Old Moss

Wood, Forest in Aberdeenshire

Scotland

Old Moss

The A939 looking towards the Lecht pass The pass at 644 metres is said to be the second highest paved road in Scotland after Cairnwell Pass (670 m) on the A93, and yes, there's a Wikipedia list: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_highest_roads_in_Scotland" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_highest_roads_in_Scotland">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> .
The A939 looking towards the Lecht pass Credit: Bill Harrison

Old Moss is a charming woodland located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Spanning over a vast area, it is renowned for its ancient and mystical atmosphere, attracting nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The forest is situated within the parish of Tarves, nestled between the bustling towns of Ellon and Methlick.

The woodland is predominantly composed of broadleaf trees, including oak, beech, and birch, creating a picturesque landscape that changes with the seasons. The enchanting canopy allows only dappled sunlight to filter through, adding to the ethereal ambiance. Moss-covered rocks, fallen branches, and a dense undergrowth of ferns and wildflowers contribute to the rustic beauty of Old Moss.

The forest boasts a rich history, dating back centuries. It is believed to have been a significant location during Pictish times, with remnants of ancient settlements and burial mounds discovered within its boundaries. These archaeological finds provide a glimpse into the lives of the early inhabitants of the region.

Old Moss offers a network of well-maintained walking trails, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the woodland's hidden treasures. The paths wind their way through the forest, leading to secluded clearings, babbling brooks, and serene ponds inhabited by various species of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and a wide array of birdlife.

The forest is also a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its unique ecosystem and rare plant species. Conservation efforts are in place to protect and preserve the biodiversity found within Old Moss.

Overall, Old Moss in Aberdeenshire is a captivating woodland that combines natural beauty, historical significance, and ecological importance, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature.

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Old Moss Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.178969/-3.2256872 or Grid Reference NJ2510. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The A939 looking towards the Lecht pass The pass at 644 metres is said to be the second highest paved road in Scotland after Cairnwell Pass (670 m) on the A93, and yes, there's a Wikipedia list: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_highest_roads_in_Scotland" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_highest_roads_in_Scotland">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> .
The A939 looking towards the Lecht pass
The pass at 644 metres is said to be the second highest paved road in Scotland after Cairnwell Pass (670 m) on the A93, and yes, there's a Wikipedia list: LinkExternal link .
The Lecht Road Looking north from the Hill Of Allargue.
The road is all but deserted on this wintry Christmas Eve.
The Lecht Road
Looking north from the Hill Of Allargue. The road is all but deserted on this wintry Christmas Eve.
A939 Lecht Road
A939 Lecht Road
'Panorama' from the Lecht Road A large layby on the south side of the Lecht enjoys a fine view south-east. The glen in the middle distance is that of the prosaically named Milltown Burn, and in the far distance, on the skyline, is Mount Keen. Lochnagar is also visible on the skyline at right.
'Panorama' from the Lecht Road
A large layby on the south side of the Lecht enjoys a fine view south-east. The glen in the middle distance is that of the prosaically named Milltown Burn, and in the far distance, on the skyline, is Mount Keen. Lochnagar is also visible on the skyline at right.
View from the Lecht Road A large layby on the south side of the Lecht enjoys a fine view south-east. The glen in the middle distance is that of the prosaically named Milltown Burn, and in the far distance, on the skyline, is Mount Keen.
View from the Lecht Road
A large layby on the south side of the Lecht enjoys a fine view south-east. The glen in the middle distance is that of the prosaically named Milltown Burn, and in the far distance, on the skyline, is Mount Keen.
Over the hill to Tomintoul
Over the hill to Tomintoul
Lecht Road As the road disappears from view, it drops down to Cock Bridge.
Lecht Road
As the road disappears from view, it drops down to Cock Bridge.
A939 at 644m on Little Corr Riabhach Heading north towards Tomintoul.
A939 at 644m on Little Corr Riabhach
Heading north towards Tomintoul.
The Lecht Road from the Hill of Allargue The Cock Bridge to Tomintoul road climbs steeply to the ski centre at The Lecht.
The Lecht Road from the Hill of Allargue
The Cock Bridge to Tomintoul road climbs steeply to the ski centre at The Lecht.
The famous A939, Cock Bridge to Tomintoul Road In winter 'infamous' might be a better word. Though only the second highest road in the United Kingdom, it is regularly the first to be blocked by snow in an approaching winter. Here we are looking up the steep climb to the Lecht ski centre.
The famous A939, Cock Bridge to Tomintoul Road
In winter 'infamous' might be a better word. Though only the second highest road in the United Kingdom, it is regularly the first to be blocked by snow in an approaching winter. Here we are looking up the steep climb to the Lecht ski centre.
View south from Sgòr Damh on the A939 At the 644 metre point not far from the Lecht ski centre.
View south from Sgòr Damh on the A939
At the 644 metre point not far from the Lecht ski centre.
Rowan and Birch Close to the Milltown Burn, this planting of native species is well protected from the grazing sheep and presumably deer at times.
Rowan and Birch
Close to the Milltown Burn, this planting of native species is well protected from the grazing sheep and presumably deer at times.
Well fenced The substantial fence has prevented grazing animals getting at saplings. As a result there is natural woodland regeneration.
Well fenced
The substantial fence has prevented grazing animals getting at saplings. As a result there is natural woodland regeneration.
A939 Lecht Road This is the south side of the famous, or perhaps notorious, road from Cock Bridge to Tomintoul, usually the first to be closed by snow when winter sets in. Unlike the B976 <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/5960226">NO2799 : October Snow</a> it had had the benefit of a snowplough and the roadway was clear of snow.
A939 Lecht Road
This is the south side of the famous, or perhaps notorious, road from Cock Bridge to Tomintoul, usually the first to be closed by snow when winter sets in. Unlike the B976 NO2799 : October Snow it had had the benefit of a snowplough and the roadway was clear of snow.
The A939 looking south, downhill
The A939 looking south, downhill
Moorland track near to Old Moss Looking north-eastward.
Moorland track near to Old Moss
Looking north-eastward.
Lecht Road (A939) rising towards Sgòr Damh Looking northward.
Lecht Road (A939) rising towards Sgòr Damh
Looking northward.
The Lecht Road
The Lecht Road
Show me another place!

Old Moss is located at Grid Ref: NJ2510 (Lat: 57.178969, Lng: -3.2256872)

Unitary Authority: Aberdeenshire

Police Authority: North East

What 3 Words

///abode.enchanted.hurls. Near Ballater, Aberdeenshire

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