Forest Walks
- Fir Hill is just one of the wonderful views from Gartmore House
Exploring the Forests
(Walk Grade B) Gentle/Moderate. Low altitude walks of between 3-4 hours, over paths and through forests. Some ascents and descents over rough ground with possible wet conditions underfoot.
| 19 - 23 October 2009 | Grade B | £395pp |
Within the National Park and around Gartmore House we are lucky to enjoy miles of the most beautiful and picturesque forest trails. In spring and autumn the foliage is outstanding. These walks will take you through the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park showing the best hilltop and lochside viewpoints.
Our forests are also working forests and for your information we proudly include a quick tour around our own biomass heating which uses the woodchip from the forest within a five mile radius.
Arrive late afternoon on the Monday to cream tea in the lounge and a warm welcome from your tutor.
A thought for the day is given each morning, for all staff and guests who choose to take a few minutes reflection before beginning the day's activities.
Wednesday afternoon gives free time to explore on your own or visit a local attraction.
Spend the evenings in our lounge where we provide a variety of entertainment which could include a history of the house with its wonderful tale of politics poetry and passion, quizzes and an evening of Scottish music, or if you choose, just relax beside the log fire.
Departure is after breakfast on the Friday.
Walking Itinerary
Tuesday - todays walk will take you on the forestry tracks and along the banks of the River Forth towards Aberfoyle via Balliech, a small settlement for forestry workers. A visit to the David Marshall Lodge above Aberfoyle includes a short trail through the woods to a beautiful waterfall with a 50 foot drop. You will return back to Gartmore House, via the old railway line.
Wednesday - This morning's walk will be in the Loch Ard Forest and around the secluded and peaceful Lochan Spling, a small loch. Heading back towards Aberfoyle, there is a short ascent up Doon Hill, where local legend tells of fairies who spirited away the body of Reverend Kirk in 1692.
Thursday - After a drive over the scenic Dukes Pass, today you will walk in the Achray Forest, a few miles north of Gartmore. You will have magnificent views of the Trossachs and the surrounding lochs and burns as you enjoy the trails in this working forest.
Accommodation
Your stay will be in the comfort of Gartmore House, all rooms are ensuite and many have wonderful views over Flanders Moss towards Stirling. Each room will contain tea and coffee making facilities, a pamper pack to ease out the day and a full set of maps and itineraries for your holiday. Our library is also well stocked with books on the local area.
All meals are freshly prepared by our Chef, using some of our garden produce, and provide a hearty wholesome fayre for your holiday. Any special diets can be catered for if the Chef is given notice prior to your arrival.
A drying room on site is provided for your clothing, should there be a downpour.
Transport
Transport is provided where necessary to and from trails.
Pick ups can be arranged from Stirling Train Station by prior arrangement.
Useful Links and Information
Queen Elizabeth Forest Park
David Marshall Lodge
Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park
If you would like more details, a brochure, or to book, please email us on mail@gartmorehouse.com
Tel 01877 382 991
or complete the online enquiry form by clicking the link
