Nature & Walks
Experience Nethy Bridge’s natural beauty through its forests, rivers and trails. The village sits within the Cairngorms National Park and is surrounded by the ancient pines of the Abernethy Forest, part of Scotland’s largest remaining native woodland. From easy strolls to longer hikes, every path reveals something new.
Abernethy Forest, The Heart of the Forest Village
Sheltering much of Nethy Bridge, the Abernethy Forest is one of the finest remnants of the ancient Caledonian Pine Forest. Covering over 4,000 hectares, it’s home to Scots pine, birch and rowan trees, as well as juniper, heather and a rich variety of fungi and plants.
Look out for red squirrels, roe deer, pine martens and the endangered capercaillie. The forest forms part of a National Nature Reserve, managed by the RSPB, and is where ospreys first returned to breed in Britain at nearby Loch Garten.
Trails & Woodland Walks
Nethy Bridge has a well-marked network of paths suitable for all abilities from short woodland strolls to longer circular walks. Trails range from 1.5 to 5 miles (2.4–8 km) and are colour-coded for easy navigation.
Popular routes include:
The Riverside Trail – all abilities
The Wilderness Trail – forest walk with wildlife views
Castle Roy Loop – history and open views
The King’s Road – ancient route through the forest
Download our trail Map below. Free trail maps are available from the Visitor Centre.
Wildlife and Conservation in Abernethy
Nethy Bridge is surrounded on three sides by forest, creating a haven for more than 4,500 species, including over 800 that are nationally rare.
Local highlights include the Scottish wildcat, crested tit, osprey, pine marten, and Scottish crossbill, alongside delicate plants such as twinflower and creeping ladies’ tresses.
Visit the RSPB reserve at Loch Garten for osprey viewing or join a guided wildlife walk through Explore Abernethy events to learn more about the area’s ecology.
For details on the Caper Watch and guided wildlife tours, contact the RSPB.
River Nethy
The River Nethy rises deep in the Cairngorms and flows through the heart of the village before meeting the River Spey. Cross the historic three-arched bridge designed by Thomas Telford in 1810, one of four in the area. The river’s Gaelic name, Abhainn Neithich, has been used since the 16th century and remains central to the village’s story.
