This short walk climbs up to Creag an Tuirc, a high knoll overlooking Balquhidder. The crag is an ancient rallying place of Clan MacLaren and has superb views over the village and along Loch Voil.
Summary
Steep waymarked paths
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1. There is limited parking near the churchyard in Balquhidder, which is well-signed as the site of Rob Roy's grave. If full, there is alternative space with a voluntary charge at the community hall a short distance further along the road. Rob Roy's grave stands immediately in front of the ruins of the old church, immediately between that of his wife and his sons. The words 'MacGregor despite them' refers to government efforts to suppress the clan which included the banning of the MacGregor name. The graveyard is very old and repays exploration, whilst the church contains the tombstone of St Angus. Begin the walk by following the lane from the parking area that runs uphill beside the churchyard.
2. When the path reaches a junction, bear right past the Forestry Commission sign for Kirkton Glen. A short distance further on a yellow waymarker post indicates the start of the path up to the crag; turn up this and follow the clear path as it passes through a small gate and then climbs up to a wooded knoll.
3. The summit of Creag an Tuirc (which means the hill of the boar) is marked with a large cairn and a bench. This was the ancient gathering place of Clan MacLaren in times of trouble. Runners would alert clan members to arm themselves and assemble here, and 'Creag an Tuirc' is the clan's rallying cry. For many of today's visitors it is the views for which the ascent is worthwhile. Looking south there is an aerial view of the village, Glen Buckie beyond and a backdrop of Benvane.
4. Further to the right is the perhaps the most picturesque part of the view looking up the length of Loch Voil. From the summit return a few paces the same way but then fork right to aim for a small gate. Pass through the gate and follow the track to the left leading back into the glen. It passes a second bench before reaching a t-junction. You could extend the walk from here for several miles by following the Kirkton Glen circular; otherwise turn left.
5. Follow the track back past the Kirkton Glen Forestry sign. Rather than returning down the lane beside the graveyard it is worth taking the right fork to vary the route to the village. At the next junction turn right to reach and cross a footbridge with a view of an attractive waterfall. The path now swings left and returns to the houses of Balquhidder via an old stone hump-back bridge. The road is reached just beyond; turn left to return to the start. Before doing so you may be tempted to visit the tiny but picturesque village tea rooms.
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