Loch Muick Circuit

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This fairly level circuit of grand Loch Muick on the Balmoral Estate provides good views of the surrounding hills and pleasant stopping places. The walk takes in the impressive Glas-allt Shiel house built by Queen Victoria from where there is an optional detour to see some waterfalls. One of the footbridges at the head of the loch is currently down and won't be repaired until after the water level falls.

Terrain

Good track and paths.

Public Transport

Bus from Ballater (Jul-Sep only).

Start

Car park at end of Glen Muick - charge payable. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 12.5km / 7.75 miles
Time: 3 - 3.5 hours
Ascent: 170m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NO309851

Maps / GPS

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Walk Description

Stage 1

Start the walk from the informative Balmoral Estate visitor centre at the Spittal of Glenmuick, just down the track from the car park. After passing the visitor centre building and a vehicle barrier, turn right and follow the track as it crosses the glen. The route crosses a bridge over the River Muick, there are picnic tables on the far side, and continues towards the houses at Allt-na-guibhsaich. When you reach the first building turn left onto the track. A path to the right leads to Lochnagar; continue straight ahead instead.

Stage 2

The track passes below the fine building and heads towards the Loch. After a while you reach the stone boathouse and the alternative path that crosses the end of the Loch which can be used as a picturesque short cut start to this circuit. Keep on the elevated track as it skirts the Loch. A fence on the right hand side shows where heather has been burnt and deer fenced out in an attempt to allow natural regeneration of the forest to occur.

Stage 3

Keep following the track until you reach the stone wall and pines that surround Glas-allt Shiel house. The fine property was built by Queen Victoria after the death of Prince Albert, and used as a quieter retreat from Balmoral Castle. Pass to the front of the house and continue through the woods on the clear path on the other side. If you want to visit the Glas Allt Falls, go around the left side of the house and follow the path directly behind the house up through the woods. This is a steep and, in some places, difficult path, and will add about an hour to the circuit. However in fine weather and especially after heavy rain, it can be well worth the effort.

Stage 4

Continuing the circuit, the path emerges from the pines which shelter the house, the end of the loch comes into view. Keep left at a fork and follow the water's edge. The path crosses a number of small wooden bridges - one of this is currently down - and passes sandy beach areas which make good stopping places. Once the head of the Loch is rounded, the path becomes clearer and turns left to follow the far side. Follow the narrow path through the heather.

Stage 5

Eventually the path climbs to join a track at a bridge. Turn left here, crossing the bridge and then follow the track back along the side of the Loch. There are great views back across the loch to the Glas Allt Shiel lodge passed earlier. During the winter months deer can often be seen in groups on this part of the route. In the summer keep an eye out for adders basking on the path.

Stage 6

There are great views back to Broad Cairn, the Munro above the head of the loch. A more modern boathouse is passed and the turning for the Capel Mounth track which is signed. This used to be a drove route for taking cattle to lowland markets and is used today as a long distance walking route to Glen Clova. Keep following the track, passing Loch-end wood which used to shelter a hunting lodge that has been demolished. Soon the woods and buildings of the Spittal of Glenmuick come into view. Retrace your steps to the start of the walk.

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