Tom Buidhe (957m), Tolmount (958m), Cairn Bannoch (1012m), Broad Cairn (998m), Angus
This was a long circuit taking in the 4 munros in the high hill country east of Glas Maol, climbed from Glendoll to the south. This is one of four glens that bite deeply into the plateau, creating impressive crags which contrast with the much less dramatic hilltops. The area is bounded to the north by the glen of the Allt an Dubh Loch, which runs down into Loch Muick, with Lochnagar and the White Mounth on the far side.
It was a rewarding hike, with no difficulties other than orienteering over the mist-shrouded tops, spoilt only by the lengthy return trek (or trudge) down Moulzie Glen back to Glendoll. It could be a bit too long for some walkers to undertake on a winter's day without risking returning in the dark.
- I'll remember most the glorious section of Jock's Road beyond the forest
- The other best bit was the view appearing through the mist as we left Broad Cairn summit
- The worst bit was the long trudge (1 hr 20 mins) back down the glen to the car park
- The funniest bit was the white ptarmigan trying to look inconspicuous on the rocky hillside
- We didn't expect to have to wade across the river near Moulzie (but it can be avoided!)
- Words of warning - take the footbridge even though it looks rickety, and be sure of your navigation skills if the tops are in the mist.
Contributed by Andrew Llanwarne
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Key Facts
| Location | The high plateau above Glen Doll, reached via Jock's Road |
| Date walked | 4 February 2007 |
| Walk type | High hills and mountain hikes |
| Difficulty | Requires stamina, proper footwear and mountain skills |
| Distance | 26km / 16 miles approx |
| Height climbed | 1000m / 3280ft approx |
| Time taken | 7 hrs 10 mins |
| Map used | OS Landranger 1@50,000 Sheet 44: Ballater and Glen Clova |
| Walk source info | Map and previous walk |
| Getting there | By car from Dundee, just over 1 hour |
| Places to stay | Glen Clova Hotel, Dykehead Hotel |
| Disabled access | No |
