The Devil's Elbow

Overview

Perched at the southern edge of the range, Devil's Elbow Viewpoint pairs sweeping Glenshee scenery with a bit of old‑road drama. The famous double‑hairpin on the former A93 climb has been bypassed, but this spot still draws road‑trippers, cyclists, and wanderers for its commanding outlook and the SnowRoads “Connecting Contours” artwork that literally guides your eye across the hills.

Why It’s Special

This is one of the SnowRoads’ curated stops, and it feels it. The installation doesn’t distract; it sharpens what you notice—the folds, ridgelines, and curves that make this pass so photogenic. Add the lore of the old 17% gradient hairpins and you’ve got a rare mix: design, landscape, and a slice of Scottish road history in one short stop.

What You’ll See

Expect long views over open, rolling, often heather‑clad hills. On clear days the contours pop; in moody weather the light scuds across slopes for equally atmospheric shots. Keep an eye out—this upland country can reward you with red deer, mountain hares, and birds of prey if you linger quietly.

On the Ground

There’s a roadside layby to pull into and space for a handful of cars. Give yourself 20–30 minutes: time to step out, use the artwork to frame a few compositions, and follow short paths for slightly higher vantage points. There are no toilets, food, or water here—come prepared. Take care pulling in and out; it’s a through-road.

A Bit of Backstory

Devil’s Elbow was once a notorious double hairpin on the Old Military Road, steep enough to become a legend for drivers. The modern alignment eased the gradient, leaving the original line to history—and leaving you a calm place to admire the route’s audacity without white‑knuckle driving.

Best Time to Visit

Light is king here: sunrise and late afternoon into golden hour give the most sculpted contours. Weekends around midday are the busiest; weekday mornings are typically quieter. It’s open all hours, but weather swings fast in the high ground, so pack layers and check conditions—snow and ice are common in winter.