Speyside Way

I hadn't done a long distance walk since the Great Glen Way back in May '05, so I was very keen to get another one under my belt. Scotland has five official long distance walking routes, of which I have now done three. This time it was the Speyside Way which covers a distance of 65 miles from Aviemore to Buckie, and more or less follows the route of the River Spey until in joins the sea at Spey Bay. The Speyside region is famous for its whiskies (Glenlivet and Glenfiddich among many others) though admittedly I didn't touch a drop on this trip!

This was probably my most ambitious schedule yet, covering the 65 miles in only three days. The last two days in particular were tough going, with 11 hour days and very sore feet, so after a meal and a pint I was ready for bed. That said, completely worth it. A great combination of beautiful views, physical challenge, and brilliant company. They say a picture is worth a 1000 words...

Day One: Aviemore to Grantown-on-Spey (17 miles)

Through the woods near Boat of Garten


Sheep farms approaching Grantown


Day Two: Grantown-on-Spey to Charlestown of Aberlour (23 miles)

Several sections of the trail follow the trackbed of the old Strathspey Railway, and many of the old stations have been restored, including this one at Cromdale.


Another section of the old railway, just past Ballindalloch.


Day Three: Charlestown of Aberlour to Buckie (25 miles)

Spectacular views of the Spey and surrounding valley after climbing beyond the treeline near Ben Aigan.


The old vine-covered stone staircase making the descent into Fochabers.


Where the Spey meets the North Sea at Spey Bay.


Very happy to see this after 25 miles!