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Pollen preserved in the sediments of Loch Kinord
record an almost complete sequence of Devensian late-glacial
and Flandrian vegetation history so that these two lochs are
important reference sites for reconstructing changing environmental
conditions in north-east Scotland since the last ice-sheet
melted.
Muir of Dinnet Nature Reserve
The Muir of Dinnet (area 2287ha) is an SSSI and a Natural
Nature Reserve designated because of its value as a habitat
for flora and fauna, and important geomorphological features.
The Muir forms the south-western corner of the Howe of Cromar,
a wide saucer shaped plain at the foot of the Grampian Mountains.
Loch Kinord possesses a rich aquatic flora, and a full range
of hyrdoseral plant communities ranging from emergent fens
dominated by sedges, to bog myrtle scrub, fen carr and birch
woodland. It also has a rich invertebrate fauna and is an
important site for aquatic beetles. About 80 species of birds
breed within the SSSI and the lochs are important refuges
for passage and wintering wildfowl, particularly greylag geese
and wigeon. Since the early 1980's, introduced ospreys have
colonised the area, and both lochs are important rearing and
feeding grounds for young otters.
Now a famous nature reserve with excellent visitor centre
containing information on the surrounding area. An ideal location
for walkers and wildlife enthusiasts. A beautiful national
nature reserve of regenerating woodland surrounding two small
lochs. It is a wonderful place for wildlife. The Muir of Dinnet
National Nature Reserve on Deeside has not only fine birchwoods,
but also a spectacular rock cauldron at Burn o' Vat.
Loch Muich and Lochnagar wildlife reserve
Beautiful Highland Glen between Braemar and Ballater with
the towering Lochnagar as a backdrop. This is where Queen
Victoria built a cottage to stay in splendid isolation. The
reserve was established in 1974 between the Balmoral Estate
and the Scottish Wildlife Trust, Lochnagar is classified as
a special protection area for upland birds, with large numbers
of breeding dotterel.
National Nature Reserve Morrone Birchwood
Access is from Chapel Brae. The finest example of upland birchwood
in Britain. 225 hectares. Footpaths, reserve signs, car park.
Mar Lodge
A large estate containing some of the wildest countryside
in Scotland including Ben McDhui, the second highest mountain
in Britain and 3 of the other 5 highest mountains in he UK.
Recently bought by the National Trust for Scotland. Also takes
in the upper parts of the river Dee and native Caledonian
Pine Forests. Many areas are sites of special scientific and
National scenic Areas, and contain an extensive variety of
wild/birdlife.
Cambus O'May Forest Walks
Four routes of varying distance run through woodland, including
one specifically designed for wheel chair users. Offering
wonderful views across Deeside from various points.
Crathes Castle Gardens
A sixteenth century castle with a twentieth century Arts and
Crafts garden.It might be described as 'The Sissinghurst of
Scotland'. The baronial tower, beside which the garden stands,
dates from the late 1500s. For centuries the tower stood in
lonely isolation, protecting the Burnett family and allowing
them fine views of the woods and moors. In the twentieth century
a fine garden was made by Sir James Burnett of Leys. It is
a walled garden with sculptured topiary and brilliant planting.
595 acres.
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