After the Union of Parliaments in 1707, droving became essential to the Scottish economy, enabling livestock movement to markets across the border. Demand for cattle peaked during the Napoleonic Wars, as salt beef was needed for the British army and navy. Highland cattle were driven from northern glens along established drove roads to markets like Crieff and Falkirk. Drovers played a key role, facing dangers like thieves and living on a diet of oats, whisky, and black pudding. By the late 19th century, droving declined with the advent of railways and steamships. The Monega Pass and the Old Road from Spittal of Glenshee to Kirkmichael were key routes, with Kirkmichael’s Michaelmas Fair becoming a major cattle market by the mid-18th century. Marker stones, such as a stone circle on Elrig’s south slope and another at Calaminach Wood, highlight the route’s importance. The Monega Pass was used by drovers avoiding the steep Devil’s Elbow, and was reportedly favored by smugglers. Queen Victoria traveled this route shortly before Prince Albert’s death in 1861.

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Elevation 350 m

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Location: Mount Blair, Perth and Kinross, Scotland, United Kingdom

Old Road Heritage Path to Glenshee

1. Glenshee Ski Centre – Braemar Youth Hostel loop from Braemar

2. Caulfeild's Military Bridge – Glenshee Kirk loop from Spittal of Glenshee

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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