Stunning Loch Kinord, plus Tarland and Càrn Ealasaid

[HalfManHalfTitanium]

In my October stay at Ballater, I saved this one for a fine day. I had high hopes for this walk - but it exceeded my expectations. The loch itself and the surrounding woodlands are stunning. Due to high water levels, I did not manage to get through the rocks into Burn O'Vat, but there was ample consolation in an afternoon stroll round Aboyne, a look at the ancient ruins around Tarland, and possibly the smallest hill-walk in Scotland.

Muir of Dinnet nature reserve

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On to the loch shore, and the old chapel at Meikle Kinord

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Water levels still high after the wet weekend

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From here I spotted the 201 bus which I'd taken the previous day to get into Aberdeen, The path then turns north and after a few stiles and fields comes down to the north shore of the loch.

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Ink cap family, and the water which foiled me at Burn O'Vat

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Aboyne

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Tomnaverie near Tarland

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Mount Keen

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Culsh Souterrain

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After such a relaxing day, I had a bit of energy left, so I drove to the Lecht and walked up Carn Ealasaid which gave a fine view of the late afternoon light over Ben Avon.

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[litljortindan]

A good time of year to go to Loch Kinord by the looks of it.