Kinlochard on Loch Ard: Trails, Forest and Water

Kinlochard is a small village at the end of Loch Ard, in the heart of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. The freshwater loch, forest paths and varied walking routes give the destination a distinctive natural character. Those planning a trip with active days, water-based experiences and exceptional landscapes will find several ways to make their stay varied.

Between Loch, Forest and Viewpoints

Loch Ard is approximately 2.5 miles long and one mile wide. The loch is considered the source of the River Forth and lies in a protected setting suitable for water sports such as kayaking and open-water swimming. Roe deer, squirrels, capercaillies and woodland birds, among others, can be spotted around Loch Ard. This means that accommodation in Kinlochard can be combined with excursions on the water or nature watching, depending on your personal travel plans.

The forest paths also offer a range of options: they are suitable for walking, mountain biking and horse riding. The Lochan Spling Trail is 2½ miles (4.2 km) long and leads through scenic countryside to a small loch rich in wildlife. The route is suitable for walking or cycling. Those who prefer a longer route can plan the Eight Mile Loop. It is 8½ miles (13.8 km) long, follows the shore of Loch Ard and then climbs to viewpoints overlooking Ben Venue and Ben Lomond.

Walking Trails of Different Lengths

For a shorter outing, the Forth Valley Viewpoint Trail is a good option. It is 2 miles (3.4 km) long and takes about an hour. The Loch Àrd Sculpture Trail, by contrast, combines a route through the forest with unusual sculptures. It is 4¼ miles (6.7 km) long and takes about 2½ hours. This information helps you choose a suitable route length for each day without limiting your itinerary to a single activity.

The Loch Ard Loop car park provides additional orientation: at its entrance, signs point towards Kinlochard; this is followed by a 2.4-km section passing Lochan a’ Ghleannain. For travel to the area, the C61 service stops in Kinlochard on a route via Callander, Thornhill, Port of Menteith and Aberfoyle.

Water Experiences and History

Loch Ard has a sailing club affiliated with the RYA. Fishing has taken place in these waters for centuries; the loch is noted for good conditions for fly fishing for brown trout, as well as varied opportunities for fishing for pike and perch. Loch Ard Adventure offers group bookings for stand-up paddleboarding on Loch Ard. When planning your trip, you can therefore choose between peaceful observation, individual activities and a booked group experience.

The history of the area is also connected with the loch: Robert Dick was a Victorian pioneer of tourism associated with Loch Ard. When looking for a holiday flat or holiday cottage in Kinlochard, you can therefore consider whether you want your trip to focus more on walking trails, water activities, nature watching, or a combination of landscape and history.

Other Places for Your Travel Plans

If you would like to expand your search beyond Kinlochard, you can also visit the pages for Callander, Balfron, Stronachlachar, Cambusbarron, Kippen, Fintry, Lochearnhead and Doune.

For the higher-level travel overview: Stirling.