MASTER TEMPLATE- Self Guided RRW

Number of Travellers: 2

Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights

Overview

The Rob Roy Way is a long-distance hiking trail through the southern Highlands.

Starting in the village of Drymen, you’ll hike for 127 km/79 miles across the Trossachs and through Perthshire to the pretty Highland town of Pitlochry and the end of the trail.

The route takes you through quiet forests, past beautiful lochs, across open moorlands and rolling hills, following a way-marked trail. It passes through the lands once home to Highland clans, including its famous namesake the cattle-reiver Rob Roy MacGregor.

Highlights

Follow the path once used by Rob Roy MacGregor, Scotland's most notorious outlaw.
Experience the breathtaking views of The Rob Roy Way, taking in ancient woodlands, open moorlands and rolling hills.
Enjoy the sense of accomplishment each day, hiking from point to point, covering 79 miles along this trail.

Day by Day

Day 1 - Arrive in Drymen

Today you make your way to the village of Drymen, where your overnight accommodation is included, and spend the night there before hitting the trail tomorrow morning.

Day 1 - Drymen Read More +

Drymen is a small village in the west of Scotland forming the gateway to East Loch Lomond. In the 1700s Drymen found itself on the route of the military road from Stirling to Dumbarton. The Clachan Inn, on a corner of The Square dates back to this period and carries signs proclaiming that it was first licensed in 1734. The area – steeped in history – is Clan Buchanan country. Rob Roy McGregor was a ‘local’ and this is the area in which he carried out his famous (or infamous) exploits against the Duke of Montrose.

Day 2 - Drymen to Aberfoyle

Starting in the centre of Drymen, your hike begins with a single step! The first few miles out of the village are on quiet road, but soon you are turning off onto forest trails which take you through the ancient Loch Ard Forest and the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park to Aberfoyle. It is straightforward hiking on good trails, making a good warm up day.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk Details: 18 km / 11 miles | 230 m / 755 ft elevation gain

Day 2 - Aberfoyle Read More +

A picturesque village in the district of Stirling, situated on the River Forth which rises in nearby Loch Ard and flows eastwards to the sea. The river soon reaches the vast Forth Valley and Stirling where it meanders and becomes tidal before transforming into the magnificent Firth of Forth and the North Sea. In 1885 the Duke of Montrose constructed a road over the eastern shoulder of Craigmore Hill above Aberfoyle to join the older road at the entrance of the Trossachs pass. Famously, the First Duke of Montrose was a benefactor of Rob Roy MacGregor and in 1711advanced him a loan of 1000 pounds. The money was stolen by MacGregor’s head drover and consequently,Montrose seized Rob Roy’s lands and evicted his family. This resulted in Rob Roy unleashing a campaign of revenge against the Duke which lasted for many years. In 1810 Sir Walter Scott published ‘Lady of the Lake’ and asa result.

Day 3 - Aberfoyle to Callander

This morning an ascent out of Aberfoyle leads you to the top of the Menteith Hills. The path continues through forest and open moorland before you descend to picturesque Loch Venachar. From here a short section of road takes you a last rise through Coihallan Wood before the route arrives in the village of Callander, known as the Gateway to the Highlands.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk Details: 16 km / 10 miles | 247 m / 810 ft elevation gain

Day 3 - Callander Read More +

(Gaelic: Calasraid) is a small town in Stirlingshire and situated on the River Teith. The town serves as the eastern gateway to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, the first National Park in Scotland. Due to its location itis often referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Highlands.’ The former St. Kessog’s Church is now the Tourist InformationCentre. Saint Kessog was an Irish missionary of the sixth century. Dominating the town to the north are theCallander Crags, a visible part of the Highland Boundary Fault, rising to 343 metres at the summit cairn. The nearby hill to the north-west of Callander is Ben Ledi (879 metres). Callander achieved prominence during the 1960s as the fictional town of ‘Tannochbrae’ in the original BBC television series Dr. Finlay’s Casebook.

Day 4 - Callander to Strathyre

Today’s route is an easy distance along a well built cycle track that provides stress free walking and allows you to really enjoy the views around you. Setting out from Callander you cross the river and then walk north through the Pass of Leny, and soon reach the shores of Loch Lubnaig. The rest of the hike is easy along the shore of the loch until you reach the end and the village of Strathyre shortly afterwards.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk Details: 15 km / 9 miles | 152 m / 499 ft elevation gain

Day 4 - Strathyre Read More +

Strathyre (Gaelic: Srath Eadhair) is a village in Stirlingshire and is within the bounds of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. The district of Strathyre extends from east of Balquhidder following the River Balvaig which flows out of Loch Voil almost due south to Loch Lubnaig. The Strath (translation: broad mountain valley) was the route of the former Callander and Oban Railway and an 18th century military road. The village of Strathyre is largely a Victorian creation, having grown up with the arrival of the railway in the 1870s and the establishment of Strathyre railway station. The resident population recorded by the United Kingdom Census 2001 was around 100. Strathyre has a small primary school with 40 pupils on the roll, drawn from a catchment area that includes Balquhidder. Gaelic is taught in the infant school.

Day 5 - Strathyre to Killin

The first part of today’s route ascends into the forest above Strathyre with good views across the glen. It then descends again and winds its way to Lochearnhead before climbing once more to join a disused railway that leads north into Glen Ogle. Following the track that leads you on toward the distant peaks of the Tarmachan Ridge you arrive in the village of Killin, and can admire the beautiful falls of Dochart before continuing to your accommodation.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk Details: 22 km / 14 miles | 340 m / 1,115 ft elevation gain

Day 5 - Killin Read More +

Killin (Cill Fhinn ‘the White, or Fair, Church’ in Gaelic) is at the western end of Loch Tay. The scenic Falls of Dochart, at the west end of the village are formed by the meeting of the rivers Dochart and Lochay. The falls are crossed by a narrow stone bridge. The MacNab Clan were once dominant here and their ancient burial ground is on Inchbuie in the River Dochart, just below the falls. In 1767 the minister of Killin, James Stuart, published the first New Testament in Scottish Gaelic. The Breadalbane Folklore Centre in the Victorian former village mill displays the ‘healing stones’ of Saint Fillan (probably two 8th century monks). The nearby old copper mine at Tomnadashan is sometimes identified as the haunt of the Rabbit of Caerbannog of ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’ fame.

Day 6 - Killin to Ardtalnaig

A long steady ascent out of Killin offers some good views to the hills before you reach the moorland at the top. After crossing this a long descent takes you back to the loch-side at Ardeonaig. You then walk along quiet backroads for 6km before reaching Ardtalnaig. There is no accommodation on this section of the walk so a pre-arranged taxi will pick you up to take you back to Killin for a second night.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk Details: 19 km / 12 miles | 518 m / 1,699 ft elevation gain

Day 7 - Ardtalnaig to Aberfeldy

A short transfer takes you back to Ardtalnaig so that you can continue hiking where you stopped the previous day. An easy start takes you along the quiet road before the trail heads uphill at Acharn. Here you will see the fantastic Falls of Acharn before making your way along the path known as the Queen’s Drive. You continue on through forest to the splendid woodland gorge of the Birks (Falls) of Aberfeldy before descending down into the village. A long but rewarding day!

Note: The roadside sections on Loch Tay can be skipped by arranging alternate pick up and drop off points with the transfer drivers. You may like to do this to shorten a day’s walk for a rest, or to make time to explore more of the local area.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk Details: 24 km / 15 miles | 500 m / 1,640 ft elevation gain

Day 7 - Aberfeldy Read More +

Aberfeldy (Gaelic: Obar Pheallaidh) is a small market town located in Highland Perthshire with a population of 2000.The Falls of Moness are featured in a well-known poem by Robert Burns ‘The Birks of Aberfeldy.’ The town is known for ‘Wade’s Bridge’ built in 1733 and designed by architect William Adam, father of the more famous Robert Adam.General Wade, and later Major Caulfield was tasked with building roads and bridges across the Highlands to allowthe suppression of the Jacobites following the rebellions of 1715 and 1745, the latter led by Bonnie Prince Charlie.Wade & Caulfield built some 1200 miles of road and 700 bridges between 1725 and 1767 and in doing so transformed the Highlands. General Wade considered this bridge to be his greatest accomplishment. Aberfeldy is also mentioned in the traditional Loch Tay Boat Song and the River Tay is a famous Salmon fishing river. Aberfeldy has a Distillery, a memorial to the Black Watch and in 2002 the town was granted Fairtrade status.

Day 8 - Aberfeldy to Pitlochry

Your final day of hiking starts with an easy section alongside the River Tay before crossing the bridge above the rapids at Grandtully. The trail then leads uphill for a long steady climb with views back toward Strathtay. The path then crosses moorland before entering Fonab Forest where you start your descent to Pitlochry. Take care as you cross the busy A9, then walk easily across the River Tummel via a pretty iron footbridge and into town. The end of the trail is on the main street at a small memorial garden. You’ve made it!

Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk Details: 15 km / 9 miles | 318 m / 1,043 ft elevation gain

Day 8 - Pitlochry Read More +

Pitlochry Baile Chloichridh or Baile Chloichrigh in Gaelic, is a burgh in the council area of Perth and Kinross inScotland, lying on the River Tummel. Pitlochry dates largely from Victorian times, although the areas known as Moulin and Port-na-Craig are much older. History records that Moulin Kirk was granted by the Earl of Atholl toDunfermline Abbey in 1180 and Moulin became a burgh of barony in 1511. Port-na-Craig was the site of the original ferry over the River Tummel which operated until the suspension footbridge was built in 1913. The building between these two separate communities followed the construction of the military road north in the 18th century which followed the line of the present main street. After the railway station was built in 1863, Pitlochry became a favoured destination for tourists. In 1947 Pitlochry became a burgh. That year also saw the beginning of the construction of a dam as part of the Tummel hydro-electric power scheme. The dam and its fish ladder are a popular tourist attraction today.

Day 9 - Depart Pitlochry

After a leisurely breakfast, you can spend some time exploring the charming village centre before catching a train south to Glasgow or Edinburgh. On the way home you’ll have time to reflect on a beautiful hike through the Highlands you’re sure to remember.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More

Accommodation on a Bed and Breakfast basis in Guest Houses, Bed and Breakfasts, Small Hotels and Inns on the route
Luggage transfer for 1 bag per person for the duration of the trip, meaning you will only have to carry a day rucksack. Strict weight limit of 20kg per bag.
Route notes which include a map and full directions to your accommodation.
The services of the Wilderness Scotland Team prior to & during your trip.

Notes Read More

Luggage Transfer Details

Whilst on the Rob Roy Way your luggage will be transferred by Kingshouse Travel. Please ensure that your bags are ready for uplift each morning by 0930 hrs. Your bags will be waiting for you when you arrive at your accommodation each day.
There is no need to contact Kingshouse Travel as everything will be arranged for you. However, if you do need to contact them, they can be reached on Telephone: 01877 384768.
Mobile Numbers, in the event of an emergency are Graeme (07876 375982) and George (07733 895903).
Website www.kingshousetravel.com.

Your luggage should be clearly labelled with your name and lead booker name for the luggage transfer company to identify your bags.

One bag per person is included in the trip price and bags should be of a reasonable size and weight (maximum weight permitted is 20 kg). If you have additional bags or overweight bags, the luggage transfer company will charge an additional fee of £63 per bag.

Finally, please be aware that no laptops, tablets or similar items are to be left in luggage and no fragile or breakable objects to be left in luggage, eg glass bottles. Thank you.

BED & BREAKFAST

Breakfast is included at all stages of your trip.

PACKED LUNCHES

These are not included but can be ordered from most establishments, provided that you order upon arrival.Alternatively, on most days there are cafes, shops or restaurants where you can buy lunch on route. Your accommodation host will be able to advise you on this.

EVENING MEALS

These are not included but are available locally at all stages. It is essential, that, during the current climate, evening meals are booked as far in advance as possible. This is due to social distancing and a reduced number of places.

DIETARY/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS

Please advise the accommodation owners on arrival if you are vegetarian, vegan or have any other special dietary requirements.

ACCOMMODATION BOOKINGS

Since your accommodation has been booked on your behalf by Wilderness Scotland, it may be necessary to quote our name as a reference on arrival at your accommodation.

IMPORTANT – LATE ARRIVALS

Accommodation providers ask walkers to telephone them to advise if they intend to arrive any later than 1800 hrs.Walkers who do not arrive at their intended overnight stop will cause grave concern in respect of safety, so co‐operation in this matter is greatly appreciated. Contact phone numbers for all of your accommodations are provided in this pack.

CANCELLATION

If you decide that you cannot continue your walk, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can contact the establishments concerned.

CREDIT CARDS

The majority of establishments will accept credit cards (Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted but not Diners orAmerican Express). Otherwise, most establishments will accept either a UK cheque with a guarantee card,Travellers Cheques in pounds sterling and, of course, cash.

INSURANCE

Our aim is for you to have the best experience possible whilst in Scotland. We are aware that unforeseen circumstances can be quite challenging so our advice to all of our guests is to take out relevant insurance to help make things less of a challenge if the unforeseen happens.If travelling from a European country outside the UK your insurance policy should include medical cover, curtailment, sickness & injury cancellation prior to the trip and personal accident cover. We also strongly recommend you have cover for other travel and personal effects. If travelling from within the UK, we recommend you are insured for personal sickness & injury cancellation prior to the trip and any travel insurance you feel appropriate to your needs.If travelling from further afield, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand etc it is best to research insurance locally to cover all your travel and medical needs.

Inspiring Adventures in the Wild Places of Scotland

WALKING ROUTE NOTES

All routes are undertaken entirely at your own risk. Ensure you are properly equipped with sufficient food, suitable footwear and wind and waterproof outdoor clothing. Take the relevant Map with you and familiarise yourself with the use of a compass and bring this with you at all times. Please leave brief details of your intended route and anticipated return time with your accommodation hosts. Please confirm with them that you have returned safely at the end of your day.
All route timings are calculated on the time we would expect a reasonably fit person to complete the route with minimal stops. Please allow longer if you intend to relax and enjoy the views to the full, or if you feel your fitness levels are lower.These route notes are intended as helpful guidance only. You should be experienced in reading maps and using a compass prior to undertaking any walks in upland areas or remote coastal locations. You must use your judgment in order to decide whether the suggested daily route is within your capabilities, giving careful consideration to the wind and weather conditions on the day.

You are solely responsible for your own safety and well‐being in wilderness areas and you must undertake all walks at your own risk.
While we will do everything we possibly can to assist you in the unfortunate event of any accident or mishap, Wilderness Scotland Ltd will accept no responsibility for any accident or injury sustained during the course of your self‐guided walking holiday.

FARM ANIMALS

A few sections of the Way will take you through farmland and occasionally near farm animals. Farm animals are normally docile creatures and usually only show interest in you if there is food on offer. Please don’t feed the animals. All animals are protective of their young so do not put yourself between a cow and its calf for example.General rules for safe walking and to avoid distressing farm animals:

• Do not come between animals and their young

• Pass quickly, quietly, carefully and well away from animals

• Stay well away from any farm animal grouping or herd

• Watch the animals as you pass and be alert to any danger

• If you have a dog keep your dog on a leash

• Be prepared for cows to react to your presence especially if you have a dog

• If cows become agitated then calmly get yourself out of danger. If you have a dog let itgo and call it to you when you are safe.

Every situation is different so please remember that you are on someone else’s land and if there are farm animals around it is a working environment. Please refer to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code for more information:https://www.nature.scot/sites/default/files/2018-05/Publication%202005%20-%20Scottish%20Outdoor%20Access%20Code.pdf

FURTHER INFORMATION

If you require any assistance or support prior to or during your trip then please contact our office on the details below:

Wilderness Scotland

Dalfaber Drive

Aviemore

PH22 1ST

E‐Mail: [email protected]

Tel: +44(0)1479 420020.

The Wilderness Scotland out-of-office hours number is +44 (0)7766 794640. Please only call this number for things that cannot wait until the office is open again

Important Contact Numbers Read More