Rising from the North-east coastal plain just south of Aberdeen, the Grampians grow steadily in grandeur as they roll westwards, providing some of the most dramatic scenery in Britain. This work is both an exploration and celebration of the geography and history of this part of Scotland, as well as a practical guide for those who wish to explore the area themselves. It is based around the central theme of the Mounth - the main gateway which enabled travel from north to south through the mountains and which was made up of a whole series of passes, twisting their tortuous way by moorland and loch to the towns and market-places of the Lowlands and Borders.