| Synopsis: |
Recently extended to run from Buckie to Aviemore, the Speyside Way is rapidly becoming one of the most popular long-distance walking routes in Britain. Now including two spurs to Dufftown and Tomintoul, it covers a total distance of 135 km (84 miles). It is attractively planned so that one of its short sections can be walked in a single day, or it can be tackled in its entirety during a week's holiday. As it follows the line of the Spey valley from the coast into the heart of the Cairngorms at Aviemore it passes some of Scotland's loveliest scenery, around Aberlour, Ballindalloch and Loch Garten, famous for its ospreys. The spurs take the walker away from the riverside to points of interest on higher ground where there are superb views over the hills of upper Moray. This is whisky country too: distilleries abound, legendary names like Glenlivet, Glenfiddich and Craigallechie, where the walker can pause for rest and refreshment. Produced in association with Moray and Highland Councils and the Speyside Way rangers, this is the first official guide to the Speyside Way.Like The West Highland Way: Official Guide, also published by Mercat Press, it comes packed in a handy weather-resistant wallet with a full-colour folding map of the entire route, specially prepared to accompany the guide. It is illustrated with fine colour photographs throughout. As well as giving practical advice and information on preparations for the walk, accommodation, transport and so on, the experienced outdoor writer Roger Smith gives an account of what lies behind the scenery - the story of the rural communities along the way, a description of the rich wildlife of the area, and the cultural and social history that has left so many unobtrusive but fascinating relics. The Speyside Way: Official Guide is not just an indispensable companion for walkers on the Way, but a highly readable and attractive book about an unforgettable part of the world. |