Braemar to Spittal of Glenshee — Cairnwell Pass Road via Glen Clunie

The Cairnwell Pass on the A93 between Braemar and the Spittal of Glenshee holds the distinction of being the highest public through-road in Great Britain, cresting at 670 metres on the shoulder of Cairnwell mountain. The route south from Braemar follows the Water of Clunie through Glen Clunie — a broad, treeless valley that opens up fast and stays open, giving you long sight lines across heather moorland and granite ridgelines that look painted. The Cairnwell ski area sits right on the summit and the road swings past the chairlift base before dropping into Glenshee on the Perthshire side. In winter this road closes with hard snowfall and reopens with ice — it’s a different beast entirely from the benign summer run.

In dry summer conditions this is a straightforward high-clearance scenic drive — stock 4WDs and capable AWD wagons handle it without drama. Winter is another conversation entirely: proper 4WD with winter tyres or chains, avalanche awareness, and a respect for the forecast. Scottish weather changes faster than the forecast promises. No permit required. Fuel at Braemar or Blairgowrie south of the pass. Best season is June through September for clear roads; October for the deer rut and empty tarmac. Cell service is reasonable on the summits, gone in the glen bottoms. Run this one at dawn before the skiers and tourist coaches take over.