34 walkers attended the outing today including several newcomers. A full busload, the first time for a number of years and also a later start due to the clock change.
A comfort stop was made at Banff before heading to the start of the walk at Findochty, where all bar 3 passengers alighted to complete the full route to Portsoy. The remaining 3 elected for shorter walks around the Portsoy area.
The day was bright and sunny and also very mild for the time of year. We set off from the harbour area to climb up to the headland of Tronach Head and onwards to reach the adjacent village of Portnockie. Our route then continued along the coastal path passing the spectacular Bow Fiddle rock to reach the long sweeping curve of Cullen beach and the high arches of the old railway viaduct. Some stopped for lunch at Cullen whilst others continued to “smugglers bay” where picnic tables were situated with storyboards relating the history and wildlife of the area. A well-made path with rock steps rounded the headland of Logie Head before dropping down to the picturesque Sunnyside Beach. From here we again climbed up to the clifftops to arrive at the ruins of Findlater Castle. Warning signs advised diverting inland for a short distance, avoiding an area of landslips on the coastal path. We next reached the small village of Sandend and the beach where our route continued around the headland before arriving at Portsoy. Several walkers however took the direct shortcut inland heading to the village. All arrived safely at Portsoy harbour with time for a well-earned refreshment at the local pub.
The bus left on time at 4.30pm and Jules our driver had us home in Aberdeen by 6.00pm.
Frank Kelly