Two massive days on the West Highland Way took it’s toll of our knees so we decided that rather than face another section of the lakeside “walk” we would take the road east and then down towards Glasgow
We left Inversnaid (Scottish Gaelic: Inbhir Snàthaid) and headed down an unnamed road to meet up with the B829 and then eventually the A81 down to Glasgow
The first hour of the journey was alongside Loch Arklet – a reservoir supplying water to some of Glasgow. Corrie Arklet Farm is on the shore – notable for being where Rob Roy was married. It was a lovely start to the walk with next to no traffic and some great views of the lake and the highlands we had just come from.
As we walked through Loch Ard Forest we passed alongside Loch Chon and Loch Ard – absolutely beautiful – before reaching Aberfoyle (Scottish Gaelic: Obar Phuill). Robert Roy MacGregor was born at the head of nearby Loch Katrine, and his well-known cattle stealing exploits took him all around the area surrounding Aberfoyle. Along the banks of Loch Ard were various small hamlets – all with immaculate houses and gardens. It is amazing that, when the scenery is this nice, walking seems to take no time at all.
We walked along the A81 down towards Milngavie, on the outskirts of Glasgow. It was interesting to see how in the space of a few miles the scenery could change so much. We passed the entrance to Gartmore House, a country house and estate built in the 18th century. It was requisitioned by the army in 1940 and became a barracks until 1950 when it was sold off.
Nearing our destination we passed Glengoyne Distillery. This has been in continuous operation since 1833 and has the unique distinction of producing Highland single malt whisky that is matured in the Lowlands. Finally we arrived at the Premier Inn in Milngavie and hopefully a good sleep in their much vaunted beds. Tomorrow see us head further south towards Abington.