The Trossachs, Scotland - The Pier at Loch Katrine Callander .Strathyre . Balquhidder . Killin . Doune . Stirling . Brig o' Turk . Trossachs Pier . Aberfoyle . Stronachlachar . Lochearnhead The Queen Elizabeth Forest Park . Walking . Hill walking . Cycling

About The Pier at Loch Katrine

Steamship Sir Walter Scott

At the heart of The Trossachs is Loch Katrine and the Trossachs Pier visitor complex. Once operated almost as an 'aside' by Scottish Water, it is now operated much more efficiently by a trust which has accomplished a great deal to make a visit to the Trossachs Pier a much more enjoyable experience.

The Pier complex is located at the eastern end of Loch Katrine and is accessed via a short stretch of road from the west end of Loch Achray on the A821. This short length of road actually leads through the narrow pass between Ben Venue and Ben A'an which is the original "Trossachs". The name is derived from the Gaelic "Na Tròisichean" which means "bristly Country" - the reason becomes apparent as you drive up this short road. Once you reach the pier area there is a large 'pay as you stay' carpark - the only downside to the whole place.

There are toilets beside the cycle hire shop.

Things to see and do

At and around the pier you'll find enouigh to keep you occupied for a day - or more if you have the energy and good weather:

• A restaurant at the pier
• Bicycle hire shop which also has some battery powered buggies for the less mobile among us - You can cycle all the way to Stronachlachar (about 12 miles) and return by steamer.
• Steamer SS Sir Walter Scott sailings to Stronachlachar at the west end of the loch and also shorter circular excursions
• Two smaller cruise boats which provide excursions around the islands and sheltered coves
• A tarmac road - almost traffic free which takes you all the way to Stronachlachar - by bike or on foot - you can return by way of the steamer if you get your timing right

Close by:

• Several trails around the centre in woodlands
• Ben A'an hillwalk (1500ft, fairly easy)
• Ben Venue hillwalk (2340 ft, quite a hard walk - proper equipment required plus ability to use compass and map)
• The "Duke's Pass" - a scenic route to Aberfoyle through magnificent mountain and woodland landscapes
• Forest drives in the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park (small charge per car)
• The lovely little Trossachs Church by Loch Achray

Exploring the Trossachs

Places nearby to visit from Trossachs Pier include: Callander, Brig o' Turk, The Q.Elizabeth Forest Park and Aberfoyle