This part of the trail passes through a couple of small forests before reaching Maud. It cuts under former railway tunnels along a smooth accessible surfaces, making it suitable for wheelchair users and cyclists as well as hikers.
At Maud, you have two choices. Firstly, decide whether to visit the village. The path splits – the left takes you into the village centre, and the right bypasses it. It's worth exploring Maud, where you'll find shops, cafes, a hotel, and the Formartine and Buchan Railway Museum.
Secondly, you need to choose whether to continue to Peterhead or take a detour to Fraserburgh. Both stick to the former railway line, and offer fine scenery throughout.