Loch Muick Circular Walk

The Loch Muick Circular Walk is a 7.8mi circular trail that unfolds on the grounds of the Balmoral Castle Estate, found on the shores of Loch Muick in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The trail takes you on good paths and tracks and remains fairly level for the duration of the walk. There are no significant climbs, and with a total ascent of just 558ft, this an ideal walk for the whole family. With young children, however, you may opt to shorten the walk by turning it into an out-and-back route and stopping wherever you’d like along the circuit for the return.

You may have heard of Balmoral Castle, as it’s long been a residence of the British Royal family, dating back to its purchase by them in 1852. A grand example of Scottish baronial architecture, this walk is much more than just a lochside stroll, but instead, invites you to experience a piece of Great Britain’s history for yourself.

From the car park at the end of the public road leading to Glen Muick, begin the walk by setting out towards the visitors centre, passing by it and turning right to pick up the track that crosses the glen. A bridge soon leads you above the River Muick and on towards the lodges at Allt-na-guibhsaich. Upon arriving at the first building, turn left to join the track then continue straight ahead, ignoring the forking track that heads right.

You’ll soon reach the head of Glen Muich and the Allt-na-guibhsaich lodges, which have since been converted into accommodations available for private stays. Follow the track as it leads towards the loch, passing by an old stone boathouse as you continue on the track that mirrors the shoreline.

Once you reach a stone wall, accompanied by towering pines, you’ll find yourself at the impressive Glas-allt Shiel house, constructed under Queen Victoria following the death of her husband Prince Albert. The charming stone house was seen as an escape from the hustle and bustle of the main castle and conveys a feeling of peace and serenity. For a neat, but optional detour, follow the path found at the left side of the house, up through the woods to visit Glas Allt Falls, adding on an extra hour or so to the circular walk.

The path soon opens as you depart the pines with views of Loch Muick dazzling just beyond. At the fork, maintain a left course, returning to trace the water’s edge. Several wooden bridges pave the way as you head along the shoreline, with the option to pause at one of the welcoming sandy stretches of beach on the shore. Round the head of the loch and continue on the path as it turns left to join a slim path leading through the heather. Another fairly easy climb sets you up to join a track found at the bridge where you’ll turn left, crossing it, to continue alongside the loch.

As you complete the circular trail, great views soon open up back to Broad Cairn, a Scottish Munro situated above the loch. Pass another boathouse, albeit this one much more contemporary than the first, and turn following signs for the Capel Mounth track. Pass by Loch-end wood, following the track as you complete a final stretch, retracing your steps to return to the car park where the walk began.

Trail Highlights

Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle is a grand estate located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Since 1852, the sprawling, grand estate has been a residence of the British Royal family, following its purchase by them from the Farquharson Family. The original castle underwent vast improvements under Queen Victoria following the death of her husband Prince Albert and today it’s listed as a category A listed building and remains an exemplary example of Scottish baronial architecture.

Loch Muick

Loch Muick is a freshwater loch found at the head of Glen Muick just south of Braemar and is contained within the grounds of the Balmoral Estate in Aberdeenshire Scotland. The loch is home to an array of wildlife including deer, red squirrels, and a variety of freshwater fish.

Glas-allt Shiel House

Perched near the shores of Loch Muick, the Glas-Allt Shiel House was built by Queen Victoria in 1868 following the death of her husband Albert. It was seen as a retreat from the main Balmoral Castle and she often referred to it as her “widow’s lodge.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How large is the Balmoral Estate?

Although approximate, the size of the Balmoral estate grounds is estimated at around 50,000 acres.

Is the public permitted to tour inside the Balmoral Castle?

Yes, the castle itself is open to the public, please see below tips for more information.

Is it possible to stay overnight in the Balmoral Castle?

No, the accommodations at the Balmoral Castle itself, although extensive, are reserved for guests of the British Royal Family. There are however several cottages on the grounds that are available for rent as holiday cottages. Please see tips for more information.

Other Great Walks in Cairngorms National Park

Check out our trail guides to Ben Magdui, Ben Vrackie, Loch an Eilein, and the Mount Keen Walk. Or see all of our Cairngorms walks.