The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Loch Doine

There are several family-friendly hiking trails around Loch Doine, with a good mix of easy and moderate options. Our guide features 6 routes, including 3 easy and 3 moderate trails, ensuring there's something suitable for various family abilities.

The Loch Doine area offers diverse terrain suitable for families. You'll find serene lochside paths, gentle trails through forested glens like Kirkton Glen, and some routes with moderate ascents to viewpoints. Many paths are well-maintained, but some can be uneven, especially after rain. The single-track road along the northern shores of Loch Doine and Loch Voil also provides quiet walking opportunities.

Yes, there are easy and relatively short walks. For a gentle introduction, consider the Creag an Tuirc Viewpoint – Rob Roy's Grave loop from Balquhidder, which is just under 3 km and takes less than an hour. While some lochside paths are generally accessible, it's always best to check specific route details for pushchair suitability as terrain can vary.

The Loch Doine area is rich in history, especially related to Rob Roy Macgregor. Many trails pass by or near Rob Roy's Grave in the Old Kirk at Balquhidder. You can also visit the McLaren Stone Viewpoint for panoramic views over Balquhidder Glen. Keep an eye out for installations along the BLiSS Trail, such as the "Mirror Box" or "LookOut" between Loch Voil and Loch Doine, which offer unique scenic viewpoints.

Many trails in the Loch Doine area are dog-friendly, offering great opportunities for walks with your canine companion. However, always keep dogs under control, especially near livestock or wildlife, and adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Some routes may pass through areas where dogs need to be on a lead.

Yes, several routes are circular, making for convenient family outings. For example, the Rob Roy's Grave – Rob Roy's Grave, Balquhidder loop from Balquhidder is a moderate circular hike of about 9.5 km. Another option is the Rob Roy's Grave – Creag an Tuirc Viewpoint loop from Meall Monachyle, a longer moderate circular trail.

Parking is generally available in and around Balquhidder village, which serves as a common starting point for many trails. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages on komoot. Always park responsibly and considerately, especially in rural areas.

The region is home to a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, red squirrels, and various bird species, including buzzards. If you're lucky and quiet, you might even spot otters or pine martens near the lochs and in the forested areas. Early mornings or late evenings often provide the best chances for wildlife sightings.

The komoot community highly rates the Loch Doine area, with an average score of 4.36 stars from 182 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the tranquility of the lochs, and the historical points of interest, particularly those related to Rob Roy. The variety of trail difficulties also makes it appealing for different family needs.

While the area around Loch Doine is quite rural, Balquhidder village often has some basic amenities. For more options, nearby villages like Strathyre or Lochearnhead offer cafes, pubs, and accommodation. It's always a good idea to check opening times in advance, especially during off-peak seasons.

For a moderate hike with rewarding views, consider the Stone Circle at Loch Lomond – Shoreline of Loch Lomond loop from Ceann na Baintighearna. This route is about 10.6 km and takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes, offering beautiful shoreline perspectives and some elevation to enjoy the surrounding landscape.