1-Day Loch Tay Itinerary

One day at Loch Tay isn’t enough — but if it’s all you have, this itinerary ensures you see the best. We’ve designed this route to work from either direction (approaching from the east or west).

Morning: Killin & the Falls of Dochart

9:00am — Arrive in Killin and park at the Falls of Dochart car park. Spend 30–45 minutes exploring the falls and Inchbuie island. The morning light on the water is beautiful.

10:00am — Walk through the village, pick up coffee and a pastry, and stroll down to the Loch Tay shore. Take in the views.

Late Morning: A Walk

10:30am — Choose your walk based on fitness:

• Easy option: Glen Lochay river walk (1.5–2 hours, flat, beautiful)
• Moderate option: Killin to Ardeonaig lochside (3 hours)
• Challenging option: Drive to Ben Lawers NTS car park and do the nature trail (1 hour) or, for the fit, Beinn Ghlas summit (3–4 hours)

Lunch

1:00pm — Head to the Falls of Dochart Inn for a pub lunch with a view. If the weather’s good, sit on the terrace overlooking the falls. Alternatively, try The Courie Inn for something more contemporary.

Afternoon: Drive the Loch

2:30pm — Drive the A827 east along the north shore of Loch Tay. Stop at viewpoints along the way — the loch is particularly photogenic from the higher sections of road.

3:15pm — Stop at Kenmore. Explore this pretty village, visit the square, and pop into the Kenmore Hotel for afternoon tea. If time allows, visit the Scottish Crannog Centre (allow 1.5 hours).

Late Afternoon: Fortingall

4:30pm — A short detour south to Fortingall to see the ancient yew tree (possibly Europe’s oldest living thing). The village itself is charming — thatched cottages and a peaceful church.

Evening

5:30pm — Return to Killin or Kenmore for dinner. For a special meal, the Fortingall Hotel restaurant is excellent. For a more casual evening, the Falls of Dochart Inn won’t let you down.

Tips

• Start early to maximise daylight
• Check the weather and adjust the walk choice accordingly
• Fill up with petrol before arriving — fuel stations are limited
• This route works equally well in reverse (starting at Kenmore)