The Trossachs Trail - Detailed Description

Arrive Starting Point: Callander

Callander is a bustling little highland town situated at the gateway to the Scottish Highlands. It takes 1h30 or 2h00 to travel to Callander from Glasgow and Edinburgh respectively.

Callander to Aberfoyle - 9 Miles

Leaving Callander on the Invertrossachs Road you quickly reach tranquil Loch Venachar and then head to Aberfoyle via the Menteith Hills. A lovely day of walking through forests, along lochs and across open moorland to Aberfoyle passes all too quickly.

Aberfoyle is popular with day trippers from Glasgow and has several tourist shops, restaurants and an award winning local butcher who offer tasty packed lunches.

Aberfoyle to Brig o' Turk - 9 Miles

Today's walk starts off in the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, part of Scotland’s first National Park. In autumn it is a riot of colour and you will enjoy expansive views to the south as you climb over the Duke’s Pass. Descending to Brig o’ Turk you pass a number of small tranquil lochs and the views of Bens Venue, Ben A’an and Ben Ledi are spectacular. If you are lucky you may spot Red or Roe deer, Red squirrels and even Capercaillie.

Brig o’ Turk is a small hamlet, nestled in the heart if the Trossachs, which has an excellent local pub and several small B&B’s.

Brig o' Turk to Ballquhidder - 11 Miles

Today’s walk is mainly out in open mountain country, walking through glens and skirting the base of heather clad hills. The first section leads you up to Glen Finglas, the old hunting grounds of the kings of Scotland, now an important reservoir. You soon reach Glen Meann, which leads you through some rugged, big sky country and down to Balquhidder.

Balquhidder is famous as the site of Rob Roy’s Grave and enjoys a picturesque location at the head of Loch Voil. You will either stay in Balquhidder or the nearby Kingshouse Hotel.

If your walk is ending in Balquhidder you can take a bus (30 minutes) or taxi (20 minutes) back to Callander and then onwards.

Balquhidder to Callander - 12 Miles

The walk from Balquhidder through Strathyre, along Loch Lubnaig and to Callander is a personal favourite. Beautiful scenery, good trails and great chat mean the miles fly past and you are back in Callander all too soon.

Depart Callander

Regular buses from Callander to Stirling or Bridge of Allan connect to train services to all Scottish destinations.

Walking Direction

We recommend you walk clockwise from Callander as it provides you with the best vistas.

Tailor Made Holidays

We are always more than happy to tailor our standard itineraries to suit. Just let us know what you would like and we will be happy to arrange your tailor made walking holiday.