Welcome to the Speyside Way

The Speyside Way is one of four official Long Distance Routes in Scotland (the others are the West Highland Way, the Southern Upland Way and the Great Glen Way). It was first opened in 1981, to run from Spey Bay to Ballindalloch, with a spur to Tomintoul being added in 1990. A northern extension from Spey Bay to Buckie followed in 1999, with the route being further extended from Ballindalloch to Aviemore in April 2000. The route now links the Moray coast with the edge of the Grampian Mountains, generally following the valley of the River Spey. Plans are well advanced to complete the route to Newtonmore, though no date for opening this last section has yet been set.

Management

The Speyside Way is managed by the three Access Authorities along the route – the Moray Council, the Highland Council and the Cairngorms National Park Authority.

The Moray Council Countryside Ranger Service, based in the Visitor Centre in Aberlour (currently closed), covers the northern section of the route (from Buckie to Advie) and can provide information for the whole route.

For an overview of Long Distance Trails in the rest of Britain and Europe, follow these links: Long Distance Walkers Association and Epaths.

Where is the Speyside Way?

The Speyside Way runs from Buckie on the shore of the Moray Firth coast of NE Scotland, south-westwards to Aviemore on the edge of the Cairngorm Mountains, a distance of approximately 65 miles. There is also a 15-mile spur to Tomintoul.

Click here to see a map of the route, and a mileage chart (PDF).

Public Transport

There are railway stations in Elgin and Aviemore from where connections can be made to the rest of the UK. The Edinburgh/Glasgow bus service passes through Aviemore. Buses also connect Elgin with Aberdeen and Inverness, and from Elgin, there is a regular service to Aberlour, Craigellachie, and Dufftown. South of Aberlour, however, services are much less frequent, and getting to and from Tomintoul by bus requires more perseverance and the help of some local knowledge! There is a local (infrequent) bus service linking Aviemore with Grantown on Spey and Ballindalloch. For more information, see our Public Transport Guide.

Dogs

Dogs under close control are welcome on most of the route, but because of the likelihood of encountering livestock, we advise you not to take your dog on the section between Ballindalloch and Cromdale. This is for your own safety and that of your dog. Cattle, while ignoring humans themselves, will readily chase their canine companions, and this can be very alarming and dangerous. (If there is no alternative to taking your dog on holiday with you, you can get at a pinch bypass this section by following the B9102 from Delnapot to Cromdale) On all other parts of the route if your dog should foul the path, please take a minute to clear up the mess. See SOAC advice to dog walkers.

Adventures

Speyside Way Accommodation

Book your hotel in one of the nine sections

SERVICES

HILLWALK TOURS

AGENCY

Take the hassle out of your Speyside hike by allowing Hillwalk Tours to plan a self-guided walking tour to suit your needs. We offer flexible tours of the Speyside Way Whisky Trail that allow you to walk for 5-days up to 9-days (with plenty of time to visit the world-famous distilleries along the way!) and we can also plan your tour based on your hiking ability as we offer gentle, moderate and challenging itineraries.

Website: www.hillwalktours.com

Email: info@hillwalktours.com

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Walking tours

Upcoming trips

All-Year-Round Activities

Speyside Wat offers a wide range of activities all around the year for beginners and pro's.


Skiing Events

Skiing in the winter, water skiing, canoeing, kayaking etc. if that's what you are looking for.


Camping and Caravaning

There are several camping and caravaning spots you can book.


Water Sports

Enjoy the water sports.

 

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