Dava Way: Grantown on Spey to Dava

The Dava Way: Grantown on Spey to Dava is a charming route that follows a section of the railway line that once linked Grantown on Spey to Dava and was in operation until 1965. The Dava Way has seen walkers come from near and far since 2005, seeking its tranquil trails and remote settings. Apart from a few boggy sections, this well-signed trail is a piece of cake, making it a great walk for adults and older children of all skill levels.

Setting out from the main street of Grantown on Spey, begin the walk up Seafield Avenue which will lead you out of the centre of town. Beneath the old railway, you’ll pass a caravan site just before turning right to join the signed pathway. Cross the wooden bridge and continue the path to link up with the old railway line where you’ll turn left to begin tracing it.

You’ll soon find yourself in wide-open farmland accompanied by the sound of the birds and fresh country air. Up ahead, you’ll cross the A939 which is next to Castle Grant Easy Lodge before continuing up a gentle embankment. Following this, you’ll leave the railway to soon join a track as you continue on the signed path.

Heading towards the woods, you’ll soon make your way into the trees where you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for the swift pine marten who are known to populate this area. Further on you’ll return to a railway side section before continuing on the trail to pass through a farm gate before reaching the optional detour down to Huntyl’s Cage crag, a great spot to pause for a rest and refreshment.

Up next, you’ll embark on the crossing of Dava Moor where you’ll find yourself in an incredibly remote and tranquil setting. Loch Mhic Leoìd will soon be spottable on your left as you continue on the track towards the forest at Dava. A surfaced gravel track will lead to the main road (A9393) where this section of the Dava Way concludes. To continue on to stage two of the Dava Way, look for the turning that leads right, through the trees.