The best walks and hikes in Deeside And Lochnagar

Hike the Mayar and Driesh via Corrie Fee, a difficult 9.2-mile (14.8 km) route in Cairngorms National Park with dramatic glacial scenery.

Embark on the Balmoral Cairns loop, a moderate hike that guides you through the varied landscapes of Cairngorms National Park. You will discover lush pine forests and open moorlands, enjoying superb views over Deeside and Balmoral Castle. This route covers 7.0 miles (11.3 km) with an elevation gain of 960 feet (292 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 17 minutes to complete.

To begin your journey, head to the car park at Crathie, where you will cross a suspension bridge over the River Dee. It is important to note that the full Balmoral Cairns walk may be closed or not recommended when the Royal Family is in residence, which usually occurs during August and September. Plan your visit outside these times to avoid any disappointment.

This trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and royal history, making it a notable choice in the region. A highlight is the collection of historical stone cairns, including the striking Prince Albert's Cairn, also known as the Balmoral Pyramid, which provides panoramic vistas. You will also catch glimpses of Lochnagar as you traverse gentle hills and woodlands.

Embark on a moderate hike through the Balmoral Cairns loop from Crathie, a 6.2-mile (10.0 km) route that takes approximately 2 hours and 53 minutes to complete, with an elevation gain of 788 feet (240 metres). You will wander through atmospheric forests and across varied woodland terrain, enjoying both stone and grass paths. As you ascend, you'll be treated to superb views of Balmoral Castle, the Dee Valley, and the wider Royal Deeside, with distant glimpses of Lochnagar from certain points. The changing scenery, from lush pine forests to open moorlands, makes for a diverse and engaging walk. You will also encounter some uphill sections, but the paths are generally well-marked. You can expect a serene walking environment throughout your journey.

To begin your adventure, you will cross the River Dee via a suspension bridge from Crathie, which leads you towards Easter Balmoral. The route includes sections of metalled road near Easter Balmoral, ensuring accessible paths for most of the journey. You will also pass by Crathie Kirk, the Royal Family's place of worship when they are in residence at Balmoral, and the historic Balmoral Bridge. This trail is a fantastic choice if you are interested in exploring woodlands and learning about British monarchy.

This trail is most notable for its deep historical connection to the British Royal Family, featuring a series of stone cairns. Many of these were constructed by Queen Victoria to commemorate significant life events of various royal family members. The most prominent is the striking granite pyramid dedicated to Prince Albert, Queen Victoria's beloved husband, which offers panoramic views from its elevated position. Other cairns celebrate royal marriages and important occasions, creating a unique

Embark on the Morrone & Carn na Drochaide loop from Braemar, a moderate hike spanning 9.8 miles (15.7 km) with an elevation gain of 1841 feet (561 metres). This rewarding route, typically completed in around 4 hours and 53 minutes, offers diverse terrain from good paths to heather-clad slopes. As you ascend, you'll pass through attractive birch woodlands and the Morrone Birkwood, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, before reaching the flat, gravel summit of Morrone with its radio mast. From here, you can enjoy magnificent 360-degree views of the southern Cairngorms, Grampian hills, and the picturesque village of Braemar, with prominent peaks like Ben Avon and Lochnagar visible on a clear day. The return leg often includes a pleasant riverside stretch, providing a gentle end to your journey.

This accessible loop starts directly from Braemar village, making it convenient for hikers with parking and public transport options available. While generally suitable for most skill levels, the trail does include some steep ascents, particularly to Morrone, so good fitness and sure-footedness are recommended. Be aware that after significant rainfall, some sections of the Morrone Walk can become quite muddy. If you plan to hike in winter, be prepared for potentially challenging conditions, as an ice axe and crampons may be necessary for safe passage.

The Morrone & Carn na Drochaide loop is a popular choice for those seeking a full day out in the hills without extreme difficulty, offering a high reward in terms of stunning scenery for a moderate effort. The trail's varied landscape and panoramic vistas make it a notable experience within the Cairngorms National Park. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially stags, which are often spotted in the late afternoon, adding an extra highlight to your adventure in this beautiful Scottish landscape.