Beyond Glen Clova lies high and remote but beautiful Glen Doll, opening out to the Eastern Cairngorms, and sporting the impressive mountains Mayer and Driesh, both are Munros.The Glen lies within the Cairngorms National Park and also incorporates the Corrie Fee Nature Reserve which is home to many endangered plants.There is an ancient track that starts in Glen Doll, and reaches all the way to Braemar.
From Braedownie, near Glen Doll Youth Hostel, ancient paths lead over the hilss via Moulzie and the Capel Mounth to Glen Muick, and by Glen Doll and Jock's Road over the shoulder of Lochnagar to Braemar.
The upper reaches of Glen Doll, Glen Cliva and Glen Fee are a botanist's paradise. Several species of alpine plant can be found here, one of the few places in Britain to fing them, including the alpine coltsfoot, the sedge Carex norvegica, and the alpine milk vetch. Along the skyline, look out for the silhouettes of deer, and for ptarmigan amongst the heather.
As you move more into the wild mountains of Scotland, the sense of wilderness and isolation becomes greater, and walkers can feel the sense of elation being away from the daily grind. Recharge your batteries in the good air, and return home invigorated by the outdoor experience.
