An almost full bus with 31 walkers left Aberdeen today & headed westwards along the Dee valley to Ballater for a comfort stop before heading off on the main walk. One walker disembarked here to do the “Seven Bridges” walk around Ballater & also taking in the ruins of Knock Castle. One other walker spent their day exploring the delights of Ballater – there are quite a few cafes & pubs etc, among other attractions. The bus crossed the bridge over the River Dee & the remaining 29 walkers were dropped off on the South Deeside Road (B976) close to Loch Ullachie which was the start of today’s main walk.
The weather was cool but dry & the sun came out to play on occasion. There was a good path, albeit a little wet in places due to the overnight rain, which weaved its way upwards through the trees, passing the west side of Loch Ullachie. The path eventually left the trees & continued uphill on open ground , following the edge of the forest. After leaving the trees we soon became aware of a strong breeze blowing from the South West, all as predicted by the weather forecast but almost certainly a bit more blowy than the 10 mph stated. It was time to don gloves & pull the hat down over the ears to keep warm! The wind seemed to get stronger as our group climbed the track especially so when we arrived at the top of the Coyles of Muick. A small group of 6 walkers decided not to take in the top so veered off the track just short of it & headed into the woods to follow the route back to Ballater. On the way to the top our group met a gent who had spent the night on the hill & yet looked none the worse for his endeavours – brave lad!
The route back to Ballater was straight forward along good forest tracks & tarred roads. Everyone was back in Ballater in time for a short break in the pub/café & some even had an ice cream.
It’s fair to say everyone enjoyed their day & our driver Ryan got us back to Aberdeen in good time.
Gilbert