Creag an Tuirc, Balquhidder

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Many people come to the beautiful hamlet of Balquhidder to visit Rob Roy's Grave, but few know that just above the village is a viewpoint which must rank amongst the finest in the country when compared to the minimal effort involved in reaching it. Creag an Tuirc, a grassy knoll atop a crag was the ancient rallying place of Clan MacLaren. It gives superb views over both the village and along Loch Voil.

Terrain

Good tracks and paths; some ascent.

Public Transport

Bus C60 Callander to Killin.

Start

Rob Roys Grave, Balquhidder. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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Walk Description

Stage 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 is immediately in front of the ruins of the old church, 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 well repays exploration, whilst the church contains the tombstone of St Angus. Begin the walk by heading back down out the churchyard and then turning sharp left to head up the track that runs uphill beside it.

Stage 2

When the path reaches a junction, bear right past the Forestry Commission sign for Kirkton Glen. A short distance further on the track swings left, and continues uphill for another 400m, reaching a hydro building. Immediately beyond this turn right onto a good path that leads very gently uphill through the forest. At the end is a gate; pass through and a small path continues up to a wooded knoll.

Stage 3

The summit of Creag an Tuirc (which means the crag 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.

Stage 4

To the right is the most picturesque part of the view, looking up the length of Loch Voil. From the summit return a few paces the same way, heading back down to the hydro building. You could extend the walk from here for several miles by following the Kirkton Glen circular off right; otherwise turn left, continuing to retrace your steps.

Stage 5

Follow the track back down to the Kirkton Glen Forestry sign near the start. 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; bear left to cross the old stone hump-back bridge. The road is reached just beyond; turn left to return to the start.

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Creag an Tuirc, Balquhidder

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Terrain

Public Transport

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