Donview - Oxen Craig - Back of Bennachie

Distance	Approximate Time	Height Gain	OS Map
9.66 kms	03:30 (hrs:mins)	400 metres	Explorers 420: Coreen Hills & Glenlivet and 421: Ellon & Inverurie

Description

The walk starts at the Donview Visitor Centre where there is car parking and toilets.

The first part of the walk is a climb of Millstone Hill. The mixed woodland at the start of the walk gives way to heather-covered moorland. The approach to the rocky summit affords dramatic views of the Mither Tap.

The path then descends to meet the Gordon Way. After a gentle woodland walk, the path climbs more steeply until it turns to the left and follows the contour lines. The ground here is more peaty and may be rather boggy at times.

On leaving the Gordon Way, a less well-used, rather rocky track leads to the summit of Oxen Craig. The views from here are stunning and many landmarks can be identified (with help from the indicator) on a clear day.

A well-constructed path leads down from the summit. As it rounds Little Oxen Craig the surface changes to gravel, which is rather unpleasant underfoot. Fortunately this improves when the tree line is reached and the remainder of the walk, following a burn, is attractive and enjoyable. The route ends at the Back o' Bennachie car park.

Access Info

If using two cars for this walk, leave the A96 at the Oyne Fork (693257) and take the B9002 for Insch. Just past the village of Oyne, turn left at the sign "Back o' Bennachie Forest Walks" and follow the road for about a mile to the parking area. After leaving one car, return to the Oyne Fork.

The most scenic route to the Donview Centre is from the village of Chapel of Garioch. This can be reached by leaving the A96 either at Drimmies (742235) or at the junction near the Oyne Fork(695257). In the middle of the village of Chapel of Garioch, take the road to Kemnay / Monymusk. Just past Blairdaff (695177), keep on the Monymusk road. At the next junction (686171), turn right at the sign for Donview Forest Walks. Follow the road through Paradise Wood to the Donview Centre.

There is no public transport.