We set off from Aberdeen on the first walk of the New Year and after some pick ups on the Ellon road, the bus with 21 walkers made its way to Methlick and the start of the walk from the car park at Badiebath Wood.
Almost all walkers intended to do the full route, however one stayed on the bus to travel to Haddo Country Park for a walk around the estate.
Despite some earlier short showers on the drive to Methlick, the weather on the day remained dry and clear, with lots of low winter sunshine.
Following a short stop at Gight Castle ruin we negotiated the muddy pathway around Gight Woods Nature Reserve, crossing over Otter Bridge and contouring past the Braes of Gight. A number of fallen trees resulted in a short diversion from the main forest track before we reached the outskirts of Methlick where most stopped for lunch at the play park. We followed the very swollen and fast flowing River Ythan to enter Haddo Country Park and the numerous paths around the estate.
This proved to be busy with lots of dog walkers and members of the public taking advantage of the good weather.
We were all back at the bus before 3.00pm when we then set off for the Cock & Bull restaurant, Balmedie for an excellent annual festive meal and chat. Thanks are due to Wendy for arranging the menu choices with the restaurant.
We finally departed around 6.30pm and Peter, our driver, had us safely back in Aberdeen soon after.
Frank
