Walk the Speyside Way

Nothing develops a thirst like a good walk in the great outdoors. If you prefer to earn your dram and enjoy a good adventure, then the Speyside Way might be for you! Explore the stunning views of the Speyside region.  

What is the Speyside Way?

Running from Buckie on the shores of the Moray Firth to Newtonmore within the Cairngorms National Park, the Speyside Way takes in some of Scotland’s most picturesque scenery. Whether you decide to tackle the 137 kilometre walk in its entirety, or choose a smaller section of the route, this remarkable trail allows you to fully embrace the Speyside region.   

How long does it take to walk the Speyside way?

First opened in 1981 and recently extended from Aviemore to Newtonmore, you can walk the Speyside Way in its entirety in 6 to 8 days, depending on your pace and how much time you wish to spend exploring the surrounding areas. There is also an optional 25 kilometre trail branching off from Cragganmore to Timontoul. 

You are in charge of your adventure, know your limits and there are plenty of walking guides but a typical route would include:

1. Buckie to Spey Bay (8 km): Start your journey with a scenic walk along the Moray coastline. This section is relatively easy, with flat terrain and beautiful coastal scenery. 
2. Spey Bay to Fochabers (8 km): The route then turns inland, as you follow the River Spey to the charming village of Fochabers. 
3. Fochabers to Craigellachie (21 km): Much of this route is on quiet country lanes and rural tracks, passing through woodlands and small villages. If you fancy a break from hiking, we highly recommend a slight detour as you approach the town of Rothes so you can visit the Speyburn distillery and enjoy a whisky tour and tasting. 
4. Craigellachie to Ballindalloch (19 km): Craigellachie is home to the famous Craigellachie Bridge, a cast-iron marvel built between 1812-1814. The route continues along an old railway line, through the village of Aberlour and on to Ballindalloch. 
5. Ballindalloch to Grantown-on-Spey (21 km): The trail here follows the old Strathspey Railway, through woodlands and along forestry tracks. Grantown-on-Spey is a charming Highland town with plenty of accommodation options.
6. Grantown-on-Spey to Nethy Bridge (10 km): A shorter section that takes you out of Grantown, across an old bridge over the River Spey, along the old railway line and into the small village of Nethy Bridge.
7. Nethy Bridge to Boat of Garten (8 km): This route takes you through the Abernethy National Nature Reserve - famous for its bird life - and towards Loch Garten, where you might be lucky enough to catch a sighting of an osprey. 
8. Boat of Garten to Aviemore (10 km): Venture into the heart of the Cairngorms. Aviemore, a bustling outdoor hub, offers a range of activities from hiking to skiing.
9. Aviemore to Kincraig (11 km): Opened in 2015, this section of the route Way mostly traces the old railway line before heading through woodland. Towards the end of the trail, there is the option of branching off onto the Badenoch Way before rejoining the Speyside Way.
10. Kincraig to Newtonmore (21 km): Opened in 2021, the route from Kincraig to Newtonmore is the last section of the Speyside Way. There are fabulous views of Loch Insh and the Uath Lochans, before you eventually join the cycle path that runs into Newtonmore.

Tips for Walking the Speyside Way

• Best time to go: The ideal time to walk the Speyside Way is between April and September, when the weather is mild and the days are longer. However, be prepared for rain at any time of year - this is Scotland after all!
• What to pack: Good walking boots, waterproof clothing, a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent are essential. A map and compass (or GPS) are also advisable, in case you wander from the route. 
• Transportation: Public transport options are available along the route, making it easy to reach the starting point and to return from Aviemore. However, they are far less frequent in winter.  

Come and visit us at Speyburn

Whether on route or at the end of your walk we would be delighted to welcome you at Speyburn for a dram and a chance to explore what makes a great Speyside whisky!

In a serene Scottish valley, tucked in amongst the tree-lined banks of the Granty Burn, you’ll find the iconic Speyburn Distillery. It's beautiful stonework and pagoda roof peeking through the trees make it one of the most picturesque distilleries in the region.

Since 1897, Speyburn Single Malt has drawn from these refreshing waters to craft a whisky as inviting as its famous Speyside home. It remains the only distillery to use its crystal clear water in the whisky-making process.

 At Speyburn we follow our own course, crafting a whisky with nothing but enjoyment in mind. To allow everyone, everywhere to experience the beautiful simplicity of a well-made whisky.

Come and explore how we make the whisky that speaks for itself!