6-Day / 5-Night Challenging 🥃

From your point of arrival, use the public transport information we provide to make the journey to Craigellachie.

Following the path of an old railway line that once ran as far west as Grantown-on-Spey, it’s no surprise that you pass several remnants of the railway’s illustrious past; from old bridges to disused signals to abandoned platforms. An interesting and varied hike.

Transfer to Tomintoul in the morning. Pay a visit to the Whisky Castle shop in Tomintoul where you will find the largest bottle of whisky in the world and also some of the rarest malts. Don’t drink too much though as next up is the toughest climb on the trail (to Carn Daimh – 570m) where the views are spectacular. Pop into the world-famous Glenlivet distillery at lunch time and take a tasting tour. From the whisky distillery, the trail climbs steeply up the Hill of Deskie before descending gently to Ballindalloch. Look out for the old stone bridge over the Avon River. And, if you have time, we recommend a trip to Ballindalloch Castle – the “Pearl of the North”.

Rolling hills and forest paths characterise today’s varied hike, which is one of the more challenging sections of the route. Take your time and keep an eye out for squirrels, deer and rabbits. You pass a splendid old railway station at Cromdale which has been beautifully restored. Near the end of the day, a lovely walk through Anagach Wood takes you into the pretty little town of Grantown-on-Spey.

Follow the old Strathspey Railway line through the villages of Nethy Bridge and Boat of Garten before crossing some beautiful open moorland with stunning views of the Cairngorms National Park on the approach into the highland resort of Aviemore.

There are regular bus and train services from Aviemore to Edinburgh and to Inverness. Full details provided upon booking.