Dava Way: Grantown on Spey to Dava
The 13.4 km Dava Way: Grantown on Spey to Dava walk is the perfect introduction to one of Scotland’s Great Trails -- the 38.0 km Dava Way. The first stage unfolds on a good, even path as it leads you through the wide-open countryside that paves the way from Grantown on Spey to Dava, unfolding mostly alongside a historic railway line. With very few ups and downs and covering a relatively short distance, this walk is great for all skill levels and can either be done independently or in conjunction with stage two and stage three.
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Route Description for Dava Way: Grantown on Spey to Dava
The Dava Way: Grantown on Spey to Dava is a charming route that follows a section of the railway line that once linked Grantown on Spey to Dava and was in operation until 1965. The Dava Way has seen walkers come from near and far since 2005, seeking its tranquil trails and remote settings. Apart from a few boggy sections, this well-signed trail is a piece of cake, making it a great walk for adults and older children of all skill levels.
Setting out from the main street of Grantown on Spey, begin the walk up Seafield Avenue which will lead you out of the centre of town. Beneath the old railway, you’ll pass a caravan site just before turning right to join the signed pathway. Cross the wooden bridge and continue the path to link up with the old railway line where you’ll turn left to begin tracing it.
You’ll soon find yourself in wide-open farmland accompanied by the sound of the birds and fresh country air. Up ahead, you’ll cross the A939 which is next to Castle Grant Easy Lodge before continuing up a gentle embankment. Following this, you’ll leave the railway to soon join a track as you continue on the signed path.
Heading towards the woods, you’ll soon make your way into the trees where you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for the swift pine marten who are known to populate this area. Further on you’ll return to a railway side section before continuing on the trail to pass through a farm gate before reaching the optional detour down to Huntyl’s Cage crag, a great spot to pause for a rest and refreshment.
Up next, you’ll embark on the crossing of Dava Moor where you’ll find yourself in an incredibly remote and tranquil setting. Loch Mhic Leoìd will soon be spottable on your left as you continue on the track towards the forest at Dava. A surfaced gravel track will lead to the main road (A9393) where this section of the Dava Way concludes. To continue on to stage two of the Dava Way, look for the turning that leads right, through the trees.
Getting to the Dava Way: Grantown on Spey to Dava Trailhead
To get to the Dava Way: Grantown on Spey to Dava walk from nearby Aviemore, take Dalnabay and B9152 to A95 and continue 3.1 km. Continue on the A95 for another 18.8 km then continue on B9102 to A939 in Grantown on Spey. After 1.4 km reach the main street in Grantown on Spey and park to begin the walk.
Route Information
Dava Way: Grantown on Spey to Dava Elevation Graph
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Nearby Trails
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- Nethy Bridge Circular Walk
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- Dava Way: Dunphail to Forres
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- Creag Mhòr and Loch Avon Walk
- Bynack More from Glenmore Walk
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