Brecklet Trail, Ballachulish

This waymarked trail climbs high above the old Ballachulish Slate Quarries giving stunning views; the return walk is through dense forestry plantations but visits some hidden ruins.

Terrain

Well constructed, waymarked trail. The initial climb above the quarries is steep.

Public Transport

Ballachulish is served by both local and Citilink buses.

Users' reports

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Start

Tourist Information car park, Ballachulish. Map and directions.

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Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

Walk Statistics

Distance: 3km/1.75 miles
Time: 1 - 1.5 hours
Ascent: 116m (Profile)
Grid Ref: NN084584

Maps / GPS

Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

Park at the Tourist Information Centre in Ballachulish. Start the walk by heading through the walkway between the TIC and the public toilets and crossing the road. Go through the gate (there are several information boards around here about the old quarries - see our Ballachulish Quarries walk for more details) and take the path signed 'Brecklet Path' that heads steeply uphill on the right. The path climbs between trees at first before continuing its ascent up more open ground, with excellent views opening up behind over Ballachulish village and Beinn a'Bheithir. Part way up there is a good aerial view down into the quarries.

Stage 2

Further up the slate-surfaced path goes through a gate into the woodland, continuing to climb steeply between the trees. Eventually a junction is reached; turn left here briefly to visit the slate picnic table with its superb view. Return to the junction and this time keep straight through the forestry. Keep on this main path, ignoring all the smaller turns; the path ascends and descends constantly but is waymarked. After some distance it passes several ruined buildings almost hidden in the trees.

Stage 3

Continue downhill; the path eventually emerges on a forest track. Turn right here, as indicated by the waymarkers. The track soon leads into Brecklet, the oldest part of Ballachulish village, with two impressive churches. At the t-junction beyond, turn right to return to the start.

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Route Profile

Walking can be dangerous and is done entirely at your own risk. Information is provided free of charge; it is each walkers' responsibility to check it and navigate using a map and compass.