A day that started so grey and unpromising soon turned into one of those special days that come along and surprise you with there intensity. We had decided to explore GLEN MUICK one of the many glens that are a part of Royal Deeside and a one of the few glens we have never ventured down (or up). As we started to clear the Silver Birch that cover the bottom of the glen the sun started in a rather timid way to break through the clouds. Once the Glen open out into a wide marsh area, the River Muick winds and glides on its way down to the Dee, the sun had really broken through and blue skies were starting to encourage us on our way.
The Mountain of Lochnagar. Inchnaboban
Soon we reached The Spittal of Glenmuick where there is a small car park (fees in support of the Cairngorm Access Society) and it was from here our walk began. After heading off through the village of a farm and a couple of houses, along one of many estate tracks, we caught our first sight of Loch Muick. A circular walk with a few diversions was planned.
As the day progressed so did we, each step opening up an ever extending vista of the Loch with Cairn Bannoch and The Broad Cairn as a backdrop. The path helps by ascending the hills to the left whilst still hugging the edge of the Loch. The heather clad and the more open sides eventually turning to richly clad Birch shores.
The superbly sited Country House, Glas-alt-Shiel, named after the water fall that descends from Lochnagar behind the house. It is another Scottish legacy built by Queen Victoria – this one in 1868, comes into view on the far side of the Loch. Well sheltered from the winds by a forest of pines It looks an idyllic location. I certainly wouldn’t mind it as a ‘holiday home!’ not that there is much chance of the Balmoral Estate and the Queen agreeing to that.
As you begin to reach the head of the Loch equally as good views back down the Loch start to appear and the track starts to descend to the Loch side and a great spot for your packed lunch break. It is also a great spot to watch the Brown Trout jumping. Then it offer across a bridge that allows you to cross the Allt an Dubh.
From the head of the Loch looking back along the way we came you get yet another perspective of these dark waters and the Pines that surround the house.
I have to admit that the walk back on the north side of the Loch is not as memorable but still invigorating in the feel of the surrounding mountains. With blue skies and a sun that warmed you into travelling in just short sleeves it was quiet a day…all the more so for being an unexpected pleasure both for the scenery and the weather….but it was nice to take a breather by the Loch. Yes, a 10 mile walk in just great walking weather in superb surroundings.
But even the last view down the Glen before returning to the car provided yet another change of character to this hidden gem of the Balmoral Estate and grateful that it is available for us all to enjoy.
Written 15th September to be published at a later date when signal available.
DAVID OAKES - IMAGES. 