Speyside ... way better
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WALKERS from across the north-east gathered this weekend to celebrate the completion of a major upgrade to the Speyside Way Spur.
A whole series of upgrades on the path linking Glenlivet and Tomintoul have been designed to greatly improve accessibility along the 15-mile section
The work, costing £236,000, involved repairing wet and muddy sections, as well as replacing most of the boardwalks with a raised path.
Stiles and chain gates have also been replaced with pedestrian self-closing gates, while new signs have been installed.
Steve Smith, chairman of Tomintoul and Glenlivet Landscape Partnership said: "The path is now in a much better condition and will make a huge difference to people’s enjoyment of the route.
"We hope it will encourage more people to visit the area, helping to contribute to its regeneration."
A celebration was held on Sunday at Glenlivet Distillery, hosted by Chivas Brothers.
Walkers and key partners also gathered at nearby Blairfindy Moor to officially open the upgraded route.
Brian Fowler from the Glenlivet Walking Group said: "This will be a huge asset to the area, not only for local people but also for visitors who we hope will be encouraged to come and explore Tomintoul and Glenlivet.
"This upland part of the Speyside Way will give walkers a unique experience of the changing landscapes found here, with spectacular views from Carn Daimh across Glenlivet to the Braes, and over to Ben Avon and the Cairngorms."
