Via Regia

Via Regia is an 8.5-mile, one-way heritage walk from an unclassified road west of Auchnagallin to Bridge of Bantrach on the River Divie, south of Dunphail. It follows an old road between the Spey area and Forres or Elgin, mixing farm tracks and woodland with rough, boggy ground. Allow about five and a half hours. Choose it if you are comfortable following an indistinct old route and handling fords; it is not a casual heritage stroll. The mapped line uses the riverside finish to Bridge of Bantrach, not the alternative approach via Feakirk Bridge.

A good track leaves the road west of Auchnagallin, passes Badahall ruin and reaches a shooting hut. The older line then follows the Ourack Burn, crosses a ford and turns west near the old Ourack farm. Beyond it, a short rough track ends; traces of path and old road continue through boggy heather along the burn’s west bank. This is the hardest stretch to follow. Keep the route on your map and confirm each turn before leaving the clearer track.

The line enters a conifer plantation through a metal gate, reaches Lynagowan ruin and continues on a modern track to a ford over the River Divie. Past Glenmore ruin, the mapped route descends beside the river to Bridge of Bantrach. There are two fords, so do not attempt a crossing when the water is unsafe. This is point-to-point, and the only parking spot identified is near the far end; arrange a lift or a second vehicle. No food, water or toilets are identified along the route.

Via Regia means “King’s Way.” The route is described as a major 12th-century link between the Spey area and Forres or Elgin. The name refers to the road’s status; it does not show that a king used it. Dogs are allowed under Scotland’s responsible access rules, but keep them under control around livestock and wildlife.