This superb waymarked trail runs high through the woods on the north side of Loch Katrine, offering stunning views over this beautiful stretch of water and passing a filming location for the TV drama Outlander.
Bog Factor
Waymarked; tarred lane and good forest path, steep ascent at times.
Loch Katrine pier car park.
Trossachs Explorer bus service from Aberfoyle and Callander.
NN495071
Park at the Loch Katrine pier car park (charge). The SS Sir Walter Scott and other boats run trips out onto the loch from here (some to Stronachlachar, allowing you to undertake a long walk back). You could start or finish with a detour to climb a 3 storey tower for a view over the loch here (follow the fenced path signed Scenic Viewpoint). However, for this circular walk, begin along the tarred private road that runs along the north side of the loch. Ben Venue can be seen towering above the boat pier.
The lane continues around the beautifully-wooded loch, soon passing a group of islands. The largest of these - Eilean Molach - was immortalised by Sir Walter Scott in his epic poem Lady of the Lake; the poem in turn inspired Schubert to write the music that became Ave Maria.
After just under 2km a green waymarked path heads off to the right. This zig-zags and quickly climbs through the trees before emerging on a forest track. Turn left along this, enjoying superb views across the loch.
The track continues with great views up the loch with the peaks of the Arrochar Alps visible in the far distance. When a larger track is reached, take the higher fork to the right. Eventually the route bears right onto another track passing the location where a picnic scene with Roger and Brianna was filmed for the TV drama Outlander.
Go through a gate in a deer fence and then follow the path downhill through the woods - taking care not to miss a left turn part way down. The path zig-zags down to eventually reach the private road along the shores of Loch Katrine once more; turn left along the road.
The tarred line is now simply followed for the remaining 4.25km back to the start. After the first kilometre, take the time to detour out to right out onto Brenachoille Point - a lovely grassy promontory and a perfect spot for a picnic.
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