free to be able to rate and comment on reports (as well as access 1:25000 mapping).
The Lairig an Laoigh, like the Lairig Ghru, links Speyside with Deeside, but this more easterly pass is far less known than its higher neighbour. The mountain scenery is perhaps slightly less dramatic but it provides a fine through-walk with pinewoods, bleak moorlands, river crossings. The two routes can be combined, with a wild-camp or stay in a bothy, to make a magnificent circuit.
I started from Braemar just after half past 10 in the morning after catching an early bus from Aberdeen.
I walked about 5 miles out to Lui Water through the grounds of Mar Lodge estate, adding an extra hour to the total journey. I popped into Bob Scotts bothy on my way then made my way past Derry Lodge to Glen Derry and onto the path of the Lairig an Laoigh.
I soon had to wade through the fords of Avon, where I took a rest at the Fords of Avon refuge hut before pressing on, over the hills to descend into the Speyside. I arrived at Ryvoan bothy around 8pm then pitched the tent before heading inside to cook away from the midges. I had the bothy to myself but didn't want to stay inside it due to mice. I recorded a video of the adventure which is part of a series I made over 4 days.
