This pleasant circuit takes in a viewpoint popularised by Queen Victoria and a lovely valley walk with good views. The walk can also be completed from the centre of Tomintoul by walking the half km along the minor road to the start.
Summary
Paths, tracks and minor road, fairly flat.
Terrain
Parking off minor road south west of Tomintoul
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of start point, satnav coords and directions]
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1. Start the walk from the parking area just off the minor road that heads south west from Tomintoul towards Delnabo bridge. Follow the track at the end of the parking area and after a short while, and having passed a gate, take the signed detour up steps to the left to reach the Queen's viewpoint. Here Queen Victoria stopped to admire the view on one of her expeditions from Balmoral in 1860. The expedition, which would have been on horseback, went from Balmoral to Grantown via Glen Feshie and then the next day back to Balmoral via Tomintoul and Glen Avon. After admiring the viewpoint return to the main track and turn left.
2. There are fine views across the valley to Delnabo House and to the heather moorland behind. In late summer the moor is a mass of purple flowers and at other times of year the stripey patterns formed by the moor burning to provide a good habitat for grouse can be seen. Follow the track as it passes above a house at Keppoch, keeping on the higher track, and continue along the side of the glen, crossing a stream on a bridge.
3. The track goes through sparse birch wood before dropping down to cross a field and reach the river. Cross the bridge and continue straight ahead turning right on the track to pass between a house and barn. The track rises slightly and passes a house on the right before reaching the end of the public road. Go past the cattle grid and follow the road through farmland.
4. The road passes the impressive house at Delnabo and turns sharp right to run alongside the River Avon. Soon the bridge is reached, turn right and climb back up the steep hill on the other side and then turn right again to return to the parking area. If returning to Tomintoul go straight ahead on this road until you reach the village.
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