Strathyre village is about 9 miles north of Callander and it is possible to cycle to Strathyre from Callander on the old railway track which now forms part of The National Cycle Route 7, a long distance cycle route from Carlisle to Inverness. This is one of the most popular cycling routes in the area as its possible to hire bikes in Callander and it is a popular day out for visitors. From Strathyre there are various routes to take following NCR 7 along to the Strathyre Outdoor Center and onto Balquhidder, visit the grave of Rob Roy MacGregor and then either returning via the same route or by taking one of the way-marked walking routes outlined below.
Cycle Maps
The above maps have been provided courtesy of the Forestry Commission Scotland. Most routes are suitable for cyclists and walkers. Please click on the icon to show an enlarged map, information on the difficulty of the route, footwear etc.
On a firm path, which is quite narrow in places, the trail takes you into Strathyre Forest. Passing through native woodland alongside large broadleaf trees and stands of mature conifer, the trial gives you a taste of the forest environment.
From the car park, cross the road and follow the lane to your right for a short distance. Through native broadleaves then tall conifers the narrow path follows the Tigh Ness Burn. As the path climbs into Strathyre Forest there are fine views of Beinn an t-Sidhein, Benvane and the Braes of Balquhidder. The route crosses the burn on a wooden bridge before starting its descent through the forest and back to the car park.
From the car park the path leads across the River Balvaig before heading into Strathyre Forest. The path surface is generally firm but very steep in places and some sections may have loose surfaces material. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the woodland as you climb steadily through the forest to the open hill. Leaving the forest behind the path climbs on and as you approach the summit the views are superb. Among the numerous peaks are Ben Vane, Ben Ledi, Ben Vorlich and STuc a’Croin. Loch Lubnaig and the viall of Strathyre lie far below, with Loch Earn and Lochearnhead to the North East.
The path is generally firm though there may be some loose surface material and it is steep in places. Enjoy the tranquility and variety of the woodland environment as you walk through the mature mixed conifer of Strathyre Forest. Many animals also make their home in this forest. If you are lucky you could see a Roe Deer, a Red Squirrel, a Buzzard, Woodpecker or Siskin.
Important Message from the Forestry Commission Scotland:
Many of the Forestry Commission Scotland’s trails and forest roads are suitable for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. Please show consideration and courtesy to everyone you meet. Some trails and paths are less suited to cyclists and horse riders because of the gradients and surfaces. Please behave responsibly in helping us to maintain these routes. Please remember also that forests are working landscapes and that forestry vehicles also use these roads.