The Raiders’ road is a forestry drive on unmetalled surfaces, suitable for normal cars. The road is 10 miles long and runs from Clatteringshaws to Mossdale, and provides very scenic opportunities within a short distance of parking points at various sites along the route.
The day will be spent working our way down the forest drive, stopping at a number of sites; if you are coming alone and would like to team up another photographer please let me know in advance.
If it is a still day we should get some lovely reflections enhanced by autumn colours, but if it is still consider bringing some insect repellent!
From the meeting point there are opportunities to photograph the loch, particularly appealing if we have a misty/wet morning! After spending a short time at the loch we will drive onto the Raiders road. There is a £3.00 charge for the road, this is payable by card or phone at the entrance, or online before you arrive.
We will follow the road through the forest, after a couple of kilometres the road joins the Black water of Dee, there are options to stop and photograph the river cascading over its rocky base.
About half way down the road we will stop at the Otter pool, where we will spend time and meet up for lunch (bring a picnic). There are toilets at this site.
After lunch we will continue down the road, stopping at sites along the way. The parking spot just by Boddon’s island is worth a stop, from here the renown author and wildlife artist Donald Watson painted his view across the river, featuring hen harriers over the marsh.
Our final stop will be Stroan loch parking area. Here we can photograph the loch, then meet up for cups of tea at the picnic tables before saying goodbye.
We will be in and out of our cars all day, but when out you may wish to paddle, or access rough ground. Please bring warm waterproof clothing, and sturdy footwear, consider waterproof boots.