(176) Blue Cairn Stone Circle-Hill of Allamuc Circuit (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
There are great views, particularly of the Howe of Cromar, on this varied walk up to and around the summit area of Hill of Allamuc, on the north-eastern slopes of Morven Hill. After visiting an ancient burial cairn and stone circle on the wooded ascent, a steady climb through moorland achieves some very fine outlooks in all directions.

Duration: 3 hours.

Continue reading “(176) Blue Cairn Stone Circle-Hill of Allamuc Circuit (Aberdeenshire)”

(133) Ballater-Craigendarroch Hill-River Dee Circuit (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
A shorter version of this walk is a popular challenge for visitors to Ballater on account of the steepness of the ascent and the fine views over Deeside that are achieved. Although safe, the Pass of Ballater section on this extended version of the walk may not suit everyone.

Duration: 3.5 hours. Continue reading “(133) Ballater-Craigendarroch Hill-River Dee Circuit (Aberdeenshire)”

(082) Cullen-Logie Head-Crannoch Wood Circular (Moray)

Route Summary
With lots of ups and downs, this is an energetic hike that takes in the picturesque charm of an historic coastal village, wonderful coastal scenery, farmland sweeping down to the cliff-tops, and mature pine woodland. A couple of sections are steep, and may not suit all walkers.

Duration: 3.5 hours. Continue reading “(082) Cullen-Logie Head-Crannoch Wood Circular (Moray)”

(032) Millstone Hill-Heather Brig-Bennachie Forest Loop (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
In our terms, at 12 km, this is a long walk, with almost 500 m of overall ascent. However, the slopes encountered are generally gradual in nature. The views from the summit of Millstone Hill are tremendous, and the peaceful mature forest environment is also very satisfying.

Duration: 4 hours. Continue reading “(032) Millstone Hill-Heather Brig-Bennachie Forest Loop (Aberdeenshire)”

(027) Aboyne Loch-Mortlich Hill Circular (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
The walk enjoys a particularly rewarding section around Aboyne Loch, followed by fine hillside and summit views taking in lower and upper Strathdee. There is a steep ascent to the historically interesting summit. The route is best walked when the bracken has died back!

Duration: up to 4 hours. Continue reading “(027) Aboyne Loch-Mortlich Hill Circular (Aberdeenshire)”

(025) Bennachie-Heather Brig-Mither Tap-Turnpike Road (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
This is a great hill and forest walk at the tougher end of our range, at just over 9 km and with almost 400 m overall ascent. Despite its modest height, the Mither Tap rewards the walker with stunning panoramic views. The history of the place is also fascinating and diverse.

Duration: 4 hours. Continue reading “(025) Bennachie-Heather Brig-Mither Tap-Turnpike Road (Aberdeenshire)”