Cottarsburn Wood

Wood, Forest in Banffshire

Scotland

Cottarsburn Wood

First Obstruction (1) We were warned before we set off from Balnellan that there were 20 or 30 trees down across the track. &quot;I hope you&#039;re good at crawling&quot;, said our informant. We counted, and there were 40 trees lying across one short stretch of maybe 200 metres of the track, but none anywhere else. We were able to through and round them by making a couple of short detours, one where the trees had helpfully bent the barbed wire down so that we could easily step over it. Interestingly, the trees in the first obstruction had been blown north-eastwards, their tops lying on the left as we approached them, but those in the <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/7098703">NJ3345 : Second Obstruction</a> had blown southwards, their tops lying to our right. We deduced that Storm Arwen, which came from the north, must have been responsible for the second obstruction, but that Barra, Corrie or Malik had created the first obstruction. — First Obstruction (1) Credit: Anne Burgess

Cottarsburn Wood is a picturesque woodland located in Banffshire, Scotland. Spanning over several acres, this enchanting forest is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The wood is situated near the village of Cottarsburn, which gives it its name.

As visitors enter Cottarsburn Wood, they are greeted by a diverse range of flora and fauna. The forest is predominantly composed of native Scottish trees such as oak, birch, and pine, creating a lush and vibrant atmosphere. The canopy of leaves provides a cool and shaded environment, perfect for a leisurely stroll on a sunny day.

The woodland is crisscrossed by a network of well-maintained footpaths, allowing visitors to explore its hidden corners and discover its natural beauty. These pathways lead to stunning viewpoints, bubbling streams, and tranquil ponds, creating a harmonious blend of sights and sounds.

Cottarsburn Wood is also home to a rich variety of wildlife. Keen-eyed visitors may catch a glimpse of red squirrels darting through the trees, or perhaps spot a deer grazing in the distance. Birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to observe a plethora of avian species, including woodpeckers, owls, and even the occasional golden eagle soaring above.

For those seeking more adventurous activities, Cottarsburn Wood offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and even horseback riding. The forest is intersected by numerous trails that cater to different skill levels, ensuring there is something for everyone.

Overall, Cottarsburn Wood is a captivating destination that showcases the natural beauty of Banffshire. With its scenic landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and recreational opportunities, it is a must-visit location for both locals and tourists seeking a tranquil escape into nature.

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Cottarsburn Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.481676/-3.1350895 or Grid Reference NJ3244. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

First Obstruction (1)

We were warned before we set off from Balnellan that there were 20 or 30 trees down across the track. "I hope you're good at crawling", said our informant. We counted, and there were 40 trees lying across one short stretch of maybe 200 metres of the track, but none anywhere else. We were able to through and round them by making a couple of short detours, one where the trees had helpfully bent the barbed wire down so that we could easily step over it. Interestingly, the trees in the first obstruction had been blown north-eastwards, their tops lying on the left as we approached them, but those in the NJ3345 : Second Obstruction had blown southwards, their tops lying to our right. We deduced that Storm Arwen, which came from the north, must have been responsible for the second obstruction, but that Barra, Corrie or Malik had created the first obstruction.

Anne Burgess

First Obstruction (2)

Anne Burgess

Second Obstruction

We were warned before we set off from Balnellan that there were 20 or 30 trees down across the track. "I hope you're good at crawling", said our informant. We counted, and there were 40 trees lying across one short stretch of maybe 200 metres of the track, but none anywhere else. We were able to through and round them by making a couple of short detours, one where the trees had helpfully bent the barbed wire down so that we could easily step over it. Interestingly, the trees in the NJ3245 : First Obstruction (1) and NJ3245 : First Obstruction (2) had been blown north-eastwards, their tops lying on the left as we approached them, but those in this second obstruction had blown southwards, their tops lying to our right. We deduced that Storm Arwen, which came from the north, must have been responsible for the second obstruction, but that Barra, Corrie or Malik had created the first obstruction. Until we had to detour off the track to get round the fallen trees, we had no idea that this pond existed.

Anne Burgess

Railway Bridge

The bridge carried the Strathspey Railway over a minor burn.

Anne Burgess

River Fiddich

Looking upriver from the former Strathspey Railway bridge.

Anne Burgess

River Fiddich

Looking downriver from the former Strathspey Railway bridge near Gauldwell Braes.

Anne Burgess

River Fiddich

Looking upriver from the former Strathspey Railway line near the bridge at Gauldwell.

Anne Burgess

Old Railway Cutting

The cutting is part of the route of the former Strathspey Railway.

Anne Burgess

Former Strathspey Railway

The route of the former Strathspey Railway is now a popular path and cycle track.

Anne Burgess

Old Railway Cutting

One of several deep cuttings on the route of the former Strathspey Railway that provide a pleasant shady walk on a hot day.

Anne Burgess

Fallen Tree

The stump of a large tree sticks out at an angle into the former Strathspey Railway cutting. It must have obstructed the path significantly before being sawn into lengths which have been left lying on both sides of the path. The large one on the left gives some idea of the diameter of the trunk.

Anne Burgess