Hardy Souls 2 - The "B"Roads

The weather in the week leading up to this run looked somewhat unfriendly with heavy snowfall and high wind on our planned route resulting in snow-gate closures on several days. Fortunately a quick return to milder conditions coupled with confirmation from our local “man in the field”, John Chesworth, that all roads were indeed open, meant that plan “B” was not needed.

Our start point was Mains of Drum garden centre for a leisurely breakfast . Fourteen cars and over 20 members turned out for what was to be a memorable drive on some of the finest roads in North East Scotland.


Leaving Mains of Drum and following the South Deeside road (B974),  our next stop was the square in Ballater  where our cars created quite some interest from local people, particularly youngsters who were delighted with a behind-the-wheel treat in the car of their choice.

After Ballater we took a short run along the A93, North Deeside road to Crathie before taking the single track road (B976) to Gairn Sheil Lodge. This was our first real taste of the conditions that prevailed earlier in the week. Joining the A939 we proceeded through Corgarff and onwards to Cock Bridge for a lengthy photo-stop.

A few of us did the extra few miles up to the Lecht ski centre but with snow conditions so good the car park was extremely busy so just a quick turn around here and onwards via more “B” roads (B9119) to our final destination – Forest Café in Midmar. A round trip of about 100 miles –  and what a great way to spend a Sunday morning!

-- Paul Barlow