track.

That's not to say that the main street has no shopping of note - Jaeger can be found here, along with well-established jewellers, Jamieson and Carry. Gap is preparing to open later this year.

However, a number of years ago, town planners decided that Aberdeen would pioneer the concept of the indoor shopping centre in Scotland. And it is these developments that have attracted some of the business that would once have gone to Union Street itself. The Academy Centre, for instance, houses a sizeable French Connection, a very fashionable jewellery designer in Sandy Menzies and the wonderfully aromatic Lush cosmetics.

The Pier is also located here - an essential supplier of home furnishings, ranging from china to cushions. Built around a charming courtyard, the Academy is encased in glass, which makes for a light and airy atmosphere and also creates a stark contrast with the trademark granite buildings round about.

The quaint premises of Belmont Street include The Big Cheese, which claims to have more than 150 award-winning cheeses on offer. Nearby is Juniper, a deceptively spacious arts and crafts store with a vast selection of gifts, from jewellery to paintings. A few minutes' walk away is the kind of surprise that every fashion enthusiast dreams of. Kafka's stylish guest list includes such names as Prada, Burberry and Armani. Definitely a 'must visit'.

If you would prefer to create your own unique outfit, Special Occasions in the Galleria offers a dressmaking service - from suits to ball gowns. It is in the upmarket West End where most purchasing power is concentrated. Here, as you zig-zag your way along Thistle Street, for instance, you will see the fabled oil money being splashed around on a spectacular array of desirable labels.

Lifestyle, a large and lavish boutique which opened only a few weeks ago, displays Escada. In Verdict, a few doors down, Versace's bright signature colours are flaunted.

Luxurious lingerie at Disrobe, Hamish Munro's assortment of heels and handbags and a florist named David make this paradise for the city's female population. The Belgian selection at West End Chocolates can be found on the opposite side of the street - temptation tied up in little bows.

Nova, on adjacent Chapel Street, is the ultimate gift shop. Ola Gorie jewellery, Crabtree and Evelyn goodies and an extensive range of engaging wedding stationery make it hard to confine yourself to browsing.

An essential element of a productive day's retail therapy is an energising lunch. When undergoing the treatment in the West End maintain your energy levels at the Olive Tree restaurant, on Queens Road - a favourite choice for locals, offering a delicious French-Mediterranean menu at reasonable prices.

If staying overnight, the inordinately plush Simpson's Hotel, with its great central location, is the perfect base. If a rural setting appeals more, there are plenty of alternatives on Royal Deeside.

Variety is not a problem in Aberdeen if you know where to look. But, as anyone who has been on a shopping expedition there will recommend, wear flat shoes - you may be in for a trek.

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