Happy to report that, on a pleasant October day, 18 members
of the Walking Group took part in a forest walk. There were 2 groups, 1 group of 7 decided on
the Red Squirrel Trail and the remaining 11 took to ramble the wider area of
the forest.
The Red Squirrel Trail is adjacent to the Car Park and is 1.2
miles in length. There is an abundance
of Scots Pine trees which conveniently make an ideal habitat for the Red
Squirrel who just happen to like pine cone seeds. The trail loops around a beautiful woodland
loch, the Bordie Loch, taking in the Standing Stone which marks the Battle of
Bordie in 1038. Alas no squirrels to be
seen but a most enjoyable walk nevertheless.
The ramble headed northwards to join the trail for Kincardine
passing the ruins of a military base, Preybrae Second World War Explosive
Research Station. At the next
crossroads, the Dunfermline/Alloa trail was selected and part way along a
diversion was made to the east end of Peppermill Dam for a photo shoot. The dam was created to be the water supply
for the local paper mill which has since closed. The dam remains as a peaceful haven for
local wildlife. Steps were retraced
back to the crossroads, continued eastward to find a fork in the trail, taking
the right hand option, known as the Coastal Cycleway, to the Car Park. A walk of 2 hours covering 5 miles.
The Potting Shed Cafe
within the Walled Garden was but a few minuted away by car. A comfortable and interesting venue for
coming together over tea/coffee and scones.
