Cairn-mon-earn

Standing as a prominent outpost of the Mounth hills near Aboyne, this Marilyn is defined by the massive communications masts crowning its summit. Despite the industrial hardware, the climb through Durris Forest rewards walkers with an expansive, clear perspective across the Midmar farmlands and the winding River Dee.

• •The name is derived from the Gaelic Càrn mon-eàrn, often interpreted as the 'Cairn of the Mounth of the Eagles', marking its status as a high point on the eastern fringes of the Grampians.
• •The summit is dominated by the Durris transmitting station; its primary mast reaches over 300 metres into the sky, ensuring the hill is visible for miles across the Aberdeenshire countryside.
• •From the trig pillar, the view spans from the North Sea coast at Stonehaven to the distinctive granite profile of Clachnaben and the distant high peaks of the Cairngorms.
• •Most ascents follow the well-graded service tracks through Durris Forest, making this a popular 'quick fix' for local walkers looking to bag a Marilyn without a long approach.
• •While many summits offer a sense of remote isolation, a trip to this peak provides the unique opportunity to stand next to several million watts of television equipment while checking your emails with perfect reception.