Alexander Henry Leith Obelisk

The obelisk rises unexpectedly from the Aberdeenshire moorland near Strathdon, a granite shaft that marks the resting place of Alexander Henry Leith. It's the sort of monument you stumble upon rather than seek out deliberately, and that's rather the appeal - a moment of local history materialising on the landscape without fanfare.

Leith was a significant landowner in these parts, and this 19th-century memorial stands as testament to his place in the area's story. The walk out to it is straightforward enough, with views across the Highlands that justify the journey regardless of your interest in the man himself. On a clear day the granite catches the light beautifully.

This works best for walkers exploring the Strathdon area - it's not a destination in itself, but a natural waypoint on a longer route through the moorland. History enthusiasts will appreciate the glimpse into local heritage, though you won't find crowds here. The nearest proper facilities are back in Strathdon itself.

If you're staying at Cairngorms Glamping & Campsite just four miles away, this makes an easy afternoon detour. Allow perhaps 45 minutes for the walk and time to absorb the view. There's no charge for visiting - it's simply there, accessible to anyone willing to make the effort. The site itself is free access, though expect exposed moorland weather at any season. Best visited during the drier months when the ground underfoot is less punishing.