Brig O’ Turk Gaelic: Aird cheannchnocain meaning ‘the stream at the hillock head’.
A small peaceful village between Callander and Aberfoyle, Brig O’Turk is situated in the heart of the Trossachs.
On the way to Brig O’Turk from Aberfoyle you travel through the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and past the David Marshall Lodge Visitor Centre situated one mile above Aberfoyle high up on the Duke’s Pass. Continue on this road which must be one of the most scenic drives in Scotland and you arrive at Loch Achray with views of Ben Venue, and Ben A’an. The approach from Callander is via Kilmahog and travels along Loch Venachar with its sailing centre, before arriving at Brig O’Turk.
The majestic building of Tign Mhor holiday bond resort, a former hotel, comes into view and if the time of day and light are right is a picture postcard view. A few 100 yards further on, sitting beside Loch Achray, is the beautiful Trossachs Church which is a popular venue for getting married due to its fantastic location. Drive for another 5 mins and you will at last come to Brig O’Turk with its Tea Room and the Byre Inn Restaurant and Bar. The Tearoom featured in the 1959 version of “The 39 Steps” a film based on the book by John Buchan. Its one of many locations in The Trossachs and Loch Lomond that have featured in films over the years.
The walk around Glen Finglas which feature on our walking routes page, starts from the car park 1 mile up the minor road next to the tearoom and is a 15 mile strenuous circular walk rewarded with magnificent views. A few miles to the west of Brig O’Turk is Loch Katrine and its pier complex which is another popular destination. You can take a cruise on Loch Katrine aboard the SS Sir Walter Scott with an option to alight at Stronachlacher and then discover Inversnaid and Loch Lomond or walk back to the pier on the north road, a walk of some 13 miles but well worth it. There is also a cafe and a cycle hire facility at Loch Katrine pier.
The village also has a history of scandal. In the mid 19th century this was the location of the famous Victorian love triangle between John Ruskin, his wife, Effie Gray and John Everett Millais.
Brig O’ Turk has the following facilities
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