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.

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!

Details

Informations

Elevation 350 m

Weather

Today

Monday 8 December

5°C

3°C

-- %

If you start your activity now...

Max wind speed: -- km/h

Most visited during

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

See rides here

Take Me There

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

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Càrn a' Gheòidh Summit

Cairnwell Pass Climb from Spittal of Glenshee

Dalmunzie Castle Hotel

Caulfeild's Military Bridge

Cairnwell Pass Climb from Braemar

Carn an Tuirc Summit

Loch nan Eun

Cairn of Claise Summit

Loch Beanie

Upper Lunch Hut

Auchintaple Loch

View of Braemar from the Cairns

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

We value your privacy ⛰️

We value your privacy ⛰️