This part of the Formartine and Buchan Way starts at Ellon and heads north through rich, rolling farmland - a pleasant backwater.
Bog Factor
Cyclepath throughout; surface muddy in places and stony in others.
Station Road, Ellon.
Buses serve Ellon and Auchnagatt (the latter only by pre-arranged Dial-a-bus).
NJ948306
This section of the route begins on Station Road in Ellon. Heading away from the centre, the route joins the road from the left side, and then leaves it on the right, with a cycle signpost indicating 'Auchnagatt 7'. There is a small shop a short distance further on Station Road if needed; otherwise head uphill by the sign to regain the railway line. Soon the McDonald Golf Club course is seen on the right, and some of Ellon's housing estates on the left, before the route passes under a bridge and out into the open countryside.
The walking is very straightforward as the former railway line passes under another bridge at Ward Head, and then beneath a minor road. Underfoot the beaten track soon narrows to a path, slightly muddy at times and better for a mountain bike rather than a road bike. After emerging from a shallow cutting there are views over some very pleasant, rich farmland.
The route emerges onto a minor road where the original rail bridge is missing. Turn very briefly left to pass between the former bridge supports, and then right to regain the old route on top of a low embankment. There are distant views towards Bennachie to the left. Pass under a couple more bridges before the route emerges onto another minor road by South Lodge.
Go straight across; the route continues on the old rail line as the right hand of the two tracks opposite, beyond the vehicle barrier. This section is enjoyable, with some woodland, small lochans, and old Scots pines on the right, and the Ebrie Burn close by on the left at times. Look out especially for roe deer. The route leads under another bridge and past a concrete former linesmen's hut, passing some agricultural buildings before heading under the minor road near Burngrains.
Further on the way leads past two old ponds and the former mill at Mill of Elrick. The waterwheel may be long gone but the millrace burn still flows alongside the handsome old stone building. Finally this section emerges by a road junction in Auchnagatt. Cross the minor road ahead and take to the pavement beside the main A948, before crossing this with care. On the far side is a bus shelter and bus stop, or if continuing to Maud a cycle signpost indicates the path that gives access to the next stage.
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