Nature & Environment
Glenfiddich to Glenlivet Walk
A linear walk with Dorenell and Glenlivet Ranger Services along Moray core path SP29 from Bridgehaugh in Glenfiddich through to Glenlivet. Join the Rangers from Dorenell Ranger Service and Glenlivet Ranger Service for a walk up the River Fiddich all the way to its source then over the watershed to meet the River Livet. We’ll park at the finish point in Glenlivet and be transported by coach to the start at Bridgehaugh, south of Dufftown. The route will follow Moray core path SP29, going past Glenfiddich Lodge and up Glenfiddich itself where we’ll have an opportunity to see Elf House cave and the McHardy stone. Once up on the watershed, we’ll hopefully have views across to the Cairngorms before following the Suie Burn down to the River Livet and out to Glenlivet. Along the route, the Rangers will talk about the Cultural and Natural History of the area and will be on hand to point out any wildlife along the route which could include Red Deer and various birds of prey including Golden Eagles and White-tailed Eagles. Although starting off on patchy tarmac track the route is mainly rough landrover tracks with a number of small stream and river crossings. A larger river crossing towards the end can be avoided by a bridge further upstream but walkers should come prepared for potentially wet feet. Mark Johnston is Head Ranger for the 23000ha Glenlivet Estate. The Crown Estate acquired Glenlivet (now managed by Crown Estate Scotland) in 1937 which today comprises over 30 let farms, 1500 acres of commercial forests and a sporting tenancy including grouse moors, salmon fishing and deer stalking. Stephen Reeves is Head Ranger for the Dorenell Ranger Service, set up by EDF Renewables in July 2019 as part of the Dorenell Wind Farm on Cabrach and Glenfiddich estate. Based at the Dorenell Wind Farm Visitor Centre, the Rangers are responsible for delivering the Access Strategy and Habitat Management Plan whilst delivering environmental education and guided walks in the Cabrach and surrounding area.
Deep Time Walk – Roseisle Forrest
Join naturalist Dan Puplett on a journey through deep time. Explore the mind-blowing 4.6 billion year story of Planet Earth as we walk 4.6 kilometres at Roseisle. As we stride through the aeons, every millimetre will represent 1000 years in the astonishing saga or life on our home planet. Hear tales of the rise of life, mass extinctions, the evolution of countless organisms and where Homo sapiens fits into it all! We will also talk about the flora, fauna and… Join naturalist Dan Puplett on a journey through deep time. Explore the mind-blowing 4.6 billion year story of Planet Earth as we walk 4.6 kilometres at Roseisle. As we stride through the aeons, every millimetre will represent 1000 years in the astonishing saga or life on our home planet. Hear tales of the rise of life, mass extinctions, the evolution of countless organisms and where Homo sapiens fits into it all! We will also talk about the flora, fauna and fungi we see on the way, and their place in Earth’s story.
Hopeman Fossil Dunes and Trackways Tour
An opportunity to examine features of the late Permian Hopeman Sandstone Formation, including fossilised dunes and animal trackways, with local geologist Dave Longstaff. During this full-day event with Elgin Museum, you’ll examine the features of the late Permian Hopeman Sandstone Formation. Starting at the beach huts, we will see relicts of aeolian barchan and possible star dunes before examining a stretch of coastline that shows small faults, a range of soft sediment deformation features, fluvial and lacustrine sandstones, abandoned millstones and quarries, trace fossils and other sedimentary features. After lunch in Cove Bay (NJ 1594 7011) around low tide of 13:33, we will look at a well-studied fault zone and post-glacial caves. We will then go to Clashach Quarry to examine fossilised reptile footprints and glacial features before descending to the coast via a short path to visit an old sandstone quarry (1781), the old Clashach port, Jock Muldoon’s Cave and see some beautifully displayed sandstone cross-bedding and relicts of quarrying. When the excursion finishes, we will return to the beach huts via the coastal path; the expected time back at cars is 16:00-16:30.
Guided Forest-Bathing Walk
Relax and restore in beautiful woodland surroundings by learning to practise natural mindfulness. Woodland themed tea, and snacks, included. Rediscover the woods and yourself. No water involved! Forest Bathing (also known as Shinrin Yoku) is a refreshing, relaxing mindfulness practice that allows you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the woods. By following (optional) invitations to open our senses, the aim is to slow down, recharge, and connect to ourselves and the natural environment. Our session may include a guided meditation, some gentle sensory exercises, a restful mindful walk, perhaps a sit/lie down at some point, reflecting as a group, and then tea and snacks. The perfect antidote to a busy week! Led by trained Forest Bathing guide and local therapist Danielle Quist.