Aberfoyle

Head uphill or along the river from the centre of historic Aberfoyle

Aberfoyle village lies on the edge of Loch Ard Forest and beside the River Forth, which rises at nearby Loch Ard. Sample the village's history and wildlife on the wooded trails here and discover its strange links with the world of fairies and elves.

Walking trails

Aberfoyle route card (PDF)

Walking

Doon Hill Trail

Climb to the top of Doon Hill to find a solitary Scots pine amongst the oaks. It is thought to mark the entrance to a Fairy Queen’s underground palace.

Uneven gravel path with some narrow, rough rocky and muddy sections, as well as exposed tree roots. Long steep slopes onto Doon Hill.

2 ¼ miles / 3.5 km

Allow 1 ½ hours

More information

This trail begins by crossing the old stone bridge over the River Forth, then passes an ancient kirk and the cemetery where Reverend Kirk is buried. Once in the forest, the route winds up to the top of Doon Hill. Enjoy the view over Aberfoyle and the hills beyond as you catch your breath.

Look out for the big Scots pine on the summit. Some say it's a fairy tree and a great place to make a wish – or you could try running around it seven times, which is said to make the fairies appear!

 

Activities

Historic long distance trails

Look out for fingerposts to two historic routes from Aberfoyle. The Statute Labour Road links Aberfoyle and Loch Arklet and makes a great long distance cycle route to Loch Katrine. The Military Road connects Aberfoyle with the West Highland Way and Loch Lomond at Inversnaid. It was originally built to service the 18th century Inversnaid Garrison.

There are stunning views along these old routes, but do be aware of the distances and remote, open terrain involved.

The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre

Visit The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre,1 mile north of Aberfoyle on the A821 (Follow signs for Forest Park Visitor Centre), for a wide range of activities including Go Ape Aberfoyle, orienteering, walking, cycling and wildlife watching.

Facilities and access

Walking

Parking

Toilets

Easy-access facilities

Tourist information

Cafe or refreshments

Picnic area

There are public toilets at the car park, and plenty of places to eat, drink and shop in Aberfoyle.

Car parking information

There is no charge to park in this car park. Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.

More about parking

Getting here

Park at Aberfoyle's Riverside Car Park, just off the main road next to the Trossachs Discovery Centre and Scottish Wool Centre.

Using SatNav?

FK8 3UQ is the nearest postcode.

Public transport

There are regular buses from Stirling to Aberfoyle. Plan your journey at Traveline Scotland.

Get directions