Hillwalking
The Trossachs
With Tony Connery

HILLWALKING in the
TROSSACHS

Trossachs

One of my favourite one day trips has been to the Trossachs. Myself and one of my amigos travelled up from Glasgow on the A81 as far as Aberfoyle and then took the A821 as far as the signposts for Loch Katrine.

A relaxed boat trip up the loch in the morning sets you up for an afternoon ascent of Ben An(461).
The start of the walk/climb can be found opposite the car park which is near the entrance to Loch Katrine. Clearing the forest line offers a great view of Ben An from below and 1hour later you find yourself at the summit with the awesome sight of Loch Katrine below. Definitely worth the sweat and a wee half of Scottish whisky at the top is well deserved.

If you are feeling peckish after your climb? Then try one of the many parking spots on the shores of Loch Lubnaig with Ben Ledi in view, for a spot to eat.

Loch Lubnaig

Ben Ledi

After my exploits on Ben An, I spent the rest of the day, cheating... by that, I mean, instead of walking, I took advantage of having my car with me and just drove around the surrounding area.

There are still many fine walks to be had and the scenery remains excellent.
I arrived in Balquidder, a small hamlet, north of the main town of the area, Callander, and spent some time in the Parish Church there, where the legendary Rob Roy is buried.

From there a lovely walk can be taken, on the single track road, along the banks of the placid Loch Voil, (beware cars). The shores of the loch provide some fine spots for a picnic.

A few more miles up the road (A84) I discovered many walks available around Lochearnhead, so the whole area of the Trossachs has an abundance of walking tracks and 3 to 4 days here could be well spent.