Ballater, Craigendarroch and Bridge of Gairn

Until the latter half of the 18th century, Ballater was nothing more than brooding moorland. Somewhat ironically, this royal town owes its existence to a staunch Jacobite: Colonel Francis Farquharson, Laird of Monaltrie, who returned from 20 years of exile following Culloden and established a spa lodge at Pannanich after the healing properties of its waters were discovered.

The building of the Deeside railway brought European aristocracy, heads of state, and royalty to the Balmoral Estate. Craigendarroch, north of the town, presents a steep climb through a dome of red granite crags wooded with oak, pine, beech, and aspen (meaning 'hills of the oaks'), offering awe-inspiring summit views of Ballater, the Royal Bridge, and the surrounding peaks.

The route continues past the narrow opening of Glen Muick (meaning 'Valley of the Pigs') and round the northern slopes of Craigendarroch through the Pass of Ballater — a deep narrow gorge rich in semi-precious stones.

Returning via the ruined shell of Glengairn church and Saint Mungo's Well, the walk follows the banks of the impetuous River Dee amidst lupins, broom, and dog roses back to Ballater.

Acknowledgment: Text derived from the Out and Out Series; Discovering the Countryside on Foot. Pictures courtesy of Wikipedia.