Sutherland’s Grove
COVID-19 update
All FLS visitor centres are currently closed. Walking and mountain bike trails remain open, as do most toilets and car parks, but do check below for local updates for closures.
We want to ensure your visit is an enjoyable and safe one.
Make sure you follow the Scottish Government’s FACTS advice – helping to protect yourself, your family and your local community, and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code helping to keep Scotland beautiful.
Latest forest information
- Notice to gorge users: storm damage has changed the existing natural conditions. New windbow may present potentially unstable conditions. Safety aspects need to be reconsidered
Soaring fir trees, a rocky gorge, waterfalls and stunning views
Enjoy a gentle riverside stroll through a grove of towering firs, or climb beside a dramatic gorge carved out by the rushing Abhainn Teithil Burn in search of waterfalls and lofty bridges.
Guide map to the forests of North Argyll (PDF 5.8MB)
Walking trails
Giant Fir Trail
A lovely shady meander through soaring Douglas firs and beside the burn – be sure to bring a picnic. In summer, the forest is carpeted with beautiful wildflowers.
A wide, firm surface. Generally flat with short gentle gradients.
Allow ¼ hours
Look out for the stone memorial, just off the path, that dedicates this atmospheric grove to Lord Sutherland of the Forestry Commission. Listen for woodland birds in the canopy and see if you can spot plump dippers bobbing beside the burn.
Gorge Trail
A lovely short loop that takes in a number of the forest's highlights. You follow the river up to the dramatic gorge, before returning through mixed woodland.
A varied route with, some steep, rough and rocky sections. Can be narrow in places. Often wet and muddy after rain.
Allow ¾ hour
Listen for birds singing in the trees.
Troll Trail (diverted)
A trail notice is in effect
- Due to essential tree felling in the forest, the footbridge over the gorge and section of single track trail which meets the forest road will be temporarily closed from Monday 28th September. Works should be completed by end of October.
- Diversion in place: From the top of the closed footbridge follow the path up the gorge which will also lead to the upper part of the forest.
Explore the woods a bit further and meet the troll who lives beside the footbridge above the gorge.
Varied with some fairly steep, rough and rocky sections. Can be narrow in places. Often wet and muddy after rain. One bridge with a steep narrow flight of steps.
Allow 1¼ hours
This trail is a great place to spot red squirrels.
Activities
Explore further
If you're feeling adventurous, head further into this lovely woodland on foot or by bike to find Glen Dubh reservoir and enjoy fantastic views over the Firth of Lorne and its islands. Ordnance Survey maps Explorer 376: Oban & North LornOban & North Lorn and Landranger 49: Oban & East MullOban & East Mull cover the forest roads.
Facilities & access
There is a small shop, a petrol station and a seasonal café in Benderloch to the south, and public toilets, a shop and places to eat and drink at Port Appin to the north.
Getting here
Sutherland’s Grove is on the east side of the A828 just north of Barcaldine. Look for our sign to the car park about 350 yards north of the village school and campsite.
Using SatNav?
PA37 1SQ is the nearest postcode.
Public transport
There are regular buses between Oban and Fort William that stop in Barcaldine. Plan your journey at Traveline Scotland.
Get in touch
Have a question or suggestion for improvement?