Balnahard Wood

Wood, Forest in Aberdeenshire

Scotland

Balnahard Wood

Shannel SSSI The SSSI at Shannel includes grassland and open woodland. — Shannel SSSI Credit: Anne Burgess

Balnahard Wood is a picturesque woodland area located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Spanning over 200 acres, this enchanting forest offers visitors a tranquil retreat from the bustling city life. It is situated in a remote area, approximately 10 miles southwest of the town of Banchory.

The wood is predominantly composed of native broadleaf trees including oak, birch, and beech, creating a diverse and vibrant ecosystem. The dense canopy provides shelter to a wide array of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Visitors can spot various species of birds, squirrels, and deer while exploring the wood's numerous winding pathways.

Balnahard Wood is well-maintained and offers a network of well-marked trails, making it accessible for walkers, hikers, and cyclists of all abilities. The trails wind through the woodland, leading visitors to magnificent viewpoints with stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside.

In addition to its natural beauty, Balnahard Wood also boasts historical significance. The area was once part of a larger estate and has remnants of old buildings and infrastructure scattered throughout. These remnants serve as a reminder of the wood's rich past and add a touch of mystery and intrigue to the overall experience.

Overall, Balnahard Wood is a hidden gem in Aberdeenshire, offering a serene and captivating escape into nature. Whether one seeks a peaceful stroll amidst the trees or an opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural wonders of Scotland, this woodland is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Balnahard Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.04122/-2.6496809 or Grid Reference NO6094. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Shannel SSSI The SSSI at Shannel includes grassland and open woodland.

Shannel SSSI

The SSSI at Shannel includes grassland and open woodland.

Open Woodland in Shannel SSSI Grassland and native broadleaved trees on part of the Site of Special Scientific Interest at Shannel.

Open Woodland in Shannel SSSI

Grassland and native broadleaved trees on part of the Site of Special Scientific Interest at Shannel.

Fragrant Orchid (Gymnadenia conopsea) There are many of these in the grassy parts of the Shannel Site of Scientific Interest.

Fragrant Orchid (Gymnadenia conopsea)

There are many of these in the grassy parts of the Shannel Site of Scientific Interest.

Heath Spotted-orchid (Dactylorhiza maculata) One of many fine spikes found in the grassy parts of Shannel SSSI.

Heath Spotted-orchid (Dactylorhiza maculata)

One of many fine spikes found in the grassy parts of Shannel SSSI.

Grassland near Tillenteach This are of grassland and scattered trees is part of the Shannel SSSI.

Grassland near Tillenteach

This are of grassland and scattered trees is part of the Shannel SSSI.

Monkeyflower (Mimulus guttatus) A well-established non-native that likes damp places.

Monkeyflower (Mimulus guttatus)

A well-established non-native that likes damp places.

Disappearing Pond This pond near Tillenteach is becoming overgrown with vegetation, and it may not be long before it disappears altogether.

Disappearing Pond

This pond near Tillenteach is becoming overgrown with vegetation, and it may not be long before it disappears altogether.

Old Dyke with Moss An old field dyke, still on the maps, on the lower slope near Shannel.

Old Dyke with Moss

An old field dyke, still on the maps, on the lower slope near Shannel.

Shannel Farm Most of the farm is hidden behind the tall conifers on the right.

Shannel Farm

Most of the farm is hidden behind the tall conifers on the right.

The old mill

The old mill

Back roads of Aberdeenshire

Back roads of Aberdeenshire

The Deeside Way

The Deeside Way

Birken Hill farm

Birken Hill farm

Cycle path bridge Over the Burn of Grennoch; a tributary of the Burn of Cattie, and thence the River Dee.

Cycle path bridge

Over the Burn of Grennoch; a tributary of the Burn of Cattie, and thence the River Dee.

Western edge of Slewdrum Forest As seen from the cycle path bridge over the Burn of Grennoch.

Western edge of Slewdrum Forest

As seen from the cycle path bridge over the Burn of Grennoch.

Cycle path downhill towards Potarch From a bridge over the Burn of Grennoch.

Cycle path downhill towards Potarch

From a bridge over the Burn of Grennoch.

Cycle path uphill towards Shooting Greens pass From a bridge over the Burn of Grennoch.

Cycle path uphill towards Shooting Greens pass

From a bridge over the Burn of Grennoch.

Belhangie cottage As seen by the minor road from Potarch to Tillygarmond.

Belhangie cottage

As seen by the minor road from Potarch to Tillygarmond.

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Balnahard Wood is located at Grid Ref: NO6094 (Lat: 57.04122, Lng: -2.6496809)

Unitary Authority: Aberdeenshire

Police Authority: North East

What 3 Words

///masters.explains.kilowatt. Near Torphins, Aberdeenshire

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Balnahard Wood Cannon Braes Corsedardar Hill

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