Visit Callander Woods this Autumn
Callander Woods Holiday Park is perfectly located in the heart of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, making it an ideal base for exploring one of Scotland’s most scenic regions.
As autumn arrives, the landscape transforms into a rich tapestry of golds, reds, and burnt oranges, creating the perfect setting for crisp walks, scenic drives, and memorable days out.
Whether you’re looking to soak up the views along winding forest roads, discover local history and wildlife, or simply enjoy the peace and beauty of the season, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, here are our top suggestions for making the most of an autumn break in the Trossachs.
The Duke’s Pass / Trossachs Trail
Take a drive through some of the most scenic parts of the Trossachs, passing Loch Venachar, Loch Achray and the Lake of Menteith.
The Duke’s Pass was originally built by the Duke of Montrose in the 19th century to improve access to his estate. Later, it was upgraded as Victorian tourists were drawn to the area after the publication of Sir Walter Scott’s epic poem ‘The Lady of the Lake’, which celebrates the beauty of Loch Katrine.
From Callander on the A84 to Kilmahog, then follow the A821 to Aberfoyle and return to Callander, head back on the A81.
Three Lochs Forest Drive
If you want to extend your road trip you can access the Three Lochs Forest Drive from the Dukes Pass. This seven-mile forest drive takes you past three picturesque lochs – Lochan Reòidhte, Loch Drunkie and Loch Achray. Glimpse deer and red squirrels amongst the trees and – if you are lucky – spot an osprey fishing on one of the lochs. There is a lovely picnic site beside Loch Drunkie.
Sir Walter Scott Steamship – Loch Katrine
The world-famous 123-year-old Steamship Sir Walter Scott is now back in operation on Loch Katrine, following a major restoration programme. Why not take a trip on this old lady to enjoy the spectacular scenery, or if you prefer something a bit more modern, choose from the Lady of the Lake, Rob Roy III or the smaller Osprey private charter boat.
Cruises leave from both the Stronachlachar and Trossachs Piers, where you will find a range of shops and cafés. If you are feeling adventurous, why not hire a bike and take in on board for the morning sail and cycle back along the shores?
The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre
Operated by the Forestry Commission, this 5-star rated attraction stands in the Achray Forest, part of the huge Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. Enjoy panoramic views from the café and a red squirrel hide with live wildlife camera feeds. There is a choice of four scenic trails, including a gentle 30-minute stroll to a waterfall that takes in the life-sized ‘lumberjills’ statue, dedicated to the women who served in the Women’s Timber Corps during the war.
Go Ape Aberfoyle
Located in the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, just a short walk up the hill from The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre, is Go Ape, home to two of the longest zip wires in the UK. If you are brave enough, you will find yourself 45 metres up in the tree canopies, then flying through the forest, over waterfalls and streams on the 426-metre downward zipwire. There is a choice of 2 routes – one more challenging than the other.
Rob Roy’s Grave
The countryside around Callander is known as Rob Roy Country, as the famous folk hero, Rob Roy MacGregor, lived and died in the area around Loch Voil. He was buried at the picturesque Balquhidder Kirkyard alongside his wife and two sons, and his grave is marked with the words ‘MacGregor Despite Them’.
Scottish Antique Centre, Doune
Enjoy a few hours to explore the vast centre based in the beautiful location of Doune, which houses an unrivalled choice of antiques (100+ dealers) and contemporary furnishings, home accessories & ladies’ clothing. There is also a lovely cafe on-site to enjoy. Homes & Antiques Magazine recognise them as a ‘UK Top Ten Antique Centre.’
Cultybraggan Camp
Cultybraggan Camp, run by Comrie Development Trust, was formerly an infamous Second World War POW camp turned MoD training camp and is now a thriving multi-use site owned by the local community. Explore the museum with its tales of POW escapes and Nazi brutality; experience the camp living conditions and military life; sample the quality produce of local artisans; dress as a soldier, try morse code and hunt the Cultybraggan mice!
Argaty Red Kites
Argaty Red Kites is Central Scotland’s only red kite feeding station and offers visitors a choice of 4 hides, ranging from the public access hide, holding 30 people, to 1-4-person private hire hides. The daily feeding sessions are Ideal for close views of the red kite’s aerobatics.
Visit the Bracklinn Falls
One of Scotland’s most exhilarating waterfalls, Bracklinn Falls is located in the woods above Callander. This series of waterfalls is on the course of the Keltie Water, where it cascades down a dramatically deep gorge. The falls can be viewed from a new bridge, suspended above the cascade. To reach the falls, either walk from the Bracklinn Falls car park (15-20 minutes) or walk from Callander Main Street (40-45 minutes).
