Exploring & Walking in Royal Deeside a part of The Cairngorm National Park

Royal Deeside offers some of the best walking in Scotland and as would be expected is a very popular activity.

Several Munros (mountains over 3,000 ft.) can be accessed from the Braemar area. In the Southern Cairngorms, to the west and north there are 12, while at Glenshee and Lochnagar, to the south and east you will find 14 and Cairnwell, to the south and west there are 8.

You’re guaranteed to feel a sense of achievement after you’ve climbed to the peak of one of the mountains. For the beginner “Munro-bagger”, Mount Keen is a long but straightforward climb. Set within in Glen Tanar Estate, 14 mile round trip to the summit is a great way to climb your first Munro.

Named after Hugh Munro, the first person to compile a list of them in 1891, there were originally 283 Munros. The list has grown and shrunk over the years, as mountains are re-measured. At the moment, the current total is 282.

Munro Bagging is the ultimate challenge of climbing them all!

But don’t worry if climbing mountains is not really your thing, there are lots of other options to choose from.

Hill-walking experiences for all abilities with literally hundreds of footpaths, trails and walks to suit all levels looking for a picturesque wander. Breathe deep and take in the fresh air and wonderful scenery.

If you feel that you need to explore the higher ground with the expertise of a local guide then why not get in touch with Ian Murray of Lochnagar - Fishing & Wilderness Guide

Royal Deeside is a heavily forested area where the autumn colours are spectacular. There are several excellent way-marked walks and interpretive signs, perfect for a leisurely stroll with the family.

Equally don’t miss a walk along a section of the beautiful River Dee, as it twists, turns and tumbles it way down through the valley. Or take a saunter around a loch, such as Muick or Kinnord. The area has plenty of open countryside, country paths, forest tracks and circular walks if you prefer to stroll an easy country mile or two on level ground, suitable for walkers of all abilities, young and old.

You will find a huge range of local walking maps, books and leaflets in outlets throughout our area. Check out the Visitor Information Centres, as they are a good place for vital local knowledge. Staying locally in the area, then don’t forget to ask your accommodation provider as that might lead to some wonderful place you would not otherwise have found.

Check out some of the 13 trails & walks available at DeesideWalks.com or even the Explore Royal Deeside GeoTour

Whichever mountain, hill, forest or country route you choose please don’t forgot your camera to capture the memory.

Whilst walking in Scotland, please be sure to follow the Country Code at all times:

• Guard against all risk of fire.
• Leave all gates as you find them.
• Use stiles when provided.
• Keep dogs under close control.
• Keep to paths across farmland.
• Avoid damaging fences, hedges and walls.
• Leave no litter of any kind.
• Safeguard water supplies.
• Protect wildlife, plants and trees.
• Go carefully on country roads.
• Respect the life of the countryside.
• Take only photographs, leave only footprints.

(Scottish Walks – Country Code)

In winter and snow conditions if you are venturing into the mountains please do remember consult the Scottish Avalanche Information Service homepage for up to date information. (www.sais.gov.uk)  

Stay safe wherever you walk or venture.

Coming Spring 20

SignUp Now