THE SHIRE // Walking the Glen Tanar Estate

Chapel of St Lesmo, Glen Tanar Estate

In the midst of Royal Deeside, on the east of the Cairngorms National Park, lies the 25,000 acre Glen Tanar Estate. Originally established in 1865, today's estate includes pine forests and heather hills, working farmland, holiday cottages, a Victorian ballroom, the pretty little Chapel of St Lesmo and miles of beautiful walking trails.

It was because of these trails that I found myself out in Glen Tanar a few weeks ago now. Hopping in the minibus and heading out into the Aberdeenshirre countryside, my fellow walking group participants and I were met by Mike, the Estate's ranger. 

A treasure chest of information, Mike led us on a circuitous walking route over Baudy Meg, stopping off to impart his knowledge on both the Estate and its resident creepy-crawlies. Starting near the Chapel, we learned of both its history and its current popularity for intimate weddings; we walked upwards to the newly built viewing platform; learned about millipedes, spiders and capercaillies; paused to eat some lunch and smell some juniper berries (but sadly not drink any gin!); climbed uphill where we heard the Haunted Stag's tale and took in views all the way to Bennachie; before descending back to the bus, with a little detour to see a badger's sett or two along the way!

Glen Tanar Estate walk

Glen Tanar Estate walk

Viewing platform - Glen Tanar Estate walk

Capercaillie sign - Glen Tanar Estate walk

Glen Tanar Estate walk

Glen Tanar Estate walk

Mike the ranger - creepy crawlies - Glen Tanar Estate walk

Glen Tanar Estate walk

Glen Tanar Estate walk

Glen Tanar Estate walk

Juniper - Glen Tanar Estate walk

Glen Tanar Estate walk

Glen Tanar Estate walk

Glen Tanar Estate walk

Glen Tanar Estate walk

Glen Tanar Estate walk

Chapel of St Lesmo - Glen Tanar Estate walk

All in all, another beautiful local walk - long, but not too taxing - with some amazing Aberdeenshire views!

I never made it out again with the walking group, unfortunately, but I'm so glad I was able to participate in these few. We live in a beautiful part of the world and these activities are such perfect reminders to pause and appreciate it!

xo

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5 Comments

  1. your photos are beautiful <3

    such a lovely walk isn't it?

    Hope you had a lovely time xxx

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    1. Thank you! It's easy to take nice photos when the surroundings are so pretty! :) xo

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  2. Really nice little read - almost inspired me to get out and explore (but i'm actually pretty lazy)

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    Replies
    1. It's not tooooo energetic a walk, I promise! And so worth it for that scenery. :)

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  3. Wow, what a stunning journey through Glen Tanar Estate! Your vivid descriptions truly transported me there, from the babbling brooks to the towering pines. It sounds like a dreamy escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, I couldn't help but worry about the mention of pneumonia dubai. It's crucial to take care of our health, especially when exploring nature's wonders. Remember to stay warm and dry on your adventures! Looking forward to reading more about your travels.

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