BRAEMAR WALKERS

Walk No 49 Carn na Drochaide from Allanaquoich

2012-02-27T19:29:00.000Z

A 9.5 mile circular walk to Carn na Criche along the broad ridge to Carn na Drochaide, south of Clais nan Cat to the shoulder of Creag a'Chleirich for some outstanding views of Braemar and lunch. We descended via an old LR track to East Allt Coultan passing some small ruins (possibly an abandoned Still) to the main path to Allanaquoich.

Ascent from Allanaquoich

Beinn A Bhuird from Carn na Chriche

A discussion at Carn na Drochaide

Braemar from Creag a'Chlerich

Descent to Allanaqouich

Walk 48 Tuesday 14 February

2012-02-21T23:00:00.000Z

I missed this short reciprocal walk, south west, beside the Baddock burn turning back under the shade of An Socach to the West & Carn Aosda to the East . The Glen is treeless and there are many ruins of abandoned settlements dotted along this well trodden path. A pity work got in the way of play!
It seems that it was the first time we've had equal numbers of the sexes - including dogs!

A confrontation in the Baddock

Doug & Dorothy point out their old haunts

Supervised Lunch Stop

Walk 47 Geallaig Hill & Creag na Creache

2012-02-12T16:15:00.002Z

Track to Geallaig Hill from Braenaloin

Ascent to Geallaig Hill

A winter walk to the summit of Geallaig Hill 743 metres descending to the River Gairn and returning to the start via abandoned settlements belonging to the Clan Donald and others.

Ascent to Geallaig Hill

The Maim

Lunch stop Geallaig Hill

Walk 46 The Princes Stone revisited 24 January 2012

2012-01-30T19:06:00.000Z

A repeat walk to the Prince Regents (Albert) Stone and almost the same kind of weather.

Icy conditions made the ascent and descent a little difficult. We must arrange a return visit on a summer day.

Stob Liath overlooking the icy track

Return to the Ballochbuie

A quick pose at the Stone

The Winter Solstice December 22nd

2012-01-05T10:56:00.000Z

A quick scramble up Creag Choinnich

The walking group celebrated the shortest day,as usual, with a scramble to the top of Creag Choinnich.

Creag Choinnich

The usual seasonal fair was made available plus a wee dram. The weather prevented seeing the actual sunset.Now it's all down hill to the spring!?

God bless all those less fortunate than ourselves

Walk 45 Bob Scotts Bothy

2011-12-31T01:15:00.000Z

A walk on ice to Bob Scotts a little bit of Carol singing and a dram. A good day nothing remarkable but very seasonal.

Return from Bob Scotts. Path completely fozen

Bob Scotts

Looking towards the Larig Gru and beyond from the path to Derry Lodge

Walk 44 Clais Fhearnaig Tuesday 13 December

2011-12-18T16:45:00.000Z

The conditions nearly stopped us from doing this one.
The walk was easy but the access road was diabolical
if you were not in possession of a 4x4.!

From Linn of Dee Car Park to Glen Lui

From Linn of Dee CarPark to Glen Lui

Looking back at Glen Lui

Path to Clais Fhearnaig

Shelter in Glen Quoich

Glen Quoich Returning to the Linn of Dee

Lui Water

Clais Fhearnaig

Walk 43 Chest of Dee

2011-12-03T20:14:00.000Z

Starting off towards white bridge

The township of Tonnagaoithe

The walk was billed as Easy! Well it was until we decided, in our wisdom, to explore the northern slopes above the township of Tonnagaoithe and Creag Phadruig in search of an old abandoned still ...not easy. The start was a white one with snow falling for the first 15 minutes. After that the weather cleared to a bright and blustery day. The ground was saturated resulting in a soggy track and ..very wet boots!

Chest of Dee

We took the well defined track to the Chest of Dee then turned North over heather, picking up the very faint track leading us East onto the township of Tonnagaoithe.

View SouthWest Creag Phadruig

The skies started to threaten more snow so we stopped for our lunch break in the wooded area in between the townships of Tonnagaoithe & Tomnamoine.
After lunch and consulting the "Oracle"we ascended the west side of Alt Creag Phadruig in the hope of finding the famous last still.However, the track was a wee bit slippy and forced us to rethink our quest....we will return in the summer.
We then returned to the main path.A good walk for the time of year, getting us back to the car park an hour before sunset.

South East Chest of Dee

At the abandoned Still Tonnagaoithe

Balmoral Cairns Craig Gowan

2011-11-29T23:50:00.001Z

On the track to Prince Albert's Cairn

Always an interesting circular walk around some of the Victorian cairns on Craig Gowan.
We actually found Princess Helena's Cairn this time after a wee bit of searching.
The weather was windy but mostly dry.
We stopped for lunch at the Pricess Helena Cairn then on to Prince Arthur's Cairn,
The Purchase Cairn & Prince Leopold's.
Of course Prince Albert's is the largest and most geometrically correct.
Seven Cairns were visited this time plus the lonely statue of John Brown.

View from Pincess Helena's Cairn looking towards Prince Albert's

The Purchase Cairn

A poser at Prince Leopold's Cairn

Balmoral

John Brown

Walk 41 Carn LiathCarn na Moine 12 November 2011

2011-11-12T17:32:00.001Z

Only three walkers plus an ageing Collie undertook this scenic walk reaching a height of 818metres.

Rain on its way

We were enjoying ourselves!

The wind, as predicted,was strong coming from the South West but with a distinct icy feel; exacerbated by squally showers which dominated the first hour. The visibilty from Carn Liath was reasonabe and we were able to see the distinctive shape of Beinn Lutharn Mhor in the distance.

Carn Liath & icy wind with Beinn Luthern Mhor in background

However, our planned lunch stop at Carn Liath was posponed until we reached the shelter of the return track which runs along the nothern side of Alt Cristie Beag & Alt Cristie Mor. As we continued our descent Alt Connie was in full bore merging into the Ey burn and by this time the sun was on our backs and the sky was blue.

Looking back at the Ey burn & Alt Connie

We arrived back at the Lamont Monument Car Park ahead of schedule but satisfied.

Sun & blue skies on return

Walk No 40 Morrone Circular 3 November 2011

2011-11-11T22:07:00.000Z

The mist clearing on the ascent

A good,local walk for the start of the winter season:
We set off along the Old Military Road to the Landrover track which takes you to the top. We stopped for lunch at the arial then descended on the footpath to the Indicator approx 7.52 miles.
The hill was covered in mist which didn't clear until we were on our way down on the East side towards the village.As always I forget the views which are really quite spectacular..We are so lucky to live in a place surrounded by such rugged scenery.

Old Military Road with landrover track to Morrone on Right

Old Military Road facing North

The descent into the village

Walk 39 Quoich Slugain Quoich

2011-10-26T00:31:00.000+01:00

on the LR track to Inverchandlick Cottage

Sunday 23 October 2011
Grade: Moderate with some off track walking (approx 1.2 miles)
height gained approx 410 Metres
It was great to see such a good turn out for this 10.5 mile strole through a varied but wet landscape.The walk started at the Quoich and headed along the LR track towards Inverchandlick cottage and the obelisk erected to the memory of James Farquharson of Invercauld who died in 1862.
We turned North East onto the LR track and over Alt an Slugain staying on the LR track for approx 3.3 miles stopping at the ruined hunting lodge for lunch. Dooug couldn't resist the urge to tell us a story about a "phantom" Wellington Bomber which crashed in the area during the war years. To this day he has never been able to find any sign of wreckage.
To avoid a mud bath we cut across country for a short distance over the shoulder of Carn na Criche to pick up the footpath which lead us onto a LR track and back to the Quoich. A good day with reasonable weather. We also broke the group record for dogs in attendance ..four and not a growl! A good day a good crowd and reasonable weather. What more does a walker need on a Sunday?!!

Lunch stop at the ruined Hunting Lodge in the Fairy Glen

The ascent up to Carn na Criche Where's the path?

Descent from Carn n Criche to the Quoich

Doug tells a story

Walk Schedule

2011-10-25T11:40:00.003+01:00

Walk38 Morven Lodge

2011-10-14T19:27:00.002+01:00

The Shooting Hut at Glenfenzie

Looking down on Morven Lodge

It all started when James Keiller bought a shipload of Seville oranges which were over-ripe because the boat had been delayed by a storm - the Keiller marmalade story started that way not the walk - but the shooting lodge which he built from the profits of that enterprise was the destination around which our route was planned.

Cloud covered Morven Hill

Morven Lodge Buildings

Four walkers and a dog set off under grey skies from a point on the banks of the River Gairn where Clan MacGregor mustered for the battle of Culloden. After skirting the A939 road we headed off up to Glenfenzie where we had a coffee break in a ruined cottage which seems to be maintained for use as a shooting hut. From there we walked along the base of Tom Liath before climbing up it's side to a viewpoint from where we could see a cloud covered Morven Hill in the distance and could look down on the buildings of Morven Lodge. We walked through the scattered group of buildings which had been built as a retreat and shooting lodge by the Keiller family before taking refuge from the wind for a lunch break close to the Lary Burn. We then passed the farm buildings of Lary before making a short detour to see the chapel whose construction had been started by the MacGregor's before Culloden but, because of the loss of the majority of their menfolk in the battle, had never been completed.
By Pete

Walk 37 a walk too far

2011-10-03T01:24:00.000+01:00

Pete Drying Out in the Houf

Walk 37 was planned to take us to Loch Builg but the distance (17 miles) would have meant a full day and for it to be enjoyable we would have needed good weather. Needless to say whilst the rest of the UK was basking in record temperatures for October, Braemar and Aberdeenshire were being subjected to heavy rain! An alternative plan was discussed and agreed and three hardy souls plus two dogs set off up the 'Fairy Glen' for our foul weather alternative. We stopped for lunch at the Houf and dried out a little before returning to the Kieloch walking a more acceptable 10 miles. The Houf has stood the test of time and is still in remarkably good condition having been constructed in the early fifties. Long may it provide a dry haven for walkers.

Loch Phadriug

2011-10-03T00:59:00.000+01:00

Walk No 36 Loch PhadruigThe day started in uncertain weather conditions and over the course of the day we experienced everything from bright sunlight to fairly heavy rain with gusting winds on the top.

Header pool feeding Priests Well

Top of Meall an t-Slugain above Loch.

The walk involved a climb up to Loch Phadruig from the bridge halfway up to Loch Callater and continued to the top of Meall an t-Slugain. Loch Padruig ( Patrick's Loch is named after a priest also referred to as The Priest's Well ) From there we walked along the ridge to Creag an Loch before dropping down to the high level path along the side of Loch Callater. On the way down to the loch side we took a detour to look at a pool which feeds the stream which, on entry to the Loch, is identified on OS maps as The Priest's Well and we wondered if this was more likely to have been the site of the actual well. There is what appears to have been the site of a building alongside the pool together with a man-made depression in the ground. We had lunch at the side of Loch Callater in bright sunshine before returning to the car park.

Walk No 35 KEILOCH TO LOCH CALLATER 8 SEPTEMBER 2011

2011-09-16T11:27:00.000+01:00

It's a shame that I missed half of this varied and interesting walk.

The path leading up from Loch Callater

It took the group through the Ballochbuie Forest, passing Garbh Allt falls then following Feindallacherburn out of forest to a Stalking Shelter at 600 metres then up toward the hills of Carn An t-Sagairt ( Beag and Mor) I joined the group on the path ascending from the Loch.The weather was great and there were good views lookingdown onto Loch Callater and beyond.

Only wish I'd had the time to do the whole walk.

Loch Callater

The path up to Carn an Sagairt Mor

The Group taking a breather on the descent to Loch Callater

Distance: approx 11.9 miles 19.2Km

WALK 34 BLACK HILL 27 September 2011

2011-09-06T16:21:00.001+01:00

Burn of Mohammed

The weather forcast seemed to detera lot of peoplewhich left just a few hardened individuals to enjoy.unexpected,dry weather.

Under threatening rain filled skies we set off from the Visitor Centre at Glen Muick and turned onto the Capel Road following the LR track to the path branching off to Black Hill.

At about 700 metres there is a newly constructed shooting shelter which we used briefly for a coffee stop.Then over the top decending through heather via grouse butts to Alt Darrarie and a lunch stop.

From the Visitor Centre Glen Muick

We then investigated the intriguing burn of Mohammed... How did it get a name like that in the middle of the Cairngorms? Perhaps there was some connection with the famous prophet? Although,the most likely explanation may well have been a spelling mistake in the translation to English from Gaelic. Will we ever know?..watch this space. We returned via the path along Alt Darrarie to the visitors Centre at Glen Muick.. an easy walk and a DRY day out.

Loch Muick from Capel Road

Cloud covered Lochnagar from Capel Road

Shooting Shelter Black Hill

Al Darrarie Lunch stop

Alt Darrarie from bridge and towards the burn of Mohammed

burn of Mohammed looking East

Walk 33 Corriemulzie & Morrone 20 August 2011

2011-08-25T00:56:00.000+01:00

The Corriemulzie Dam

The Ascent

On the top (note the wind swept dog!)

The descent from Morone to Braemar.

A very local walk ascending the Corriemulzie burn to the summit of Morrone above Braemar.

From The Corriemulzie burn to the Southern Carn na Drochaide walking along the ridge to the LR track to Morrone.A good day with pleasant temperatures, some rain and a slight breeze on the top.

Walk 32 Saturday 6 August Glas Maol

2011-08-14T23:50:00.000+01:00

Ascent to Glas Maol

Pete & Michel checking their bearings

Our merry little band of enthusiasts took a steady climb from the Car Park at Glenshee to Glas Maol then followed the ridge to Craig Leacach descending to the road next to the foot bridge.

The weather was damp with threatening skies. It also brought out the the midges on the descent.

However,it was enjoyable and the views..after the mist cleared made it worthwhile.

The Ridge to Creag Leacach

Creag Leacach

The Ridge to Creag Leacach

Descent to the road

Through the midges to the foot bridge

Walk 30 Cairn Tuirc 14 July 2011

2011-07-27T01:13:00.000+01:00

Cairn Tuirc

On the Top

Sron na Gaoithe

At Loch Kander

The Longest and wetest Day!

2011-06-27T00:58:00.000+01:00

It was the Summer Solstice;that day when the real summer begins?
It had to be done. Just the three of us, plus two dogs, ventured up Craig Choinich for a brief visit.
Then it was a fast descent to the Fife Arms for a pint and a chance to dry out.

A couple of wet walkers enjoying the view at the top of Craig Choinich

Corndavon Lodge Walk 28 18 June 2011

2011-06-27T00:49:00.000+01:00

Do you mind our youthful days,

we spent so happily together,

on Gairns rough & rugged braes,

‘mang scented birks & blooming heather.

Extract from a poem by John MacKenzie of Ardoch Glen Gairn:

A brief respite from the rain

Due to the rain and generally poor weather conditions only a few hardy souls ventured out on Saturday to visit Cordavon Lodge at the foot of Brown Cow Hill. The walk took us over An Creagan & Tom Breac dropping down onto Corndavon Lodge and returning along the River Gairn. Altitude gained 326 metres.
The normally spectacular views were curtailed by the rain and low cloud.However, we did manage to see a Golden Eagle take off below us on the descent to the Lodge and welcome shelter and lunch inside the old hunting lodge.
The inside walls are covered with murals by Philip Erskin who first painted them in 1968 then after a 30 year break returned to renew the paintings after they had been vandalised.

The Large Mural

Lunch at Corndavon Lodge

Walk 27 Carn nan Sac

2011-06-27T00:11:00.000+01:00

Approx 6 miles (9 km) Altitude gained 350 metres. (1,000 ft)
One of the few times I did not take my camera, which was a great shame as the views from Carn Nan Sac were spectacular.
This is the next mountain west of the Cairnwell and is easily accessed from the Glen Shee Car Park.
The day was very blustery but this worked to our advantage as the strong wind managed to keep the rain off for most of the day.One of those hills you really need to return to when the weather is good.

Guided Walk through part of Mar Estate

2011-06-14T17:35:00.000+01:00

Walk 25 17 May

2011-06-14T17:12:00.000+01:00

Walk 25
A good walk in fine conditions.
From the Inverey car park we walked along to the ruin at Auchelie before climbing steadily up to Carn Creagch where we enjoyed spectacular views before dropping down to Altanour Lodge and a break for lunch. The return along the side of the Ey burn completed a very pleasant day.

Walk 26 Chest of Dee

2011-05-30T18:58:00.000+01:00

Walk 26

With some regular walkers otherwise engaged on more epic journeys only 3 brave souls arrived at the Linn of Dee to make the walk up to the White Bridge in somewhat unpromising weather conditions.
Almost exactly like the Met Office symbol for sunshine and showers the river seemed to bisect very different conditions with the sun shining brightly over the North bank and black clouds shading the South. Heavy rain never really materialised however and we enjoyed a very pleasant outward walk noting the ruined town ships of Tomnamoine, Tonnagaoithe, Dalvorar and Dubrach en route. With all the recent rain water levels were fairly high ensuring a dramatic flow over the falls at the Chest of Dee where we stopped for lunch.
A brisk return walk enabled us to reach a very full car park shortly after 2.00pm
Regards
Pete

Walk 24 Loch Muick 07 May 2011

2011-05-11T14:23:00.000+01:00

On the South East side of Loch Muick under Creag Bhiorach

Glas-allt -Shiel lunch break

What a good day..Showers were forecast and indeed they came...before the start of the walk and after we had finished. The sun shone down on our small band as we stripped off to our shirt sleeves and enjoyed the almost tropical temperatures.

start of the south east Loch Muick path

Glas-allt-Shiel

Walk 23 Baddock Loch Vrotachan and Carn Aosda 26 April 2011

2011-05-01T22:28:00.000+01:00

Descending from Carn Aosda to the Baddock

Lunch at Vrotachan

Crossing Baddock Burn

Loch Vrotachan

Carn Aosda

Loch Vrotachan and Fishing Hut

A moderate hill walk the long way round to Carn Aosda. We started at the Baddock and crossed the Baddock burn over an unmarked bridge to make the ascent to Loch Vrotachan where we stopped and had lunch at the fishing hut at the eastern corner of the Loch then onwards and upwards to Carn Aosda.After another stop to admire the views we descended along the ridge back to the Baddoch. The weather was good and although the ascent to Loch Vrotachan was on a compass course the going was dry and didn't present any problems.The marks of old settlements along the Baddock Burn could be seen more clearly from the ridge leading to Strone Baddoch and will be the subject of my attention the next time we return to the area.

Cairn an Sgliat Tuesday 19 April 2011

2011-04-23T11:01:00.000+01:00

Cairn an Sgliat

Overlooking Invercauld House

Rest at Creag Clunie

An energetic dash 690 metres to the first cairn.
Warm and hazy. Dry under foot and well worth the climb.

View East from second Cairn

Walk 21 Glen Derry & Bob Scotts Bothy

2011-04-07T18:13:00.000+01:00

Half way stop at Derry bridge

A pleasant walk to the Derry Bridge returning via the new Bob Scotts Bothy. Only five of us plus the two dogs of course.

The New Bob Scotts Bothy

View down Glen Luibeg

Warm and Sunny in the morning but cooled down by strong N Westerly winds later in the day.
A good day to unwind with pleasant company.

Leaving the New Bob Scotts Bothy

Caern Bhalg Walk No 20

2011-03-27T14:19:00.000+01:00

The Linn of Dee was full and the weather was...normal? for this time of year. waterproof clothing was essential as we set off along the road towards Mar Lodge. As we left the road to start our ascent the rain cleared and we were blessed with some great views of the Dee Valley and surrounding countryside. Worth the damp start.

Walk 18 to Genechal

2011-03-10T13:33:00.000Z

The Ruin of Genechal

Track to Genechal

Lunch in the woodof Genechal

A good day and an easy walk with the backdrop tapestry of Lochnagar.

Blessed with sunshine and warm weather.Pete was even tempted to change his plan and visit the Duchess of Kents Cairn..twice! There must be a case for small fines of the yellow water for navigational errors.!

A good day out that catered for everyone Well done Pete.

The Genechal ( pronounced Jenicle ) was built by Queen Victoria circa 1840 as a ‘retreat’ for herself while out hunting. It had two rooms at ground level, one for herself and the other for a caretaker tenant - each of which were accessed by separate front and back doors. Successive tenants brought up their families in their half of the building, with bedroom accommodation in the roof-space accesses only by a ceiling hatch, and they were forbidden to enter the Queen’s side of the house.

The building has a fascinating history but is now a sad ruin which the surrounding forest is rapidy consuming. In her diaries Queen Victoria describes once meeting a mysterious old woman there in 1849 who ‘looked like a witch’.

The last occupants of the Genechal were a family of McDonalds who, sadly, lost two of their adult children in the space of eighteen months and ended up having to bring up their six year old grand-daughter Annie, who was orphaned by this tragedy. With no other children close bye Annie led a solitary life playing and dancing with imaginary friends in the forest and when her situation came to the attention of the Queen she had a doll delivered to the cottage for the little girl to play with.

The house apparently was also a favourite of the then Prince of Wales who often picnicked there while out shooting in the area.

A Walk to the Past Auchtavan

2011-02-23T22:46:00.000Z

The rain held off to give us a comfortable stroll to Auchtavan. We had lunch outside the horsemill and wondered what it must have been like living without the luxury of running water,double glazing,electricity and of course the internet! It was a bonus to have the key to the cottage.Perhaps we should develop the settlement further and set it up as a reenactment village? Michel over to you!

Auchtavan Cottage

The Hinging lum inside the cottage

The track into Auchtavan

A view of Lochnagar south from Auchtavan

Walk 17 Auchtavan

2011-02-20T23:39:00.000Z

Date: Tuesday 22 February 2011

Summary: Walk to Auchtavan and see what Braemar Community Limited have spent some of their money on.. lunch at Auchtavan

Distance: 5.5 Km =total 11 km Altitude 430 metres

Sunrise: 07:24 Sunset: 17:24

Grade: Easy : height gained 133 Metres

Highlights: Views of Glen Feardar & the Balloch Plantation and Auchtavan

A very brief history of Auchtavan:

Auchtavan is a rare survivor of a traditional Highland clachan or fermtoun.

Small communities like these were homes to countless generations in the centuries before the Industrial Revolution. Most of these settlements have disappeared and their houses are now only scattered stones in the countryside. Auchtavan is Gaelic for ‘the field of the two kids’. Traditionally,the rental paid for the land to the laird of Invercauld was two young goats.

Auchtavan is located at the head of Glen Feardar (the ‘glen of high water’), some 430 metres above sea level and looking cross the River Dee to Lochnagar. The lands around the Dee are very fertile and good for agriculture. Even this high up on the mountainside the farmers coan grow corn and raise livestock.

People farmed here for at least two hundred years before the last occupant left in the mid-1900s. In 1861, William and Margory McHardy were living here with their seven children, a ploughman and two farm servants. Life at Auchtavan would never have been easy, and eventually everyone would have left to find jobs in the towns. Many people emigrated to find new opportunities in places like America, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Meet:

Time: 10:30 Location At Braemar Car Park behind the Butchers shop. From the Car Park drive to the start of the walk map ref: 234938 hopefully we can car pool?

Start time: At Inver 11:00 Estimated finish time: At Inver 14:30

Maps:

Explorer Map 1:25 000 No:388 Lochnagar Glen Muick

Landranger Map 1:50 000 No: 44 Ballater & Glen Clova

What to bring: packed Lunch & hot drink

What to wear: Suitable clothing for weather conditions
Advisory equipment: Gaiters, walking poles camera, binoculars

A 1st Aid kit, emergency shelter and phone, will be carried.

Foul Weather Alternative: Nil

Walk 16 Gelder Shiel Saturday 12 February

2011-02-16T01:28:00.001Z

A pleasant stroll to the Gelder Shiel Bothy.. The weather was a bit uncertain in the morning but cleared into a beautiful,sunny afternoon. Everyone finished the walk on time and appeared to have enjoyed the experience!
Look out for the next walk scheduled for :Tuesday 22 Auchtavan.

Braemar WalkersGelder Shiel Bothy

See you there!??

Walk No 16 Gelder Shiel

2011-02-08T23:16:00.000Z

Date: Saturday 12th Feb 2011

Summary: A pleasant walk through woodland and heather.
Distance: approx 10Km Maximumv Altitude 435 metres
Sunrise: 07:45 Sunset:17:01
Grade: Moderate : – height gained 164 Metres
Highlights: Gelder Sheil Bothy ( Lunch stop ).
Meet:
Meet at old Balmoral Post Office.OS Map ref: NO 265 942
Time: 10.30am
Park on road to distillery –Start time: 10.40am Estimated finish time: 15.00
Maps:
Explorer Map 1:25 000 No: 388 Lochnagar, Glen Muick and Glen Clova.
Landranger Map 1:50 000 No: No 44 Ballater and Glen Clova
What to bring:
Lunch and drinks.
What to wear:
Suitable clothing for weather conditions and Gaiters.
Advisory equipment:
Walking poles, Yaktracks, and mini-crampons or equivalent.
A 1st Aid kit, emergency shelter and phone, will be carried.
Notes:
Mobile reception in area may be limited.

Foul Weather Alternative: Queen Victoria cairns.
Summary: Walk around historic cairns erected in 19th Century.
Distance: 5.5km
Note: Number of cairns can be varied according to time and weather conditions.

Next walk Gelder Sheil

2011-02-06T11:55:00.000Z

The next walk scheduled for 12 February is a scenic amble to Gelder Sheil .
Hopefully, the weather will be kind to us..
details to follow

Walk No 15 For Burns

2011-01-30T12:50:00.000Z

Just a nice stroll along the new track following on from the Society Bridge.

Queens Drive overlooking Invercauld House

The weather was overcast but not cold or wet...A bonus for this time of year! The walk took us along part of the River Clunie and up onto the Queens Drive past MacThomas's ruined cottage where, legend has it, Queen Victoria was taken, on occasion, by John Brown for tea and "stickies", views of Invercauld House where the Jacobite rebellion of 1715 was planned by the Earl of Mar, along the Lions Face where, in the autumn, if observed from a suitable high point from the north west, the rock formation can be seen as a lions face with the main of the lion being represented by the golden needles of the Larch trees which are planted in the area.

From the Lions Face following the path parallell to the A93 for a short distance then turning south from Braemar Castle over the "Cromlins" which provide some excellent views of Braemar and along the River Dee.

Finally, following the track through the west side of the Craeg Choinich woodland back into Braemar.

Exactly what the doctor ordered for the start of 2011.

Walk No 15 13:00 Tuesday 25 January 2011

2011-01-23T17:04:00.000Z

Burns Day

My heart’s in the Highlands, my heart is not here,

My heart’s in the highlands a chasing the deer,

A-chasing the deer and following the roe-

My heart’s in the highlands wherever I go

Summary: An Easy walk around Craig Choinich via the Society Bridge, Queens Drive,
Lions Face and the Cromlins.

Distance: 7.12 Km 4.43 miles Altitude 400 metres

Sunrise: 08:22 Sunset: 16:20

Grade: Easy – height gained 65 Metres

Highlights: Views of Braemar, River Dee, Invercauld House

Meet:
13:00 pm at the Braemar Car Park behind the butcher NO151 913
The walk will start at 13:05
Maps:

Explorer Map 1:25 000 No.404 Braemar, Tomintoul & Glen Avon

Landranger Maps 1:50 000 No. 43 Braemar & Blair Athol

What to bring?
Hot drink & something suitable to toast the Bard
Warm, weatherproof, clothing, suitable for the conditions.
Torch (for emergencies only)
Poles and Gaiters
Crampons, Ice spikes, yaktraks etc may be beneficial.
A 1st Aid kit, emergency shelter and phone, will be available.
Note: Limited mobile reception on south east side of Craig Choinich
Foul Weather Alternative: Nil

Walkers meeting 2011

2011-01-23T15:59:00.000Z

Walking Group AGM Minutes
17/01/2011 Moorfield Hotel

Meeting began at 19:34
Quantity and quality of walks

The walks of 2010 were deemed to be interesting and varied. They were fairly frequent but there could have been more. Suggestions were for more walks in the summer months with perhaps a schedule drawn up booking ahead for three months. We should continue to mix mid-week walks with weekend walks, and also include some evening walks, afternoon walks and full day walks. A full moon walk in the snow was also suggested. It was felt we should have had more low level walks and we could also look at the possibility of having a walk starting and finishing at the same place but with two different routes, one easy and one more challenging. It would be prudent to have a foul weather alternative for each walk. Dave, Pete, Richard will get together to come up with a summer schedule of walks. Everybody can send requests/ideas, and offers of leading particular walks via email or phone.

Health and Safety
No one person should be in charge of the health and safety of the individuals in the group. Richard, Duncan & Liz are up to date First Aiders, but no others present at the meeting were. It was decided that each walker should be responsible for his own welfare and that a list of what is required in a basic first aid kit would be placed on the blog. The use of a 4-man emergency shelter was demonstrated for general interest.

Blogs and other stuff
It was requested that walkers respond online to the blog so that we can get feedback on the walks. Richard has asked for a link from the Braemar website and the Braemar and Crathie Parish website. He will also pursue a link with St Andrew’s R.C. website and also look into establishing a facebook page. It was agreed that while there is no need to walk with other groups (Probus, Ramblers, Aboyne, Ballater) from outside the village, it might be beneficial to touch base and find out what walks they do etc.

Village Projects

The group agreed in principle about getting involved in village projects that concerned walkers, e.g the proposed bridge over the Dee. There has been agreement, in principle, from the estates on the proposal and Dave Evans, on behalf of BCL, is liaison. He is due to talk to the engineer, during the next week, to get the project properly costed then consult with relevant bodies such as CNPA and Aberdeenshire Council. If everything is still feasible the next stage is to request formal planning permission and look into the matter of funding. The last estimate was £300,000 At the moment the role of the walking group is to give morale support and keep intere

st in the project alive by promoting the idea in the local media such as the ‘Buzzard’ the Braemar website and Walkers Blog.

Next walk
The next walk is an easy low level one on Tuesday 25th January (Burns Day) meeting in the main Car Park behind the Butchers Shop at 1pm. The route will be via the Society Bridge and the new path to Queens drive and Lions Face, about 3hours.
Meeting closed at 20.24

Craig Choinich winter Solstice 2010

2010-12-24T01:23:00.000Z

O, Solstice comes but twice a year

So celebrate, be of good cheer.

Bring on the feast, break out the beers!

To evil tidings block your ears,

Hang on to hope and trample fear

For soon there comes a bright new year!

Wishing you all a very peaceful Christmas

Winter Solstice update

2010-12-20T15:04:00.000Z

Walk No 14

Tuesday 21 December 2010

Solstice – shortest day

O, Solstice comes but twice a year

So celebrate, be of good cheer.

Bring on the feast, break out the beers!

To evil tidings block your ears.

Hang on to Hope and trample fear

For soon there comes a bright New Year!

Summary: A moderate walk to the summit of Craig Choinich
Distance: 2.26 Km Altitude 538 metres
Sunrise: 08:46 Sunset: 15:27
Grade: Moderate – height gained 190 Metres
Highlights: Views of Braemar Castle Ben Avon, Lochnagar, River Dee & Glen Shee
Meet:
13:00 pm at the gate map ref: NO 155914
The walk will start at 13:15
Maps:
Explorer Map 1:25 000 No.404 Braemar,Tomintoul & Glen Avon
Landranger Maps 1:50 000 No. 43 Braemar & Blair Athol
What to bring?
Festive fayre
Warm, weatherproof, clothing, suitable for the conditions.
Torch (for emergencies only)
Poles and Gaiters
Crampons, Ice spikes, yaktraks etc may be beneficial.
A 1st Aid kit, emergency shelter and phone, will be available.
Note: Limited mobile reception on south east side of Craig Choinich

Winter Solstice

2010-12-10T13:08:00.000Z

Just to blow the cobwebs away, before Christmas, a short walk to the top of Craig Choinich for the shortest day of the year and to wish everyone the compliments of the season.
Meet at the gate to Craig Choinich 13:00 Tuesday 21 December 2010
Sunset is at 15:27

Walk 13 Report and Photograph

2010-11-21T13:43:00.000Z

The Jungles of Ballochbuie

The Prince’s Stone

The dreich conditions cut the numbers for this walk to a hardy few;

Michel, Magali, Duncan and myself.. ach well, I guess it was just a bad weekend.

We set off from the Keiloch Car Park on time. The main path was reasonable and easy going up to the turn onto the track which takes you up through the forest alongside the Ballochbuie Burn. The track was aptly described as being similar to the jungles of Borneo without the temperature. Due to the constant rain we’ve experienced over the last few days, the path was like a burn itself.

I had forgotten how old some of the pine trees in this part of the forest must have been…truly remarkable the way the predominant north westerly winds had sculpted twists in the bark of the trees as they had grown.

We moved out of the tree line and into the shadow of Carn Fiaclach and Cnapan Nathraichean towering over the west of the Glen... impressive with the low clouds drifting over the tree lined gorge created by Sleat Gorm.

The shadow of Carn Fiaclach and Cnapan Nathraichean with low clouds
drifting over the tree lined gorge created by Sleat Gorm.

After a half kilometre we crossed Feith an Laoigh and followed the source up over patches of undisturbed snow to the Princes Stone.

The Stone commemorates the fact the on the night of the 5th October 1857 the Prince Consort slept on this spot in a wooden hut!

The cloud and light flurries of snow had developed a feeling of permanence so we decided to make the return journey following the same path saving more adventurous routes for the summer when we would have more time, better weather and more importantly daylight.

We arrived back at the Car Park at approximately 14:40 with no more than soggy boots. I will definitely return to visit Stob Liath & Craig Liath when the conditions are more benign…

A good day.

Track to the Stone

At the stone another pose

At the Stone

Walk 13 Saturday 20 November 2010

2010-11-18T15:11:00.000Z

The Prince's Stone

The Prince’s Stone

Summary: A moderate walk through woodland and heather covered hill tracks.

Distance: approx 4 miles (6 Km) = approx 8 miles (12Km) in total

Time: 4 hours (excl lunch stop and photo opportunities etc).

Sunrise: 08:01 Sunset: 15:47

Grade: Moderate – height gained 330 Metres

Highlights: Ballochbuie Forest, Prince’s Stone, a Golden Eagle (maybe)

Meet:

10:00 am at the Keiloch Car Park map ref: NO 188913

Lunch at Prince’s Stone NO 229891

Maps:

Explorer Map 1:25 000 No.388 Lochnagar, Glen Muick & Glen Clova

Landranger Maps 1:50 000 No. 43 Braemar & Blair Athol & No 44 Ballater & Glen Clova

What to bring?

Packed lunch and hot drink.

Warm, weatherproof, clothing, suitable for the conditions.

Torch (for emergencies only)

Poles and Gaiters.

Map and compass.

A 1st Aid kit, emergency shelter and phone, will be available.

Note:

There is mobile reception in the vicinity of the Prince’s Stone.

Foul Weather Alternative: Princess Royals Cairn NO 239928 in the woods of Garmaddie

Summary: Low level walk locating points of historic interest

Distance: 5.5 Miles (7Km) 11 Miles (14) km in total

Time: approximately 6 hours

Height Gain: 141 metres

Note: Walk can be shortened if time is lost and/or weather deteriorates.

Walk 12 Report and Photograph

2010-11-18T14:51:00.000Z

Walk 12 – Thursday 28th October 2010

Organised by – Liz and Duncan
A pleasant walk starting at the Baddoch Bridge up the narrow valley, then to the ‘Hill of the Goat’ (834m), and return along the ridge to Auchallater.
This was a one-way walk. Suitable vehicles were arranged to take to Baddoch and Auchallater respectively.
Grade- Moderate
Interests – old settlements, usual wildlife, and cloudberries.
Distance – 10.5 km, Height gained – 410 m,
Time – 4.5 hrs (inc. lunch).

On the way to Winter

2010-11-17T01:22:00.000Z

The nights are fairly drawing in. It's also noticably colder, it was -6°C on Monday morning.
Next walk is Saturday 20th November ..No 13
Still waiting for the report and some photographs on walk No12. I had to pull out of the walk at the last minute due to work.

walk no 12 28th October

2010-10-19T01:17:00.000+01:00

Stand by for walk No 12 in the vicinity of Loch Callater Thursday 28th October 10:30
Meet at Village Car Park- Details to follow.

Carn na Moine & Carn Liathe

2010-10-14T01:30:00.000+01:00

Another glorious day

Walk No 11

2010-09-29T16:31:00.000+01:00

The Next walk will be on 9 or 10 October. Carn na Moine

Walk No10 Gleann Slugain 26 September 2010 One of those good Days

2010-09-29T16:11:00.000+01:00

Part of Gleann Slugain is called the "Fairy Glen" for a reason..and Sunday was one of those days when everything went well. The weather was gloriously bright and just the right temperature.

Down the Fairy Glen

Meall Slugain

Deserted Ruin of Hunting Lodge

Doug,Suzie,Michel,Magalie,Pete,Kathlene,Mary, and myself plus the two dogs set off from the Keiloch at 11:35.We arrived at the Howf at 13:30 in the mood for a welcome break and lunch. After lunch, the return journey took us over Meall Slugain Height 733m and past the ruin of the hunting lodge and the real "Fairy Glen" arriving back at the Car Park at 17:00 still dry and well pleased with our day in a magical place.

At The Howf

To Meall Slugain

2010-09-24T19:19:00.000+01:00

Summer Solstice Craig Choinich

Farquaharsons Seat

A few photographs from previous walks over the Summer

Walk No10 Gleann Slugain

2010-09-24T18:41:00.000+01:00

Hi All,
I hope you will accept my apologies?It looks like summer is over and the winter has arrived missing out the Autumn.
I've been remiss over the summer months and not visited the Blog site to update it and more importantly upload photographs of the previous walks.
The weather for the walk is looking good but cold: I hope to see you at the Keiloch car park on Sunday 26 September11:20 for an 11:30 start for walk up Gleann Slugain and maybe find a Howff or two.

The Distance there and back is 10 miles

Time 5 hours

Height gained 300 metres

Lunch at ruin Gr NO 119 952

Sunset : 18:57

Maps: 1:25000 O/S 404 Braemar

1:50000 O/S 43 Braemar

Dress suitable for conditions

Bring packed lunch and hot drink
See you there

Bovaglie and Camlet

2010-05-06T17:57:00.000+01:00

Glen Ey phots and comment 21 March 2010

2010-03-22T17:26:00.000Z

Hi All,
Another good turn out for the Glen Ey walk = 14 plus Doug -eventually!!
Thanks to Michel & Magali for organising this walk.It was very enjoyable and interesting.

The next walk will be a weekday and during the week of 5 April any preferences please get back to me.

Walk No 4

2010-03-15T22:32:00.000Z

BRAEMAR WALKING GROUP

Walk No 4

Sunday 21 March 2010

Glen Ey

SUMMARY

An easy walk on good tracks

Organisers: Michel & Magalie

Distance: approx 6 km (3.72 miles) = approx 12 km (7.44 miles) in total

Time: 4 hours (excl lunch stop and photo opportunities etc).

Sunset: 18:24

Grade: Easy – height gained 128 Metres

Highlights:

The Colonel’s Bed, remains of old settlements on the route

MEET

11:20 am at The Monument on Linn of Dee Road map ref: NO 089892

Lunch at ruins NO 101847

The walk will start at 11:30 am.

MAP

Explorer Map scale 1:25 000 No.387 Glen Shee & Braemar

Landranger Map 1:50 000 No. 43 Braemar & Blair Athol

WHAT TO BRING?

Packed lunch and hot drink.

Suitable warm, weatherproof clothing for the conditions.

Poles and Gaiters are worthwhile taking (if you like them)

Map and compass.

A 1st Aid kit, emergency shelter and phone, will be available.

Note: There is limited mobile reception in this area.

Any queries– Richard  41225

Next Walk Sunday 21 March

2010-03-12T00:38:00.000Z

The next walk will be organised by Michel & Magali and will take us up Glen Ey
details will be sent out over this weekend

Clunie River Walk- towards Frasers Bridge 1 March 2010

2010-03-05T01:01:00.000Z

Pete decided on attempting to walk to Frasers Bridge.
Unfortunately, the snow was too deep.
We still managed a small walk along the Clunie which was pleasant and very sunny.

Walk No 3 Craig Leek

2010-02-25T16:21:00.000Z

Craig Leek is looking a bit marginal considering the current weather conditions!
Has anyone got any alternatives?

John Brown plus Prince Albert & Leopolds Cairn

2010-02-16T13:18:00.000Z

The Balmoral Pyramids plus John Brown 14 Feb 2010

2010-02-16T13:12:00.000Z

The walk started on time at 11:30 with no problems.
Weather was cool but not freezing and the paths had been given a chance to thaw which made the going reasonable.
Cairn 1 Princess Beatrice
Cairn 2 Prince Albert - a very large and symetrical structure and well built 21st August 1862
Cairn 3 Princess Louise
Cairn 4 Purchase Cairn -built to celebrate the purchase of Balmoral in 1848
Cairn 5 Prince Arthur
Cairn 6 Prince Leopolds overlooking Balmoral
The statue of John Brown Ghillie and companion to Queen Victoria after the death of Prince Albert
I think everyone enjoyed the walk and we finished on time at about 14:30

Ballochbui Forest

2010-01-25T16:56:00.000Z

Latest Walk

2010-01-25T16:34:00.000Z

Ballochbuie Forest,
13 people turned up for this well organised walk around part of the Ballochbuie Forest.
Points of Interest
1. Queen Mothers favourite fishing spot. Brunuich
2. The stone dedicated to James Bowman who was gathering white heather,some say for Queen Victoria,
when he became entangled in a tall fence and was trapped there over night before being found .
He was taken to Inver Cottage but died a few hours later on 9 September 1885. Queen Victoria attended his funeral.
3. The picturesque water falls formed by Feindallacher Burn & Blackshell Burn flowing into Garbh Allt
4. A stop at the Cottage for a spot of lunch and a wee toast to the Bard then back down to the Keiloch
Well done to Duncan & Liz

2010-01-19T17:19:00.000Z

let us hope that this posting is the first of many.
Looking forward to the walk on Monday and also keeping my fingers crossed that the ice and snow will be walkable.
See you there
Aye