Invertrossachs: A Short Walk in the Rain

Summer has faded fast in Scotland, trees are already turning copper and I don't think I have managed a non-jacket day since the first of August. Despite the chilling climate, this weekend we found a great walk that is enjoyable for this changeable season, a short jaunt on the south side of Loch Venachar to a secret mini loch near the forest. To get to the small car parking area we left the Callandar to Brig o' Turk road (A821) on the South side of Loch Venachar and continued on the minor road past Invertrossachs house to the car park near the cycle route. We started our walk by turning out the car park and continuing to the left past the Loch and the boat club. There were a lot of canoes and small boats on the Loch as we passed and even someone in swimming (which made me instantly feel warmer!). Despite being near the Loch there are plenty of trees nearby which gave some shelter to the drizzly windy day.

We continued on this path until we got to a signpost of the left pointing out the Right of Way to Aberfoyle via the Menteith Hills. We followed this path up a steep grassy hill and through some overgrown ferns. As we pushed past the foliage we were spattered in water so I would recommend a waterproof if doing this walk on a damp day. The upwards climb was fairly steady with rocky paths to lead the way. Once the route levels out you can take time to observe the beautiful view of the Loch below. At the time we went there were a lot of trees cut down and some had been lain over the track we were following. To get around this we took a brief detour through the edge of the forrest just to get around the logs then continued back on the path, with the forrest on either side providing cover from the elements.

 

This route shortly led us to the hidden Loch (and Scout hut on its banks). On a warmer/ drier day this would be a lovely spot for a rest and picnic and I can even imagine people out canoeing on the secret Loch. At this point we walked past the Scout hut and started on the stroll back to the car park, following the clear path. We passed a few cyclists along the road here and looked out over Loch Venachar and spotted a rainbow (perks of Autumn showers!).

Altogether the walk, at a leisurely pace, took us around 1hr 30mins and is great for all abilities and weather conditions. I loved spotting the changing colours of late Summer into Autumn while also having the shelter of the forrest around us. The views of Loch Venachar and the opposing banks were impressive while the Hidden Loch was peaceful and still (and made me feel like I had discovered something that those in cars cannot!). Hopefully, the sun will last for a couple more walks this year, but if not I'm glad to know there are some shorter hikes for rainy days.

The facts on Invertrossachs walk:

• Starting point is at the car park behind Invertrossachs House.
• Nearest toilets are in Callendar which are free to access.
• Walk is around 3 miles.
• Takes around: 1.5hours at a casual pace.
• Difficult Points: Slightly steep climb through overgrown foliage and if logs are across the track.
• Wear: Waterproofs if the weather needs it and longer trousers for going through high ferns.
• Perfect for all abilities including children and pets.