(183) Logie Coldstone-Wells of Poldhu-Auchnerran Circuit (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
*** DUE TO A BRIDGE BEING WASHED AWAY AFTER WAYPOINT 5 PLEASE CURRENTLY FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS FOR OFF-ROAD MOBILITY SCOOTER USERS AT WAYPOINT 4 ***
A very scenic circuit taking in mature open woodland, grassy meadows, a moorland vantage point, and mixed farmland. The curious and charming Poldhu Wells, visited at an early point on the route are an interesting feature of the walk which is mostly over gently undulating ground, with one fairly gradual ascent to a viewpoint on Roar Hill, under Morven.

Duration: 3.25 hours.

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(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.

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(174) Nethy Bridge-Castle Roy Ramble (Highland)

Route Summary
An easy woodland and riverside walk with a gradual and modest ascent to the open Highland landscape surrounding the Abernethy Old Kirk and the ruins of Castle Roy where there are great views of the Cairngorm Mountains.

Duration: 3 hours.

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(173) Grantown-Glen Beg Circuit (Highland)

Route Summary
A scenic walk in the low hills to the N of Grantown, enjoying wide-open views. There is added variety near the end of the route with a pretty section along the River Spey before entering mature pine forest, and passing a tranquil lochan on the edge of the impressive townscape.

Duration: 2.5 hours.

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(167) Linn of Dee-Glen Lui Townships (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
Although overlooked by high hills this is a gentle hike in a special place, suitable for most walkers. It is readily possible to modify the route to take in only the River Dee and Lui Water sections, or the walk distance can be extended by 3.5 km, to the Derry Hunting Lodge.

Duration: 3 hours.

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(166) Braemar-Two Rivers Ramble (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
When visiting the attractive village of Braemar, this walk makes for a gentle introduction to the highland landscape of Upper Strathdee, with tantalising glimpses of the Cairngorms.

Duration: 2 hours.

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(096) Tomintoul-River Avon Circuit (Moray)

Route Summary
This gentle excursion into scenic Glen Avon belies the undeserved reputation of Tomintoul for bleak and austere landscapes. There is no doubt that this upland river valley experiences some harsh times in wintry weather, but at other times it is a sparkling and sublime landscape.

Duration: 2.5 hours. Continue reading “(096) Tomintoul-River Avon Circuit (Moray)”

(090) Water of Tanar-Knockie Hill-Queen’s Road (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
A hugely enjoyable little hike, with gentle ascents, in the varied and visually stimulating special natural environment around the braes of Glen Tanar, taking in the pretty riverside, tranquil lochs, old pine forest, and open farmland.

Duration: 2.5 hours. Continue reading “(090) Water of Tanar-Knockie Hill-Queen’s Road (Aberdeenshire)”

(075) Braemar-Creag Choinnich Circuit (Aberdeenshire)

Route Summary
An invigorating climb through mature pines to the summit of Creag Choinnich, overlooking Braemar, is rewarded by a fine array of mountain views. The route then drops lower to encircle the hill, while still offering some enchanting outlooks, particularly of the upper Dee Valley.

Duration: 3 hours. Continue reading “(075) Braemar-Creag Choinnich Circuit (Aberdeenshire)”