Forest bathing at Rocks of Solitude and the Blue Door Walk

The Blue Door Walk follows the River North Esk just north of Edzell. You step through a small blue door in a long estate wall and into the river valley, where beech, oak and birch line the banks above rapids and small waterfalls cutting through red sandstone and conglomerate rock. The narrowest stretch of the gorge is the Rocks of Solitude, which feels secluded even on busy days. Rare mosses and ferns grow on the damp gorge walls.

The loop is about five kilometres and takes an hour and a half to two hours. The layby at the blue door holds about six cars and is usually full by mid-morning, so come early or park in Edzell and walk out, which adds a few miles. The path is narrow, slippery and muddy near the water, with unfenced drops into the gorge, so wear sturdy boots and take care. October and November bring the best autumn colour.