Today’s walk took us back to the ever-stunning Linn of Dee, and although our bus was only half full with 16 eager walkers, the energy was high and spirits were undampened (well… eventually dampened, but only by the weather!).
The group split across the three recommended routes, with a few intrepid souls venturing off to do a different Munro of their own. The area was buzzing with fellow outdoorsy types, including a couple of other walking groups, the Stonehaven Ramblers—and another whose name we didn’t quite catch.
Wildlife was out in force today. We spotted birds, deer, and even a group of horses. Nature wasn’t the only thing making an appearance—true to Scottish form, the weather gave us everything: wind, rain, sun and even a cheeky bit of horizontal hail on the high tops. Waterproofs were definitely the fashion statement of the day for most.
Thankfully, both bothies along the way provided welcome shelter for those needing a bit of respite from the weather.
Due to one group arriving back a little later than planned, we had to skip the usual pub stop, which was a bit of a shame. And just to add a final twist, a road closure meant a small detour on the way home. Despite it all, we made it back to Aberdeen just before our 9pm target.
A day full of variety and the sort of unpredictable charm that makes hillwalking in Scotland so unforgettable.
Wendy 😊