Local Attractions

Tyndrum is a truly spectacular area to visit with many outstanding Munro mountains in the area including Ben Lui, Ben More, Stobinian, Ben Dorain, Ben Dothaidh and many more with Ben Lawers only twenty minutes drive away. Tyndrum is also in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park with Loch Lomond itself only twenty minutes by vehicle. Apart from the splendid scenery the area has a fascinating history with St Fillans Chapel only a short distance from Strathfillan Wigwams on neighbouring Kirkton Farm. The Chapel originates from the twelfth century, St Fillan having been trained on Iona before introducing Christianity to the area. To the western edge of Auchtertyre farm lies the ancient healing pool in the river Fillan where physically and mentally ill locals were taken in the hope of a cure for their afflictions.Further west, just off the A82 lies Dalrigh, also known as the King's Field, where King Robert the Bruce was involved in a battle with the McDougalls of Argyll in 1306 when he was defeated and only narrowly escaped with his life.

If taking a day out to wander the hills you may be fortunate enough to spot Golden Eagles, Red Deer, Red Fox or if staying particularly quiet near the woodland on the Mheall at Auchtertyre in the evening there is a possibility of seeing Badgers coming out to feed. Otter also frequent the local river but like the Badger are particularly shy. Not so shy but still worthy of respect, particularly with young calves at foot, are the magnificent Highland Cattle often seen close to the road at Auch Farm, between Tyndrum and Bridge of Orchy, where a large breeding herd is maintained. These cattle really are admirable and can be viewed in close-up at local Agricultural Shows such as Dalmally or by stopping for a chat with Hamish the Highland bullock at Kilmahog Woollen Mill by Callander.

Local Highland Games such as Killin International Games are a real spectacle with Highland Dancing, Piping competitions, "heavy" events such as Caber Tossing and Hammer Throwing proving a special attraction. Pipe-Bands on the march are always uplifting with the combination of kilts swinging and bagpipes playing delighting locals and visitors alike.

The remains of old Lead Mines are still visible to west of Tyndrum and there is Gold in them thar hills. A gold mine was excavated a few years ago at Cononish but requires global gold prices to rise to become economic. Gold panning in the nearby streams is still well worth a try and attracts regular visits from dedicated, RICH, panners!

Fishing is popular on the River Fillan where salmon and trout provide the challenge and permits may be purchased at Strathfillan Wigwams.The Cononish Water and River Fillan form the headwaters of the River Tay where the largest British rod caught Salmon, a mighty 64lbs, was landed in 1922, by a lady. There are also local lochs well worthy of a visit with some of these being stocked. For children there is an easier option at Drummond Trout Farm and Fishery where Rainbow Trout are more readily caught and a similar facility exists at Loch Awe Smokery.

Pony trekking is available on beautiful Highland Ponies at Blair Castle where a breeding stud is maintained. Other trekking sites are near Port of Menteith at Rednock Farm or near Oban at Achnalarig Farm, Glencruitten.

Many specialist activities are available further afield including Quad Bikes and Off-road 4x4 Driving particularly in the Aberfeldy and Fort William areas. (see links page)

Canoeing is another great attraction on the River Orchy where conditions can test even the most accomplished paddlers at times with grade 4 & grade 5 rapids making this the biggest white water rafting river in the UK. Further afield the Tay at Grandtully is renowned and Standing Waves Leisure offer facilities at Strathyre. You can also try water-skiing on Loch Earn where there are excellent facilities including disabled tuition.

Two nine hole golf courses are available locally at Dalmally and Killin. The course at Dalmally nestles at the foot of mighty Ben Cruachan and has been described as "testing" with relatively narrow fairways. Killin golf course lies on the banks of Loch Tay close to the village on the Aberfeldy road in a magnificent setting near the foot of Ben Lawers. Slightly further afield at Oban is the eighteen hole Glencruitten Golf Club designed by James Braid.

The area is renowned for winter sports with the Crianlarich and Tyndrum hills offering amazing winter climbing. The ski resort of Glencoe is only twenty minutes away and Aonach Mor around an Hour.

For activities contact details see Links page