Introduction to Callander Walk
Welcome to our blog about a beautiful hike from Callander to Kilmahog and back via Coilhallan Wood. This scenic walk takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes Scotland offers, starting at the car park in the heart of Callander, right on the banks of the River Teith. As you go through the picturesque town, you’ll soon find yourself surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling lochs. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, this route is sure to impress. So pack your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and join us as we explore the beauty of Callander and beyond!
Callander Walk – About Callander
Callander is a charming town located in the heart of the Trossachs, an area of outstanding natural beauty in Scotland. It’s a popular tourist destination known for its stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and rich history.
The town has a rich history dating back to the Roman era when it served as a significant settlement.
Today, visitors can see the remains of the Roman fort, where you can take a hike and enjoy the stunning views.
Callander is also known for its association with the Scottish poet Robert Burns, who visited the town in 1787 and wrote the poem “The Trossachs.” In the poem, he described the Trossachs as a “wild and romantic region” and praised the area’s natural beauty.
If you’re interested in learning more about the town’s history, visit the Callander Heritage Centre, where you can see exhibits and artefacts from the area’s past.
Callander Walk Details
Route Map for Callander Walk
Callander Walk Information
Video of Callander Walk
Points of Interest on Callander Walk
Roman Camp (1)
Step back in time and explore the remains of the ancient Roman fort at Bochastle. This historic site, located just north of the dismantled railway and about 200m northeast of Bochastle farm, offers a glimpse into the Roman presence in Scotland during the 1st century AD. Excavations began in 1949, revealing a quadrate Roman fort, or military camp, with a rampart built on a turf base and a single ditch outside. The internal arrangements of the fort have yet to be discovered, but pottery and other finds indicate an Agricolan origin.
One of the most striking features of the fort is the well-preserved west rampart, which is turf-covered and reaches heights of 2.7m in some places. The road on the east side of the entrance is also visible as a low, spread mound that probably extended around the south side of the fort. The fort’s northeast corner and possibly all of the north defences have been destroyed by river erosion.
Recent resistance and magnetic surveys have revealed new information about the fort’s construction and preservation. The survey detected clear foundation traces for some of the main range of buildings and confirmed the presence of a double ditch circuit with “parrot beak” gate breaks. The fort and temporary camp ditches also intersect, which suggests that the Romans built the camp first.
Mouldring Lines (1)
This ancient site, located a short distance northeast of a fine farmhouse and offices, is the property of the Earl of Murray. The Mouldring Lines are the remains of a large bank of earth or mound that has been the subject of much speculation and intrigue.
Some historians believe that the Mouldring Lines may be the remains of a Roman fort, as the site is located in the same area as the Roman fort at Bochastle, and the earthworks resemble those of a fortification. The location is also mentioned in Scott’s famous novel, “Lady of the Lake,” adding to the mystery and allure of the site.
Despite the uncertainty of its origins, the Mouldring Lines offer visitors a glimpse into Scotland’s past, with the remains of the earthworks providing a fascinating glimpse into the country’s history. The site is also surrounded by picturesque countryside and offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful walk and take in the area’s natural beauty.
The Mouldring Lines is a mysterious ancient site located near a fine farmhouse and offices, the property of the Earl of Murray. It is believed to be the remains of a Roman fort, but the exact origins of the site are uncertain. Nevertheless, the earthworks are fascinating and surrounded by beautiful countryside. It’s a great spot for history buffs and those who love to explore the great outdoors.
Crop Markings (1)
The crop mark enclosure is located about 150 meters northwest of Bochastle farmhouse. This ancient site was discovered through aerial survey and took the form of a narrow, ditched circular enclosure about 50 meters in diameter. The enclosure is incomplete on the south and west, with no clear sign of an entrance.
This site dates back to the Roman era and is thought to have been used as a temporary camp by Roman soldiers. The internal pits and the arc of a circle about 14 meters across found in the enclosure suggest that it may have been the site of a timber house. Visitors can also explore other cropmarks found in the area, including a possible ring ditch to the south and a somewhat amorphous ring ditch to the southeast.
Coffee Bean Boulder (2)
This boulder is located in a rougher area between the access trail and the Trossachs road and is owned by the Woodland Trust. The boulder is overgrown, but the ‘coffee bean’ shaped depression in the rock is quite prominent and can’t be missed.
The depression is undoubtedly natural and is a result of the weathering of the rock over time. The prominent ridges across the centre and the left-hand edge of the depression are the edges of the old bedding planes in this low-grade metamorphosed mudstone. The depression has weathered out from among the bedding lines to give this prominent false cup mark, making the boulder a unique and exciting natural feature.
This boulder is a great spot for geology enthusiasts and nature lovers. It’s a perfect place to explore and learn about the natural formation of the area. This is also an excellent spot for a picnic or a peaceful stroll in nature.
Samson’s Stone (3)
Samson stone is located on the small Bochastle Hill, a couple of miles west of Callander, and can be easily reached by going west out of Callander on the A84 road, turning left at Kilmahog, and looking up the small hill on the right.
The stone is a glacial erratic and is not known to have any cup markings on its surface. However, the Iron Age hillfort of Dunmore is located 370 yards (338m) to the southwest of the stone, providing a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
In the local folklore, it is said that the stone was thrown here by one of the Fingalian giants in ancient times. According to the legend, the stone was initially located upon Ben Ledi, nearly 3 miles northwest. It was one of several stones being thrown in a competition to see who was the strongest of the giants. Another version of the same legend tells that the giants threw the stone from Ben Lawers 21 miles (34km) to the north.
Dunmore Fort (4)
Dunmore Fort is a must-see historical site for any history buff or outdoor enthusiast visiting the Callander area. The fort is located on a steep hill and is an excellent example of a fort that uses a semi-oval fortification to defend the accessible side. In contrast, the other side of the fort rests on the edge of a steep bank.
The fortifications of Dunmore Fort comprise four parallel circular banks with large stones embedded in them. They are believed to be stone walls that have become overgrown with turf. They vary in height from 6-10ft, and the inner area of the fort contains a filled-in well,
In 1964, a whetstone was found within the fort and presented to Stirling Museum. They also found loose vitrified material lying in the well and a modern cairn near the well and in-situ in the second rampart from the interior on the west.
Apart from the history and archaeology, the fort offers visitors a chance to enjoy the area’s natural beauty, including the view of the surrounding countryside from the top of the hill. Dunmore Fort is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into Scotland’s rich history and a chance to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Historic Milestone (5)
Are you looking for a piece of history to add to your next road trip? Look only as far as the milestone located on the A821 road near Dunmore. This milestone, which used to stand on the side of the road, marked the distance between Callander and Loch Katrine. Unfortunately, the milestone has been removed, but it is still depicted on the first edition of the OS 6-inch map, which notes that it stood 2 miles from Callander and 7.5 miles from Loch Katrine. The milestone would have been an important marker for travellers in the past, helping them navigate and plan their journey. Although the milestone is no longer standing, its image on the map serves as a reminder of the area’s rich history and the importance of transportation in the past.
Gartchonzie Bridge (6)
The Gartchonzie bridge is a stunning piece of 18th-century engineering that will take your breath away. Built in 1777 by the talented mason Peter McInnes from Crieff, this two-arch rubble bridge spans the picturesque Eas Gobhain river and is a true testament to the skills and craftsmanship of its builder.
The bridge was built as part of an improvement scheme to the forfeited estate of the Duke of Perth following the 1745 Jacobite uprising. The Commissioners of Forfeited Estates oversaw its construction. Despite the passage of time, the Gartchonzie bridge has stood the test of time and remains a well-preserved example of later 18th-century bridge architecture.
Measuring 11.6m in length on each side and standing at a width of 3.7m between parapets, Gartchonzie bridge is not just a functional piece of infrastructure but also a beautiful architectural marvel. The bridge is currently used as a road bridge and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
Callander Castle (8)
Here is the former location of Callander Castle, a formidable stronghold that once stood on the south bank of the River Teith. Although the castle is long gone, its legacy lives on in the form of the manse built on the site in 1868.
The castle’s origins are mysterious, with no apparent records of when it was first constructed. However, it is believed to have been a strong square building of significant height and was likely used as a defensive fortress in times of war. Its fortunes took a turn for the worse during the 17th century when the crown forfeited it and passed it into the hands of the Livingstone family, later Earls of Callander.
Despite the castle’s demise, visitors to the manse can still catch a glimpse of its past. A fragment of the castle’s walls can still be seen close to the manse, and a stone above the front door is inscribed with the initials “AL” and “EH” along with the date “1596”. This is a reminder of the Livingstone’s tenure and possibly a renovation done by them.
Callander Old Parish Church and Graveyard (9)
The church, now long gone, served the dual purpose of a place of worship and a school until 1773, when a new parish church was built nearby.
Despite being in ruins and removed, it is believed that the church was originally a Roman Catholic chapel. The Rev. McCorquodale determined the exact location of the church, and today, nothing remains of the church, but the history and stories surrounding it live on.
According to historical records, the Duke of Montrose played a role in the building and repair of the church and the manse, with payments of £26.8.0 recorded as his share of the cost. The church was already in existence by 1238, and it is a shame that it no longer stands today, but it serves as a reminder of the rich history of the town of Callander.
For those interested in architecture and history, the Callander, Old Parish Church is a fascinating site to explore and imagine what it must have been like in its prime. Though the church is no longer standing, its history and the stories surrounding it will remain a part of the town’s rich heritage.
Tom Na Chisaig (9)
Tom Na Chisaig is a curious and unique mound located in the town. This circular shaped mound stands tall and proud, with a level space at the top measuring 120ft in circumference. The mound is traditionally believed to have been erected in memory of St Kessaig, a revered figure in Scottish history.
Not only is Tom Na Chisaig a fascinating historical site, but it also has a rich cultural significance. In the early 19th century, an annual market called Feill-ma-Chessaig was held here, attracting locals and visitors to the area. This yearly market was an important event for the community, providing a space for trade and social interaction.
The mound appears like a motte, a fortification typically associated with medieval castles. However, it is only possible to be certain with excavation. Nevertheless, the flat-topped mound is a testament to the history and culture of the region.
The site offers a unique glimpse into the past, and the beautiful surroundings make it a perfect spot for a picnic or a stroll. So pack a lunch and head out to Tom Na Chisaig to discover this fascinating historical site.
The Meadows (9)
The Meadows in Callander are a beautiful and peaceful oasis nestled in the heart of the Scottish countryside. This area of natural beauty is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
The Meadows are located on the banks of the River Teith and are home to various wildlife, including swans, Geese, and ducks. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the river, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. The Meadows also feature a playground and a small café, making it the perfect spot for a family outing.
The Meadows are also an excellent spot for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Several walking and cycling trails meander through the area, providing stunning views of the surrounding countryside. These trails are well-maintained and suitable for all abilities, making them an excellent option for both experienced outdoor enthusiasts and beginners. Visitors can also enjoy Fly-fishing in the River Teith, which is home to various fish species, such as salmon and trout.
The Meadows are also a great place to relax and soak up the sun during the summer months. Visitors can bring a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch on the river’s grassy banks, surrounded by the area’s natural beauty. The Meadows are also the perfect spot to watch the sunset, with the sky’s warm orange and pink hues reflecting on the river.
Places to Eat and Drink near the Callander Walk
Ben Ledi Coffee Company
Costa Coffee
Susi’s Taste of the Trossachs
Mhor Bread & Store
Official Site
