This will be a new route for the club.
Troup Head is an RSPB reserve. It has the largest Gannet colony on Scotland’s Mainland. It was devastated with Avian flu ( losing 40% of adult gannets and 90% of chicks) but is making a good recovery. The birds are now returning from wintering at sea.
There are also Kittiwakes, Guillemots, Razorbills and other species. We also saw Hares.
You may also see Whales, Dolphins or Porpoises if you are lucky.
We will walk from Crovie (Crivie ) which is a little village sitting under the cliffs. Settlement since 1297. The Highland clearances in the 1900’s boosted the population to 300 mostly earning a living from fishing.. It was severely damaged in the 1953 storm and the council wanted to have it bulldozed but a campaign to preserve the village was successful and today it is protected by a conservation order.
We will do the 5 Farms and Troup Head circuit. Starting from Crovie viewpoint and carpark. This is the upper carpark on your left before going down the hill into village. Only local traffic recommended beyond this point. Grid ref NJ807652. It is a circular walk 9.5km / 6 miles.
Ascent 292 m. 3 to 4 hours depending on stops.
“A pleasant walk in good weather with a strong head wind at times. Interesting and high spot the Gannets coming ashore after wintering at sea. You don’t have to be a birdwatcher to enjoy the spectacle. “
