A reduced number of 16 walkers left Aberdeen to head south to Glen Esk for today’s walk from Tarfside to Aboyne where we would follow the old cattle drove route heading north wards to Deeside.
In olden days this was an important route used to drive the cattle to and from the major marts at Crieff and Falkirk.
After a brief stop at Edzell, we journeyed to the start point of Tarfside. Almost all the walkers alighted here though 3 stayed on the bus to travel around to Aboyne for a shorter walk.
The weather forecast was mixed with some showers and a strong southerly wind however the day was totally different with sunshine and warm conditions through out and at least the wind was behind us pushing us onwards and upwards.
We made good progress to reach the division of the path near the Hill of Tampie and continued into the Forest of Birse area before skirting around Birse Castle and ascending again on a good track passing the narrow Gwaves ravine.
A small group made a detour to climb Carnferg where there is a large pyramid shaped memorial with an inscription to a Joseph Heaven and son. At least they can say that they have been to see Heaven!
Continuing north we reached the “Rest and Be Thankful” stone seat erected by Sir William Cunliffe Brookes, MP, one time owner of the nearby GlenTanar Estate. This is one of many memorials he set up on the estate. It is a good viewpoint overlooking Aboyne village.
All walkers arrived at Aboyne early, and after a pub stop at the Boat Inn, we set off for home at 4.15pm
Peter our driver then had us safely back in Aberdeen by 5.15pm.
Frank