free to be able to rate and comment on reports (as well as access 1:25000 mapping).
There is definitely pleasure in exploring new areas - I have driven the A822 so many times, but today took the road past Muthill golf course, and enjoyed the views - and anticipation - of Torlum.
- Torlum from the east
Three cars were parked at the gate but still plenty of room for mine. Sunshine, not a breath of wind, a magnificent Spanish chestnut and then a massive oak by the side of the track, larch, spruce and Scots pine, the squeaking of coal tits overhead and the shriek of a jay.
- Larch sentinels beside the track
About 800m up the track, I took the right fork and decided on the 'diretissimo ' approach up through the bracken. Ok, carried away by enthusiasm - but I must have burnt off a calorie or two! After rejoining the track, I followed the footpath to the summit.
- Looking north to Ben Chonzie
- Looking east over Drummond estate
It would have been easy to sit longer in the warm sunshine, just enjoying the estate landscape of Drummond Castle and hills beyond, but eventually I came down by the main track, heading south then east through the two gates. My opinion of the estate nose-dived when I came across what had obviously been a clay pigeon shoot - the track was littered with many plastic shotgun wads - maybe they intend to go back and pick up later? A pity really as the track is obviously well-walked and been litter-free to that point.
Overall still a most enjoyable short outing.