Craig Leek

Rising steeply above the A93 east of Braemar, this distinctive hill offers a rugged contrast to the vast plateaus of the central Cairngorms. Its southern flanks are marked by impressive limestone crags and birch woodland, providing a sharp, rewarding climb with intimate views across the Dee Valley toward the dark bulk of Lochnagar.

• •The name is derived from the Gaelic 'Creag Leac', meaning the 'crag of the flat stone' or 'slab'. This is a direct reference to the prominent limestone outcrops that terrace the southern slopes, which are a notable departure from the surrounding granite terrain.
• •Its base of Dalradian limestone creates a rich soil that supports a unique micro-environment. While much of the Cairngorms is characterized by acidic soil, Craig Leek hosts lime-loving plants such as mountain avens and rock-rose, making it a site of significant botanical interest.
• •The summit offers a spectacular vantage point over the Invercauld Estate. From the top, you can trace the winding River Dee as it flows toward Ballater and look directly into the impressive northern corries of the Lochnagar massif and the long ridges of Beinn a' Bhuird.
• •While it may lack the intimidating height of its more famous neighbours, the ascent from the Keiloch forest tracks is deceptively steep, proving that a hill doesn't need to be a Munro to leave you feeling properly exercised.