Ascending Driesh: A Walk Among Scotland's Stunning Summits

The Call of the Munros

Scotland, a land of ancient myths and wild landscapes, beckons adventurers and wanderers to its majestic highlands. Among the numerous peaks that pierce the Scottish skies, Driesh stands proudly as a siren call for those who seek the satisfaction of conquering a Munro. For the uninitiated, a Munro is a Scottish mountain with a height of over 3,000 feet (914.4m), and Driesh, rising to 947 metres, comfortably earns this celebrated status.

A Bit of Background

Driesh may not be the mightiest in terms of altitude, yet it offers an experience that can rival its loftier neighbours. It forms part of the Angus Glens, sharing its massif with Mayar, another fellow Munro. The range lies within the Cairngorms National Park, a wonderland for nature enthusiasts and one of Scotland's most precious environmental assets. Driesh is especially known for its distinctive 'corrie'—a bowl-shaped depression on its eastern side, carved out long ago by the forces of glaciation.

Planning Your Ascent

To embark on this highland journey, the most popular route begins from the Glen Doll Forest. At first, a tranquil woodland walk sets the scene, gently leading you to the open moors where the real ascent begins. Once above the tree line, the pathway becomes steeper and more rugged. The Cairngorms extend around you in a panorama of untamed beauty, demanding occasional pauses—not just for breaths but also for appreciating the vista.

Reaching the Summit

As you approach the crest of Driesh, the gradient eases, offering a respite for the final leg. Reaching the summit cairn marks a moment of triumph. Here, on clear days, the view stretches over a sea of peaks and valleys. To the north, the stark wilderness of the Cairngorms dominates. To the south, the fertile lowlands spread out, and on the rarest of days, a glimpse of the distant North Sea glimmers on the horizon.

Terrain and Difficulty

The beauty of Driesh lies not only in its scenery but also in its accessibility. Classified as a moderate walk, the paths are generally well-defined though rocky in places. It is a suitable challenge for seasoned walkers and an achievable peak for those new to Munro bagging, provided they come prepared. Weather conditions change rapidly in the Scottish highlands, which can make the terrain more challenging, so proper planning and gear are essential.

Wildlife and Flora

As you traverse the slopes of Driesh, the land is alive with the sights and sounds of Scottish wildlife. Red deer may be spotted in the distance, while grouse startle with their abrupt calls. The flora too, changes with altitude. Heather, blaeberry, and Scots pine give way to mountain specialties such as alpine lady's mantle and ptarmigan – birds perfectly camouflaged against the rocky background.

Conclusion: The Munro Experience

Driesh's summit does not signify just an end to an ascent; it represents the essence of the Munro experience. It's about challenging oneself, about being immersed in the wild, and about touching a piece of Scotland's soul. Whether you hike for the views, the exercise, or to tick another Munro off your list, Driesh offers an encounter that encapsulates the magnificence of the Scottish Highlands in a single exhilarating climb.

So, lace up your boots, fill your lungs with the crisp highland air, and prepare for a day among the clouds on Driesh. It's an adventure that will charm the heart and, quite possibly, ignite a passion for the rest of Scotland's stunning summits.