The Hill of Fare  dominates the skyline  to the North east of Torphins, and is indeed a mountain in miniature on our doorstep. It is a long  but pleasant and varied walk from the village, approximately 10km each way. The route can be shorted by cycling part of the  way or driving to the start of the off-road section.

If walking (or cycling), the  most pleasant route leaves the village following the Learney Duckpond route.  This leads through the Torphins Woods to the Learney Avenue. At the top of the Avenue turn right  and follow the public road past the  gates to the Learney driveway, then take the next turning on the left, leaving the public road just it starts to descend towards Mill of Learney. Follow this road past the Learney duckpond and continue up the  steep hill towards Learney  House.  Turn right at the T junction at the top of the  hill  and follow this track until in meets the B993. Cross the road with care and join the forestry  track opposite.

If coming by car  follow the B993 to the  highest point then identify the  forest track leading off to the right, and park in the old quarry at the start of the  track.

The first part of the walk from here follows a good estate road off the  south west corner of the old quarry. (do not follow the  track to  Tillenturk!). Continue on this track until it leaves the Turk Wood at a large  turning area for forestry  vehicles. Locate the footpath leading south then east up the  hill towards the  summit.   Fine views reward your climb.

Retrace you footsteps to return to the village. Navigation requires care especially in poor visibility.   Away from the path, this is large  featureless hillside!

With suitable logistics ( a lift home!) it is possible to continue along the  hill top on good  tracks towards Raemoir or even to Echt. However these are long distance routes on exposed  terrain, so carry  suitable weatherproof clothing.