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MODERATE WALKS
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THE BIRKS OF ABERFELDY
Distance: 2.5 miles/4km
Approximate Time: 90 minutes
Height Gain: 170 metres
Further Info: `Walks North Perthshire` Hallewell Pocket Walking Guide or Footprint Walking Guide – both available from Aberfeldy VIC.
Follow in the footsteps of national poet Robert Burns, who wrote the famous poem `The Birks of Aberfeldie` here in 1787. The `birks` (Scots for birch trees) still cloak the steep slopes, along with oak, ash and elm. A narrow, well-defined circular path rises to a bridge directly above the spectacular Falls of Moness. Very photogenic in the cooler days of late autumn. For those not so mobile, there is a picnic area in the car park and a short tree trail identifying a large number of species. Start the walk from Aberfeldy town centre or from the Birks car park off the A826. When in Aberfeldy also visit Dewar’s World of Whisky and Aberfeldy Watermill Bookshop and Gallery.
THE FALLS OF ACHARN
Distance: 1.5 miles/2km
Approximate Time: 30 minutes
Height Gain: 120 metres
Further Info: `Walks North Perthshire` Hallewell Pocket Walking Guide or Footprint Walking Guide – both available from Aberfeldy VIC.
A clearly defined track starts close to the centre of Acharn Village, 2 miles/3km from Kenmore on the south side of Loch Tay. The route heads away from the loch, gradually ascending to a small man made cavern and viewing platform. Rugged views to the north, Drummond Hill above Kenmore and the majestic Ben Lawers range. Follow the circular route back to the starting point.
KENMORE HILL
Distance: up to 2.5 miles/4km
Approximate Time: up to 90 minutes
Height Gain: up to 155 metres
Further Info: `Woodland Walks on Kenmore Hill` leaflet available from Aberfeldy VIC or OS Landranger Map 52
On Bolfracks Estate near Aberfeldy, the remnants of an ancient pinewood have been restored to their former glory through a replanting programme designed to recreate a small section of the Caledonian forest that once covered most of the Scottish Highlands. A path network allows walkers to get a feel for this special area and enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery. All three walks are clearly signposted and start from the car park which can be reached from the Kenmore to Amulree road (GR 784446). Wildlife species of interest include a healthy population of black grouse, as well as red grouse, buzzard, kestrel and the occasional golden eagle. The Scottish Crannog Centre is a re-creation of an iron age loch dwelling and is located nearby in Kenmore, open Easter to October. Range of eating places in Kenmore.
DRUMMOND HILL
Distance: up to 3 miles/5km
Approximate Time: up to 90 minutes
Height Gain: up to 160 metres
Further Info: `A Guide to Tay Forest Park` available from Aberfeldy VIC or OS Landranger Map 52
Excellent walking through the broadleaf and conifer trees of Scotland’s first managed forest, with views to Kenmore and Loch Tay. There are two waymarked routes plus a number of other tracks shown on the appropriate Ordnance Survey map. The Black Rock Walk zig-zags up the forest road from the main car park, steadily climbing on a relatively easy gradient before turning westwards to the Black Rock viewpoint.
The Taymouth Walk is a more easterly circular route offering fine views of the Tay valley. Roe deer can sometimes be seen in this woodland and also the elusive capercaillie – an enormous forest grouse known as `the horse of the woods`. Begin the walks at main Forestry Commission car park located off the minor road that extends round the base of the hill and links Kenmore and the B846. GR 772462. Refreshments and food in Kenmore.
WEEM WOOD
Distance: 1 mile/1.5km
Approximate Time: 45 minutes
Height Gain: 180 metres
Further Info: `A Guide to Tay Forest Park` from Aberfeldy VIC or OS Landranger Map 52
Weem Wood lies on a steep craggy slope above the village of Weem. Begin at a small car park off the B846, 1½ miles/2.5km west of Aberfeldy. From here the circular walk is waymarked and rises steeply culminating in a fine view at St David's Well, a hermit's retreat used by St Cuthbert in the early days of Christianity.
The wood contains many fine specimen trees planted by the Menzies family in the nineteenth century to provide a spectacular backdrop to nearby Castle Menzies and gardens. (Open April to October). Refreshments and food available in Weem village.
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LONGER WALKS
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LOCH HOIL
Distance: 7.5 miles/ 12km
Approximate Time: 180 minutes
Height Gain: Negligible
Further Info: OS Landranger Map 52
This walk lies 4 miles/6km south of Aberfeldy and offers a pleasant forest circuit through a mix of conifer and native woodland. There are several open sections where heather and blaeberry predominate, with wide vistas north to The Foss Ridge and Schiehallion. The shores of Loch Hoil are easily accessible and the perfect mid way picnic spot. Roe deer live in these woods and, in summer, butterflies are on the wing, attracted by the wild flowers near the path. Begin at the informal car parking area off the A826 – GR 886 451. Not waymarked – map essential. Refreshments Aberfeldy.
GRIFFEN FOREST
Distance: 8 miles/12.5 km
Approximate Time: 210 minutes
Height Gain: Negligible
Further Info: OS Landranger Map 52 and map board in the car park
Griffen is a huge forested area, 4 miles/6km south of Aberfeldy, with many trails suitable for walking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing. The most popular circular route passes secluded Loch Kennard and Loch Scoly and starts from the official car park at GR 887452, off the A826. For the more adventurous it’s possible to mountain bike or walk across the forest to Dunkeld. OS map recommended. Refreshments Aberfeldy.
LAIRIG CHABHATH
Distance: 7.5 miles/12km (one way only)
Approximate Time: 210 minutes
Height Gain: 305 metres
Further Info: OS Landranger Map 51
A cross country linear walk from Glen Lyon to the shores of Loch Rannoch, following the old coffin route once used by members of Clan MacGregor living in the Rannoch and Glen Orchy areas. Begin at Innerwick in Glen Lyon where there is a car park and picnic area – GR 587 475 – and follow the path upwards to the top of the pass before descending to Carie on the loch shore. The latter stages of the route are through the pine woods of Rannoch Forest and the burn known as the Allt na Bogair tumbles gently near to the path. Picnic essential.
ACHARN TO ABERFELDY
Distance: 10 miles/16.5km (one way only)
Approximate Time: 5/6 hours
Height Gain: 300 metres approx.
Further Info: OS Landranger Map 52
There are great views from this high level linear route which links two wonderful woodland gorges, a pine wood and an expanse of heather moorland. The route begins at Acharn village, on the shores of Loch Tay, and follows the signposted track to the viewing platform at the top of the Falls. From there turn right onto the main track towards the open fields and follow the distinct route upwards and then east away from the gorge. The way ahead is clearly marked, passing through several gates and by Balmacnaughton Farm before reaching Kenmore Hill Pinewood. The high grassy path in this section is known as the Queen’s Drive, in memory of Queen Victoria’s visit to this spot whilst she was staying at nearby Taymouth Castle. Cross a wooden stile at a quiet minor road and walk up the road for just over a mile to reach a fishing hut and small loch. (Do not take the lower road near Tombuie Cottage). Cross the stile and follow the main estate track, keeping to the right where the route meets a junction. The sounds of moorland birds carry clearly in the wind and, as the path descends, the Urlar Burn runs close by. At Urlar Farmhouse walkers are directed through a gate and around a field. A minor road then leads down towards Aberfeldy. At the tiny Urlar Reservoir, turn right, across a stone wall, to join a small track through the birch wood. After a few minutes the track emerges at the top of the Birks of Aberfeldy, one of Perthshire’s best loved beauty spots. A bridge allows tremendous views of the roaring Falls of Moness and good paths descend on either side of the gorge taking you back to Aberfeldy town centre. Picnic and OS map essential. Refreshments Aberfeldy only.
A local Caber Coaches bus service runs from Aberfeldy to Acharn, ideal for walkers who wish to enjoy the route described above. Contact Aberfeldy VIC for the timetable.
Walkers should also note that grouse shooting may take place on the heather moorland section of this route between 12 August and 10 December. Walkers are advised to observe local signage and keep all dogs on a lead if a shoot is in progress.
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HILL AND MOUNTAIN WALKS
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SCHIEHALLION
Distance: 5.5 miles/ 9km
Approximate Time: 210 minutes
Height Gain: 750 metres
Further Info: `Walks North Perthshire` Hallewell Pocket Walking Guide available from Aberfeldy VIC or OS Landranger Map 51
Schiehallion (translated as Fairy Hill of the Caledonians) is one of Scotland’s best known landmarks and best loved hills. Braes of Foss car park is the usual start point for an ascent (GR 753 558), located off a minor road that runs off the B846 between Tummel Bridge and Aberfeldy. From here an obvious path climbs to the broad and rocky summit ridge, where walkers can enjoy invigorating views over the Great Moor of Rannoch. In recent years The John Muir Trust, a leading wild land conservation body, has done extensive restoration work on the footpath. Birds of prey soar and hunt over Schiehallion and moorland birds such as grouse, ptarmigan and whinchats can also be seen.
BEN LAWERS
Distance: 6 miles/ 9.5km
Approximate Time: 300 minutes
Height Gain: 1000 metres
Further Info: OS Landranger Map 51
Ben Lawers is the highest mountain in Perthshire and the tenth highest in Scotland and, on a clear day, has summit views from the Atlantic to the North Sea. The National Trust for Scotland Mountain Visitor Centre has a large car park which marks the start of the most popular route of ascent to the top. The well worn path climbs up by the Edramucky Burn and then onto steeper grassy slopes as, first Beinn Ghlas, and then Lawers itself are reached. Return by the same route. The Ben Lawers range has seven Munros (a Scottish mountain over 3000ft) linked bv a twisting ridge and offers many great routes for experienced walkers. Much of the range is designated as a National Nature Reserve in recognition of the unique range of arctic – alpine plants found on the slopes.
TARMACHAN RIDGE
Distance: 8 miles/13km
Approximate Time: 300 minutes
Height Gain: 744 metres
Further Info: OS Landranger Map 51
The Tarmachan Ridge is the narrowest mountain ridge in Perthshire and is a rough and entertaining ridge walk that takes in Meall nan Tarmachan (Ptarmigan Hill). The best starting point for walkers is just north west of the National Trust for Scotland Visitor Centre (on the slopes of neighbouring Ben Lawers). At GR 603 384 a smaller car park is visible where a bridge crosses a small stream. From here the route ascends steeply to Meall nan Tarmachan and onto the ridge scramble proper. At the end of the ridge walkers can descend via Coire Fionn Lairige and pick up an estate track back to the starting point. Experienced hillwalkers only.
STUCHD AN LOCHAIN
Distance: 5 miles/8km
Approximate Time: 240 minutes
Height Gain: 650 metres
Further Info: OS Landranger Map 51
A fine hill in the remote country of upper Glen Lyon, Stuchd an Lochain translates as `peak of the small loch` and walkers will discover a dramatic corrie with a tiny glistening lochan at its heart. The walk starts at the Loch an Daimh dam, (GR 510464) beneath which there is plenty of space for car parking. From the dam take a westwards route, climbing steadily across the heather covered slopes to reach Creag an Fheadain and the grassy top that looks into Coire an Duich. The route continues west to the hill summit, a fantastic viewpoint for tiny Lochan nan Cat (213 metres below). Return by the same route or head down the steep north facing slope of Stuchd an Lochain to reach the loch shore. Refreshments available at Glen Lyon Post Office Tearoom, Bridge of Balgie.
MEALL BUIDHE
Distance: 6 miles/9.5km
Approximate Time: 210 minutes
Height Gain: 510 metres
Further Info: OS Landranger Map 51
Meall Buidhe is `the yellow hill` (pronounced myowl – booee) and offers a great day out for the less experienced walker – a straightforward route with the added bonus of tremendous views to surrounding peaks. The starting point is the impressive hydro-electric scheme dam beneath Loch an Daimh (GR 510464). The single track road ends here and there are plenty of grassy areas suitable for car parking. Walk up to reach the level of the loch and head northwards on heathery slopes to reach the easterly top of Meall a Phuill. From there a gentle climb on grassy turf leads to the top. The vast peaty expanse of Rannoch Moor lies to the west and, in clear conditions, the magical peaks of Glencoe, the Mamores and Ben Nevis itself are visible. Return by the same route. Refreshments available at Glen Lyon Post Office Tearoom, Bridge of Balgie.
CARN GORM, MEALL GARBH & CARN MAIRG CIRCUIT
Distance: 10.5 miles/17km
Approximate Time: 390 minutes
Height Gain: 1370 metres
Further Info: OS Landranger Map 51
A stunning circular walk on the high hills of Glen Lyon with panoramic views across Perthshire and beyond. Their Gaelic names colourfully translate as: `blue hill`; `rough hill`; and `hill of sorrow`! The usual start point is at Invervar (GR 665484) where there is a small car parking area suitable for 8 cars. When it is full walkers are invited to walk elsewhere and return another day. Please don't park in the village or on the narrow glen road as this affects verge/ground conservation and the long term ecology of the glen. Take the track on the opposite side of the road, this wanders through woodland for approximately 1 mile/1.5km before emerging into the open glen near to the Invervar Burn. A stalkers path runs up the south east ridge of Carn Gorm affording great views along the length of Glen Lyon. From the summit descend slightly to An Sgorr and continue in a clockwise direction to reach Meall Garbh and onto the level stony top of Carn Mairg. A long steady descent on grassy slopes leads back to Invervar.
Please check access with North Chesthill estates (T: 01887 877267) during the stalking season as certain parts of the range may be restricted during September, October and November.
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LONG DISTANCE WALKS
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THE ROB ROY WAY
A seven day walk through some of Scotland’s most beautiful countryside, following in the footsteps of the notorious outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor. This route covers 79 miles (124 kilometres) across the Southern Highlands from Drymen on the West Highland Way to the Perthshire town of Pitlochry, passing Loch Venacher, Loch Lubnaig and Loch Tay.
For further information please visit www.robroyway.com
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