Friday 21 January 2011

The wonders of winter walking


Bright blue skies, dramatic snow-covered landscapes, sparkling frost and ice on bare trees. Just because it's cold outside it doesn't mean you should stay indoors and put your feet up. A walk in the countryside in winter can be a feast for the eyes - and a great way to boost your mental and physical health.

Unless you are experienced in winter walking, however, we recommend you stick to lower level walks on routes that are clearly waymarked. Alternatively you could sign up to a guided winter walk or hire your own walking guide to take you to a range of more remote locations.

Glentrek offers a programme of guided walks and self-guided walks, or give us a call to arrange for a guide to lead your own group. You might also like to join one of our winter skills courses so that you can learn for yourself how to walk safely in the wintry hills.

This weekend, for a taste of winter walking on an easy to follow, signposted trail, we recommend this delightful riverside route at Edzell in Angus. The route is 10kms and flat.

The start and finish point is the village of Edzell. From here the path heads along the roadside to the Gannochy Bridge. Here you cross the picturesque River North Esk. You'll be stunned by the amazing deep sandstone gorge here. In winter the river is fast flowing and the views are very pretty.

Follow the road on the north side of the Esk until you reach Glenesk where a footpath then follows the river via the gorge and again cross the Gannochy Bridge. Continue on another footpath that heads back to Edzell, this time on the south bank of the Esk.

Where will you be walking this weekend? We would love to hear about your favourite wintry walks.

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