Our last day on the Speyside Way was another 17-mile hike but the path was smoother and we never climbed more than 200 feet at a time. We passed open farmland with cattle, ewes with lambs, and even a pair of deer in a farther field. Ruined Castle Roy, a thirteenth century fortification, appeared in the distance.
Green was the color of the day but wild fruit trees were blooming in white and pink. Cuckoos called through the woods and we passed many grand old trees including Scotch Pines.
Closer to Aviemore as we paralleled the historic steam railway we could see snow on the higher Cairngorms to our south east. Aviemore is known for its outdoor activities and skiing was still available in May. The path went under the railway and then up through Glenmore Forest Park directly into town.
It was nearly 6pm when we arrived at the Ravenscraig Guesthouse but we had time to locate a nearby touristy restaurant for dinner. And the next day we spent time in the restored railway station admiring the scenery and a restored steam train waiting on passengers during the time we waited for our bus to Perth and a transfer to Edinburgh.
After checking into our hotel, a last wander around the end of the Edinburgh New Town that we had not explored before provided an interesting glimpse into the local football scene because a major match had been played that afternoon and the crowds were definitely out and celebrating (or not). We found another excellent Italian restaurant and after dinner retired early to prepare to catch our 8am flight back to Dublin.
Full photo album for Grantown‑on‑Spey to Aviemore 2026