The best walks and hikes around Inchmarlo, Brathens And Glassel

Yes, there is a wide selection of trails to choose from. You can find over 100 routes in the region, ranging from easy woodland strolls to more challenging hill climbs, ensuring there's a path for every ability level.

The area is well-suited for family outings. For a shorter, rewarding adventure, consider the Slidderybrae Wood loop from Finzean. It's a relatively easy walk through pleasant woodlands that's manageable for younger hikers.

For fantastic panoramic views, Scolty Hill is a top choice. The climb to the summit leads to the historic Scolty Tower, from which you can see across Banchory, the Dee Valley, and the surrounding Grampian Mountains.

Most trails in the area are loops. A great moderate circular route is the Coy Reservoir – View of Crathes Castle loop from Banchory, which takes you through a mix of woodland and open fields with lovely scenery.

Dogs are welcome on most trails, but be mindful of local guidelines. The varied terrain, from forests to open moorland, offers great exercise for dogs. Keep them under control, especially near farmland and during bird nesting season.

The trails around Inchmarlo, Brathens and Glassel are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of over 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the mix of quiet woodland paths, the well-maintained tracks, and the beautiful views from the hilltops.

The trails cater to all fitness levels. The region offers a balanced mix of difficulties, with about half the routes rated as easy, and the rest split between moderate and difficult. You can easily find a short, flat walk or a strenuous all-day hike.

Yes, there are several trails that follow the river. For an extended walk with lovely river scenery, the View Over the River Dee loop from Banchory is an excellent choice, offering a mix of riverside paths and woodland tracks.

Absolutely. The region is rich in history. A popular walk takes in the Glassel Stone Circle, a prehistoric monument set in a woodland clearing. Other trails lead to historic sites like the Scolty Tower, a 19th-century memorial.

Banchory is the main town in the area and is accessible by bus from Aberdeen. From Banchory, you can access several trailheads on foot. For routes starting further afield, such as near Echt or Finzean, public transport options are limited, and a car is recommended.

For hikes up Scolty Hill, there is a dedicated car park at the base of the hill, which is the most convenient starting point. For other trails, parking is often available in small lay-bys near the trailhead or in the nearby villages of Banchory, Torphins, or Echt.

Yes, for a more demanding day out, the Hill of Fare Summit Cairn loop from Echt offers a strenuous hike. This long route crosses wild moorland and forestry tracks, rewarding you with fantastic views from the summit on a clear day.