Grampian Ways

A historical and geographical guide to the Grampian area of Scotland. Walking routes are described with stories of historical events which happened in the area. First published in 1980, new edition in 2002.
"The story is based around the central theme of the Mounth - the main gateway which enabled travel from north to south through the mountains and which was made up of a whole series of passes, twisting their tortuous way by moorland and loch to the towns and market-places of the Lowlands. Taking these ancient trails as his point of departure, Robert Smith unlocks the past to provide a series of fascinating journeys... He takes the reader on expeditions into the Deeside hills of Queen Victoria, along old tracks which have witnessed show more ancient battles, or the passage of cattle drovers, and describes the shipment of illicit spirits along the Whiskey Road and the fearsome storms and blizzards which have snared the unwary traveller.... Bob Smith has lived in Aberdeen all his life. He was editor of the Aberdeen Evening Express for many years, and is well-known in the North-east as an author of local history." - jacket blurb
"This book is a companion to delight, either with delectable bedside reading, or with richly informative references to every stage in any walking tour of the Grampians and their passes." - Aberdeen Evening Express review, quoted on the book jacket. show less