Autumn Winter 2016 | No. 18

The

The magazine of the Friends of Loch Lomond and the

Making the National Park more accessible for walkers and cyclists

ALSO INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Luss at a Crossroads, Nature in the Park, Park News, Events and more Welcome to this Autumn edition of Voice, with features about different aspects of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and news on recent activities of the Friends and others working to make the Park a better place for people and nature. As the only independent conservation and heritage charity covering the National Park, we continue to try and make a difference through campaigning, fundraising and volunteering activities working closely with partners such the Park Authority, local communities and tourism groups. n this edition we include a special feature a great success. An attractive booklet and expressing interest in taking over the on a range of access issues including the exhibition featuring the wonders of Loch ownership and management of public ambitious five-year Mountains and the Lomond, through the writings of Tom and car parks and toilets in visitor honeypot People project that is making a positive the work of 300 schoolchildren attending the locations such as Luss, Balmaha and impact in the National Park with a number six primary schools around the loch, were Callander. of paths being improved by trainee path launched at Weirfest in June. The exhibition Pleasingly, Council has recently builders and contractors. We are pleased featuring the children’s work has been on stepped up investment in upgrading public to be supporting this project through the display for the summer months at Balmaha toilets in popular tourist spots such as Killin popular OUR park visitor giving scheme we Visitor Centre and has proved to be very and Tyndrum and hopefully the roll out of operate with 100 local tourism businesses. popular as has the booklet which provides a the Your Park camping initiative and the There is now a real momentum behind great introduction to Loch Lomond and is a revitalised Respect campaign, led by the improving access for walkers and cyclists useful educational resource for schools. National Park with the support of partners, in many parts of the National Park and it is Although the weather conditions were will help improve the situation on the encouraging to see a raft of local community variable over the summer months, the ground. But this will require effective back groups taking the lead in improving National Park has continued to be a up with adequate staffing resources across existing, and creating new, low level family popular destination for UK and overseas a large area at peak times in particular to friendly path networks with the support of holidaymakers and day visitors from supplement the already very stretched the National Park, the Friends and other different parts of . There are reports ranger and police services. partners. that despite the uncertainty created by the I hope you will enjoy reading this latest Brexit vote there has been a noticeable rise A series of paths leaflets, produced by local edition of Voice and that some of the in European and long haul visitors, no doubt groups for the Loch Lomond and Clyde Sea features will encourage you to get out and encouraged by the weak pound. However, Lochs area, have recently been funded by about to make the most of Scotland’s first the visitor infrastructure and support visitor the Friends from the OUR park visitor giving National Park over the coming months. management services in areas such as Loch scheme. The Friends also recently joined Why not try out one of the many new and Lomond have struggled to cope at busy forces with the Scottish Woodland Trust and improved paths featured in this edition times. Love Loch Lomond to invest in much needed of Voice and appreciate the stunning improvements to the muddy Whinneyhill There are also some underlying issues autumnal colours at their best? Thank you path at the southern end of Loch Lomond concerning the quality of visitor for continuing to support the work of the and, with the help of a range of partners, management which, in part, can be Friends. path projects in Glenbranter, Killin, Tyndrum, attributed to public sector cuts in frontline Lochearnside, Lochgoilhead, Balmaha and services and the unsatisfactory management All the very best. Luss are currently being progressed. arrangements for some facilities in public JAMES FRASER The Friends’ Tom Weir’s Loch Lomond ownership. Interestingly, in recent months Chair - Friends of Loch Lomond Wonderland HLF-funded initiative has been some community groups have been and The Trossachs

The Voice is the magazine of the Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, the only independent conservation charity working to protect, promote and provide projects and services for this most precious part of Scotland – The Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. To join us or to find out more about our work please visit www. lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk or use the form inside. Articles published in The Voice do not necessarily The Voice is published biannually in spring and autumn. Submissions on topics relating to Loch represent the views of The Friends of Loch Lomond Lomond and The Trossachs National Park are welcome. Please send submissions to the editor and The Trossachs. Charity No. SC015389 at the address below or email [email protected] Friends of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs The Old Station, Balloch Alexandria G83 8SS The Voice is printed on 100% recycled paper supporting Telephone: 01389 298008 Email: [email protected] the re-use of forest resources and in accordance with www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk FSC standards only using post-consumer recycled wood Cover photo – Walkers enjoying the Great Trossachs Forest. Photo courtesy of Forestry and fibre Commission Scotland. Photo courtesy of National Trust for Scotland. Some beautiful photographs of the National Park are available to purchase as framed or canvas wrap pictures Designed and printed by from our online shop at www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk The Inglewood Press Ltd, Alloa, Scotland www.inglewood-press.co.uk

2 The Voice - Autumn-Winter 2016 www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 3 ED10919_LE_TheVoice_OUTLINED.indd 1 07/09/2016 16:22 FRIENDS UPDATE • FRIENDS UPDATE • FRIENDS UPDATE • FRIENDS UPDATE • FRIENDS UPDATE • FRIENDS UPDATE • FRIENDS UPDATE • FRIENDS UPDATE • FRIENDS UPDATE • FRIENDS UPDATE • FRIENDS UPDATE • FRIEND

Lee Stetson assists Rhona Weir officially Top National Park Accolades for Making a Difference open Tom and Rhona’s Garden Money Matters... Friends AGM – At a well-attended AGM at A long-serving member, a Loch Lomond hotelier and a dedicated volunteer have all Ross Priory in May, the Friends Chairman, been recognised with awards from the Friends for their work to enrich the lives of many James Fraser, reported that the Friends bank balance was in a healthy position thousands of people who visit Scotland’s most popular National Park. largely due to the very generous £50,000 legacy left by the Friends late President Dr At the charity’s annual general meeting, Hannah Stirling. Funds were also boosted held in May, accolades were given to former as a result of securing £10,000 from HLF for Friends Chairman and Treasurer George Boyd, Niall Colquhoun, manager of The the very successful Tom Weir’s Loch Lomond Lodge on Loch Lomond and The Inn on Loch Wonderland project that was completed over Lomond, and volunteer Irene MacKenzie, all the summer months. James reported the three having made a significant contribution continuing support from members and a range to the improving the visitor experience in the Tom and Rhona’s of businesses throughout the National Park National Park over many years. had also played an important role in ensuring Mountain Garden Opening the Friends could make a real difference with Hannah Stirling Award a range of activities and projects to make the Helensburgh man George Boyd became the Tom and Rhona’s Mountain Garden Parks Service, said: “It is a pleasure to be Park a better place for people and nature. second winner of the Hannah Stirling National was officially opened earlier this year asked to be involved in today’s events, Park Award. George has been involved with and marked the completion of the which mark the completion of a remarkable Gift Aid the Friends in various executive roles, having transformation of the site in Balmaha project in honour of an outstanding man. – As a result of generous donations been a member since 1998. Two years after which is home to the popular Tom Tom was born only a few days after the from members and members being willing death of the great John Muir and there is this he became Treasurer, a role he continued Weir Statue that has now been visited to sign gift aid agreements linked to annual a clear sense that Tom’s work in Scotland memberships of the Friends it has been to fulfil even after he became Chairman of the by over 150,000 people since it was charity in 2003. After three years as Chairman Pictured (left to right) are Pictured left to right are Friends Vice-Chairman John Urquhart; Volunteer of the Year was a continuation of the legacy that Muir possible to secure almost £5,000 from Irene MacKenzie; Business Supporters of the Year Anne and Niall Colquhoun; Friends Trustee Joyce Deans and unveiled in December 2014. he remained as a Trustee and Treasurer and in left in the United States, something which HMRC in gift aid rebates. This funding is Hannah Stirling National Park Award winner George Boyd) I know was fittingly recognised with his 2007 he was appointed as Vice-President. In The new Mountain Garden was created in vital in helping to cover staff costs. A big receipt of the inaugural John Muir Lifetime early 2016 George relinquished his position honour of Scotland’s most-loved mountain thankyou to everyone who has gift aided their on the Friends’ executive committee after his Achievement Award. Business Supporter of the Year Volunteer of the Year man and his widow Rhona and is located contributions to the Friends in recent years. wife Elizabeth was diagnosed with a terminal The National Park Business Supporters of the Last, but by no means least, the Friends beside the statue of the iconic late climber, “The large turnout of people at Balmaha illness from which she sadly passed away not Year award went to Niall Colquhoun, who runs honoured the work of Irene MacKenzie, of naturalist, writer and broadcaster at scenic today shows the high regard that Tom was $5,000 US Donation – Earlier this summer the long afterwards. Encouragingly, he has agreed The Lodge on Loch Lomond Hotel in Luss and Rosneath in , for her tireless Balmaha Bay. It was officially opened held in during his long life, and that Rhona Friends received a surprise donation from a to remain as Vice-President, much to the The Inn on Loch Lomond Hotel in Inverbeg volunteering efforts. Irene has been almost by US National Park’s Service centennial is still held in now. I will certainly return to delight of the Friends Board of Trustees, who with his wife Anne. Niall has been a very strong a fixture on Make a Difference conservation celebrations ambassador and John Muir the USA with fond memories of today’s group of 20 Seattle golfers who had played a have been indebted to him for his loyal and backer of the Friends and the innovative in action days organised by the Friends in lookalike, Lee Stetson, alongside The Scots gathering and with a greater impression mini Ryder Cup tournament at Loch Lomond dedicated hard work over many years. Friends of OUR park project since its inception all areas of the National Park, having first Magazine editor, Robert Wight. of how Tom worked so hard to protect Golf Course. Since there was no overall winner in 2010, with the two venues raising nearly volunteered with the charity in 2010 at a spring and promote Scotland’s great outdoors for they decided to split the prize money among George said: “The Friends of Loch Rhona Weir, at the age of 96, was also £20,000 through voluntary visitor donations clean event in Lochgoilhead. As well as these, everyone to enjoy. Lomond and The Trossachs has been an able to join the gathering to witness the three charities including the Friends. The funds to help benefit a wide range of projects in the she has also acted as a volunteer marshal at enormous part of my life for almost 20 latest addition to the Tom Weir’s Rest site, ‘’This is very much in the spirit of the are being used to support a number of path National Park. Niall is also a founder member fundraising events such as the Caledonian years and to be recognised in this way for which has been sensitively and creatively pioneering work undertaken in America over improvement schemes around Loch Lomond of the Friends’ business supporters scheme. Challenge and the Glasgow to Balloch KiltWalk, something I have enjoyed doing is very developed by two charity organisations - the 100 years ago by the revered Scot, John which is in line with the generous American and regularly works with Loch Lomond and The Muir who rightly is credited with being the gratifying and immensely humbling.” Niall said: “The Lodge and Inn on Loch Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs golfers’ wishes. Trossachs National Park Authority during their father of the National Parks movement.” Lomond are delighted to be recognised and the Tom Weir Memorial Group - calendar of volunteering events. following an extensive fundraising campaign. Robert Wight, the editor of The Scots Friends Chairman James Fraser said: “All three by the Friends with this award and would Tom Weir’s Rest Donation Posts Success - At The garden, designed by Scottish Campaign Magazine said: “We are delighted that Tom award winners have earned their awards on like to thank everyone who has helped Irene said: “I am very humbled to collect the start of the summer the Friends installed for National Parks Chairman, Ross Anderson and Rhona are being honoured in this way merit and we are delighted for every one of to boost our efforts to raise funds for the this award because the volunteering work three donation posts at the popular Tom Weir’s them, as they have made a real difference in Friends of OUR park project. We would is simply something I enjoy doing and feel and laid out by local businessman Sandy as Tom, with the great support of Rhona, Rest site to coincide with the opening of Tom Scotland’s first National Park for visitors and not be able to make the contribution very rewarded by. To know you have been Fraser’s landscaping team, features a typical played a major role in popularising the and Rhona’s Mountain Garden. Encouragingly, residents. Our work would not be possible without the generosity of our guests at part of a team which has helped to keep range of mountain plants including juniper, great outdoors and introducing generations without the support of people like them and the two hotels, and however big or small an idyllic part of Scotland beautiful is wild thyme, fern and 1,200 heathers of to the outdoor wonders of Scotland and over a four month period visitors have left hopefully all three will continue to be involved their donations are to the scheme, it is satisfying enough, so to receive an award different varieties and colours to reflect the many of the country’s great characters as a donations totalling £1,500 in these posts. This with us for some time to come.” very much appreciated.” for being a volunteer is overwhelming.” four seasons on Scotland’s mountains. result of his monthly features in The Scots funding is invaluable as it will cover the statue A selection of stones and rocks, gathered magazine and through his other writing and annual insurance costs of £1,200 and also help close to the Highland Fault Line, which runs broadcasting work.” to cover site maintenance costs on an ongoing As part of a successful funding bid, submitted to the Scottish through Loch Lomond, and close to the site, Tom’s widow, Rhona Weir, said: “The statue basis without being a drain on the Friends Ecotourism Project Enterprise Development Fund via the Love Loch Lomond Destination are also a major feature of the garden. They is already a very special memorial to Tom but limited funds. Group, the Friends have secured £40,000 for a two-year ecotourism include white quartz from , 400 the addition of the Mountain Garden in both Funding Success project covering the National Park and the Clyde Sea Lochs area. million year old red sandstone and specially our names is a great honour and captures our This will involve working closely with the Centre for Ecotourism engraved slate with quotes written on the great love of Scottish mountains. I know Tom and Wildlife Management at Edinburgh Napier University who will wonders of Loch Lomond by Tom Weir in would have been delighted to see the result produce workbooks on operating sustainable tourism businesses and the Scots Magazine 50 years ago. The slate of all the hard work that has been put in by ecotourism in the National Park. slabs were engraved by Lara Townsend, an so many people to make this possible. These workbooks will support a series of workshops and study visits Historic Environment Scotland apprentice “I have been thrilled by how popular the for local tourism businesses to help them capitalise more on the rich stonemason at Forth Valley College in statue has been since it was unveiled, and and diverse natural heritage in the area and to encourage them to Stirling. now with the presence of the Mountain run more sustainable and eco-friendly businesses. Through the OUR Speaking at the Mountain Garden launch, Garden, it is an even better place for people park voluntary visitor giving scheme a number of ecotourism projects Lee Stetson, who was in Scotland and to come and enjoy an idyllic part of Scotland will also be supported as part of strengthening the ecotourism walked the John Muir Way as part of the which was has been such a great favourite of credentials and appeal of the area to visitors. centenary celebration of the US National Tom’s and mine.’’

4 The Voice - Autumn-Winter 2016 www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 5 NEWS IN BRIEF • NEWS IN BRIEF • NEWS IN BRIEF • NEWS IN BRIEF • NEWS IN BRIEF • NEWS IN BRIEF • NEWS IN BRIEF • NEWS IN BRIEF • NEWS IN BRIEF • NEWS IN BRIEF • NEWS IN BRIEF •

Arrochar Paths Investment Lay by on Loch Lomondside Callander Hydro Grants Callander’s Community Hydro Fund came on stream in April and by August had awarded grants totalling almost £57,000 to community projects. Any project that can demonstrate a benefit to Callander is eligible. So far, grants have included support for the 2016 Highland Games, Summerfest and the Jazz Festival, providing new flower baskets Litter and containers on Main Street, new benches in the Primary School playground and a new lawnmower Loch Lomond Nature Management for the Bowling Club, refurbishments of toilets at St Kessog’s and the Kirk Hall kitchen, and transport for RSPB visitor hub opening on the Agenda a senior citizens’ lunch club. Treasure Welcomes Visitors The fund is organised by Callander Community Development Trust, which fully owns the company that built the hydro scheme at Loch Lubnaig that Earlier this year RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond Through a partnership between RSPB Scotland, Following another busy summer the area has The following extract from a letter by the has been generating electricity for nearly two years. Campaign for officially opened its new Visitor Hub to the Scottish Natural Heritage and the National struggled to cope with visitor pressures at Friends Chairman to The Herald in response The wet weather last year meant that more power peak times. Some shortcomings in the litter to a feature with the headline -Litterbugs public with guided walks and family activities. Park Authority, vital work has been underway was generated than projected and after annual loan This follows on from the completion of a new to improve its habitats, and volunteers have management arrangements have been to the face fines in drive to keep the loch’s banks payments this meant more funds were available access road and small car park late last year been helping with the removal of invasive, non- fore again, particularly alongside the busy bonnie- helps draw attention to the current to support local community benefit projects. The MORE and now means the site is more geared up to native species, maintaining paths and fences, A82 on Loch Lomondside and at some key shortcomings: scheme is administered by Sheila Winstone, the welcome visitors. and planting hedges. visitor hotspots where several agencies are “We welcome the moves by the National Town Coordinator who can be contacted on 07852 National Parks RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond is a rich area The new Visitor Hub opened its doors in April responsible for litter collection. Park Authority and others to step up litter law 106605 or at [email protected]. The Scottish Campaign for National Park, which of wetland, woodland and farmland at the and welcomes visitors every weekend until As part of National Parks Week in July the enforcement and associated litter education as the name implies is a lobby group with the southern end of the loch that provides homes mid-October. Work is due to start shortly on National Park Authority launched a revitalised initiatives. However, in the absence of a more Lauder Memorial Improvements aim of securing more National Parks, received a for nature, such as endangered geese, unique a new path from the Visitor Hub. This will be Respect Campaign with Forestry Commission integrated and better litter management double boost recently with the appointment of plants and unusual fish. In the last few years, a small circular route taking in some of the Scotland and Police Scotland with a focus service we believe these efforts will fall short of In advance of the 100th anniversary of the death the Rt Hon Alex Fergusson as their President and rare beetles and spiders have both been woodlands and grasslands close by. Phase on litter and responsible camping so that what is required on the ground to make a real of famous entertainer Harry Lauder’s son, John, in The Scots Magazine starting a series of features recorded there, and there have also been one of the path will be completed this year, everyone coming to the National Park can and lasting difference. the First World War the Friends, with support from on the case for more National Parks. sightings of spotted crake, a migratory bird with phase two starting next autumn. enjoy the outdoors. Much was made of the “At present there are a number of agencies the Mountains and the People project team and Sir Alex has been a keen supporter of more litter issue in the national press and the Park involved in litter management and there Forestry Commission Scotland, are progressing an with a British population thought to be fewer For details of the winter events programme National Parks for a long time and during his term Authority’s new powers to issue £80 fines for are great inconsistencies in the approaches improvement scheme at the memorial site which has as an MSP and former presiding officer of the than 200. please visit www.rspb.org.uk/lochlomond or those who flout the law. currently adopted in our two National Parks stunning views of Glenbranter in Argyll Forest Park. Scottish Parliament. Now that he has stepped email [email protected] In the news release issued by the Park in terms of litter bin provision, frequency of With the consent of the local landowner, John down from these roles he is free to devote more Montgomery, work on replacing the timber step path Authority the new Environment Secretary, emptying and efforts generally to help visitors time to the cause, and particularly in his native to the memorial with a more robust stone path will Roseanna Cunninghame said: “It is easy to do dispose of litter in responsible ways. Dumfries and Galloway where there is now some get underway this Autumn. Trainees on the Mountains Lifesavers in the Park the right thing and either put your litter in the “For example, along the busy A82 trunk road momentum building for the creation of Scotland’s and the People project (see pages 18-19) will carry out bin or take it home with you if you are out and on Loch Lomondside, from Duck Bay north, third National Park. He has set out the case The roll out of public access defibrillators led by Trossachs Search and the work over a two-week period and this will include clearly for more National Parks in the September Rescue in partnership Helensburgh and District CPR and Garelochhead about enjoying the National Park. There really there are no litter bins in any of the lay-bys replacing the railings beside the path with new timber edition of The Scots Magazine. and Rosneath First Responders and other local groups such as the Friends is no excuse for littering.” and there are regular recurring litter problems. railings supplied by Forestry Commission Scotland. Robert Wight, Editor of The Scots Magazine in of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs been a resounding success. There are Oh that it was so easy to find a litter bin This contrasts markedly with the A9 as it winds The Friends are funding the quarry stone required for his foreward to the September edition writes: now over 80 public access defibrillators in and around the National Park alongside the busy A82 on Loch Lomondside. its way through the Cairngorms National Park the path upgrade. “In the United States, people are celebrating the and this is likely to grow to 100 in the next year as they prove their worth. This has been a bone of contention for many where there are large bins in every lay-by and Plans are also being progressed for better advance centenary of their National Parks. years with the Friends’ lobbying efforts being minimal litter problems as a consequence. signing and site interpretation for what is a hidden So far five lives have been saved through the use of eight of the defibrillators and this represents a “Of course it’s a Scot, renowned 19th century to no avail so far in securing the same provision “There are also inefficiencies in litter collection gem in that is often overlooked by visitors. 63% rate which is well ahead of the Scottish Ambulance Service 30% resuscitation rate. conservationist John Muir, who’s regarded as the as enjoyed in the Cairngorms National Park with, in some instances, two bodies being father of the National Park movement. Stuart Ballantyne of Trossachs Search and Rescue said: “The availability of defibrillators in so many where every lay-by along the A9 has a large responsible for emptying different litter bins in “It’s strange that in a country as famed for its locations throughout the National Park has meant that bystanders have been able to perform CPR litter bin and minimal litter problems as a the same car park and viewpoint and at different beauty, we’ve been slow to embrace Muir’s legacy, using these easily accessible kits to save lives.” Makeover for result. frequencies which can result in some bins being among the last to designate any National Parks. In one of the more recent incidents at Loch Lomond Arms Hotel Even then creating just two in the last 15 years.” emptied regularly while nearby ones are left in Luss, staff and bystanders were able to leap into action and Callbox at The Scottish Campaign for National Parks Overflowing litter bin overflowing. This makes little sense to us and use one of the defibrillators to save the life of a 71-year old have produced a strategy document entitled at Balmaha we would like to see anomalies like this resolved Balquhidder “Unfinished Business” and a series of interesting Helenburgh woman, Martha Isobel McNeil (left) who collapsed to improve the little management service. factual topic papers on different aspects of at a ceilidh after the Luss Highland Games. This defibrillator was “At busy visitor hotspots efforts to encourage Next time you’re passing the benefits of National Parks. Copies of these part funded by the Friends OUR park visitor giving scheme which visitors to take litter home have consistently the Village Hall in publications can be viewed on www.scnp.org.uk. several local businesses in Luss participate in. not worked and in our view what is required Balquhidder, take a closer is adequate litter bin provision and regular look at the telephone box! emptying as it has been proven that when bins It has been given a complete overhaul with Collaborating for Success are provided most visitors will act responsibly a lovely new red paint job-but it’s also been Local industry-led destination organisation, Authority and The Friends of Loch Lomond & and use them.” given a new lease of life. Inside you’ll find Love Loch Lomond, has been successful in The Trossachs. shelves containing a small but eclectic selection Unfinished The Friends are stepping up their efforts to securing £300,000 from the new Scottish One of the main aims of the new initiative is of books, which anyone is welcome to peruse encourage the responsible public bodies to Business Enterprise Tourism Destination Development to develop and improve the quality of the and make an ‘exchange’. address these anomalies in litter management A National Parks Strategy for Scotland Fund for a two-year project to capitalise on the tourism offering by capitalising more on the And there is a donation box at the hall door if Scottish Campaign for National Parks Association for the Protection of Rural Scotland tourism potential of the National Park and the nature, wildlife and marine tourism potential in time for the 2017 main tourist season. you feel moved to make a donation. Clyde Sea Lochs. of the area. Much of this will be achieved Encouragingly, the Park Authority is also Photo and article kindly supplied by Jill Collaborating for Success is a project which through collaboration and networking amongst pushing for a more integrated service through will be managed by Love Loch Lomond agencies and businesses. This will also be Johnston, the Editor of ‘The Villagers’ Destination Organisation in partnership with backed up by a more comprehensive visitor the next draft Park Partnership Plan. community newspaper Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park research programme.

6 The Voice - Autumn-Winter 2016 www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 7 The historic conservation village of Luss on the banks of Loch without delay and linked to a more workable set of car parking and traffic Lomond is one of the most popular tourist destinations in management proposals that enjoys the support of the local community Development the National Park and has just had one of its busiest summer (residents and businesses). These ever following record levels of investment by Luss Estates and alternative proposals are strongly other local tourism businesses in recent years. However, the supported by the Friends, Luss Estates village has struggled to cope with the large influx in visitors and others locally. Digest and there is an urgent need for a well-coordinated visitor Public toilet management is also a Some of the most recent developments in the management action plan involving public agencies such as the major current issue in the village. village include: National Park Authority and Argyll and Bute Council working Several years ago the Park Authority closely with local community and business groups to improve invested over £100,000 in much the situation. If there is no co-ordinated action then Luss is needed new toilets in the village and Village Housing in danger of losing its appeal to visitors and no longer being a introduced a turnstile arrangement with toilet users having to pay 30p. The A site close to the village school has recently jewel in Loch Lomond’s tourist crown. charging policy was generally supported as it was recognised that visitors been gifted by Luss Estates to Link Housing Here we explore some of the recent developments and the wouldn’t mind paying if the monies raised were used to invest in staff to Association for building five affordable houses. major visitor management challenges facing Luss which is maintain the toilet cleanliness to a high standard. Unfortunately the turnstile In addition to donating the land Luss Estates has widely recognised as one of Scotland’s top visitor destinations Luss arrangement has led to large queues at peak times as visitors scramble for also very generously agreed to provide financial with almost 1 million visitors each year. at a Crossroads change with delays getting through the turnstile. The Park Authority also cut support to bridge the gap between available back the hours of staff cover which has led to problems of cleanliness and lots grant funding and the actual build costs to help ensure the development happens soon to recently re-opened by the enterprising The Council recently proposed of complaints to neighbouring businesses. The newly formed Luss Business Setting the Scene accommodate local families. Fraser family who run the award introducing coach parking charges Association, the Friends and the Community Council are all lobbying for an The threat of Luss Primary School winning Oak Tree Inn and St Mocha in the main car park and this quickly improvement in the toilet management arrangements as they are currently closure several years ago was the Luss Filling Station Coffee Shop in Balmaha on the other led to the formation of a business deficient and not fit for purpose in such a busy and high profile location in the trigger for Sir Malcolm Colquhoun side of the loch. action group to lobby successfully National Park. This unmanned 24 hour filling station was of Luss Estates to commission a against the introduction of charges. The Community Development Trust are at opened in July by Luss Estates and has been masterplan to revitalise the village of developed on the old filling station site in the With an estimated 200,000 coach the early stages of exploring the possibility Luss and the surrounding area. With car park in Luss. The old filling station had Visitor Management passengers a year and the volatility of taking on the ownership/lease of the the strong leadership of Sir Malcolm ceased operation over twenty years ago. Challenges of the coach market local businesses, main car park with a view to the car supported by his Chief Executive, As visitor numbers have steadily understandably, were concerned parking income being used to strengthen Simon Miller and other staff, they Luss Coach House grown to almost 1 million annually that the imposition of charges would visitor management in the village. It have made a major contribution to The popular Coach House the compact historic planned village simply lead to coaches by-passing Luss has been suggested some of the funds strengthening the appeal of the village Coffee Shop, which is owned (population 120 residents) has and moving on to other destinations generated could employ a village officer to with an investment of over £8 million and managed by former struggled to cope and is now facing a where coach parking is free. This of help address issues such as more regular in a number of projects including the course would have a serious impact litter collections and to provide information Friends Chair, Rowena transformation of Loch Lomond Arms number of major visitor management on business trading conditions in to visitors. Ferguson, has recently Hotel, opening of quality gift shops, a challenges that urgently need to be the village and, fortunately, Argyll been extended and given a seafood restaurant and smokehouse addressed. and Bute Council accepted these The Way Forward makeover with the addition as well as re-instating the village Most of the visitors arrive by car or of an attractive covered glass arguments. Following a recent walkabout in the village and discussions with local petrol station. A series of civic pride coach and often at peak times such courtyard and a bothy area. initiatives have also been supported as weekends and the main holiday There are currently controversial businesses and community representatives the Friends Chairman, James The well- established coffee shop is famous for including installing a network of periods. The growth in visitor numbers plans to introduce street parking Fraser said: “It is great to see so many businesses doing so well in the village and the recent substantial investment in new and upgraded its home-made soups and scones and is a firm information boards and producing a has often led to gridlock in the village charges and no parking areas but this businesses is impressive, as is the ongoing effort by local residents to favourite with regular visitors to Luss as is the new guidebook to tell the story of the with the main car park full and the is considered to be seriously flawed maintain such attractive floral displays. However, the village is facing quirky gift shop in the foyer area. narrow village street struggling to by a number of local businesses, the historic village. A best kept garden serious challenges coping with the growing influx of visitors at a time public Community Council, Luss Estates and competition has been introduced and cope due to indiscriminate car parking agencies are faced with cutbacks in funding which is sadly increasingly Luss Pier Shop plans for a new clan museum are being and cars circulating in conflict with the Friends. The plans fail to address evident on the ground with a dilution in investment maintaining the basic Stuart and David Fraser from the St Mocha progressed. Some low cost housing is large flows of pedestrians. The main the fundamental issue of increasing village visitor infrastructure.” Coffee Shop in Balmaha secured the lease of also planned on land donated by Luss public toilets have also struggled to car parking capacity on the edge He added: “It is clear if Luss is going to maintain its popularity as one of the Luss Pier Shop and they have tastefully Estates to help provide homes for cope and this has been exacerbated of the village and creating a more Scotland’s top visitor destinations in a fiercely competitive market then renovated the interior of the shop which re- people working in the village. by the Park Authority’s decision to pedestrian friendly area in the heart of efforts to improve visitor management issues need to be given a higher opened in June. Visitors can buy cruise and Alongside this a number of other local reduce the period of staffing cover the village with resident parking only. priority and they require to be addressed on a more comprehensive and consistent basis by public agencies working closely with local community waterbus tickets for all services leaving Luss Pier, businesses, such as the Lodge on Loch over the main tourist season as part There are also serious doubts that the and business interests. There are a number of emerging destinations that enjoy Scottish roasted coffee and homemade ice Lomond Hotel and the Coach House, of budget cuts. There are also major package of parking restrictions and are working hard to provide a quality visitor experience in the central belt creams, and make use of the reopened toilets. have invested in upgrading and challenges staying on top of other meter charging would be adequately and elsewhere and there is a great danger that inaction in addressing visitor basic issues such as the proliferation patrolled to improve the situation. expansion schemes. Encouragingly, management issues in Luss could lead to an erosion in its appeal to visitors.” Clan Shop Luss has grown more popular as a loch of signs and A-boards, litter clearance Luss Estates has generously offered Luss Estates has recently cruising destination and departure and street sweeping to maintain the to build a new car park on the edge transformed Shore Cottage into point with three cruise companies now overall quality of the streetscape and of the village at their expense and The Clan Shop. The village’s offering a range of cruise options from ambience of the village. this is identified as an opportunity oldest cottage underwent an the pier while nearby a wide variety Argyll and Bute Council has been in the latest National Park Local internal refurbishment with of watersports opportunities are now grappling with traffic management Development Plan. This offer clan memorabilia and sells available. The Pier Shop has also been issues for a number of years. should be taken up by the Council traditional Scottish handicrafts.

8 The Voice - Autumn-Winter 2016 www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 9 Local historian and literary expert Louis Stott takes us on the second of a news series of tours of waterfalls in the National Park. Louis Stott was born in Brighton in 1934 and now lives in Aberfoyle. He is the author of a number of books on Scottish history and literature, including Smollett’s Scotland, two volumes on Robert Louis Stevenson, The Enchantment of the Trossachs, Literary Loch The Falls of Cowal and Argyll Forest Park Lomond and The Waterfalls of Scotland.

Much of Cowal and all of the Argyll Arrochar and Inveraray. It is Somewhat disconcertingly the Samuel Rogers (1763-1855), splendidly beside the road. Where Opposite the entrance to the Forest Park are in the National Park. situated under Beinnan Lochain, on Glenbranter forest car park is the poet, visited Glenfinart, the the road climbs steeply the river younger Botanic Garden at Its waterfalls are not spectacular, the rather more unfashionable side on the site of the late Sir Harry country residence near Ardentinny flows through a considerable Benmore is Puck’s Glen. There are but many of them have both charm of the pass. The waterfall which Lauder’s old house. The rascally of George Murray, 5th Earl of gorge. There is no complete view a number of walks in the forest and and distinctiveness, enhancing a gives its name to the place is at entertainer haunts the district at Dunmore (1762-1836) twice. In of the Falls of Glen Massan, which a variety of ways of reaching the visit to this rugged peninsula. For the foot of Loch Restil and is best the head of Loch Eck. From the Written in the Highlands of Scotland consist of a series of steps. The glen, the most usual way being the most visitors Cowal is likely to be seen on the ascent of the pass from car park the Lauder Walk [yellow Sep 12th, he wrote a poem [1812], upper river is a gentle stream. It path from the car park opposite entered from Arrochar by the A83. Butterbridge. markers] leads through the forest reminiscent of Wordsworth, in falls three metres into a fine pool the entrance to the botanic garden. At first the road crosses the head From the Rest an appealing side- to the gorge of the Allt Robuic, which he refers to Fingal’s Falls, and then tumbles into a sequence This path passes the ruins of Puck’s of Loch Long, just beyond which a road descends to Lochgoilhead. Robert’s Burn. The walk is circular near the head of the glen: of potholes, which illustrate the House, a Victorian Folly, before singular mountain burn tumbles in The Donich Falls constitute a and marker posts guide you way in which such falls are formed. dropping steeply into the rocky a series of falls from the Cobbler favourite excursion from the village. unmistakably to the Glenbranter Oft shall my weary mind recall The water is crystal clear in the chasm. There are twelve little falls to the road at the lochside. These They are situated on the Cowal Way Falls well-set in woodland. A Amid the hum and stir of men, summertime and every detail of in this glen, which shelters a wide are the Falls of Allt a’ Bhalachain, a short distance from Lochgoilhead, diversion from the Cowal Way also Thy beechen grove and waterfall the river bed is visible. In places variety of ferns and mosses in a the burn of the young man. Beside and are called Easan Dubh, the takes in the falls. Glenbranter was the sides of two potholes have damp environment. the burn the path up the hill climbs black falls, on the map. acquired as an arboretum by the Although Rogers states that the collapsed; elsewhere there are steeply until it reaches the corrie Opposite Lochgoilhead there are Royal Botanic Gardens in 1921, falls were “near the head of the natural arches. The brilliant water beneath the fantastic rock summits attractive mountain falls situated and there are some fine specimen glen” they are almost certainly then falls five metres down a further of The Cobbler (Ben Arthur). Here on the steep descent between trees to be seen on this walk. those situated opposite the staircase. The Falls of Glen Massan there are fine waterfalls which, Curra Lochan and Lettermay Burn Every variety of rhododendron was entrance to Glenfinart House. Not are quite the most picturesque unlike those lower down, are on the Cowal Way. Sruth Ban, the planted because it was considered far away is Fingal’s Well. river falls in the Clyde basin. It is an unobscured by the spruce trees of white spout, falls 120 metres in an that the conditions resembled North of Dunoon is the most idyllic place. Above these falls, in the Ardgarten Forest. Further on extended series of cascades. the Himalayas, but as is the case attractive glen in Cowal, Glen the corrie where the river rises, is is Easan Dubh. Bealach an Easain For Strachur follow Hell’s Glen elsewhere, the rhododenrons Massan. The glen begins among Eas an Laoigh. Duibh, the pass of the place of the from Lochgoilhead. A local fall, are now thought to be rather a the great trees black waterfalls, is the older name another Eas Dubh, provides a short nuisance. The Younger Botanic of Benmore of the defile universally known as excursion for visitors to Strachur. Gardens became more important and the clear the ‘Rest and be Thankful’ between Nearby is a prominent hill-fort, An than Glenbranter after that garden waters of the Dun. was gifted to the nation in 1925. river tumble

Photo credits and captions...

10 The Voice - Autumn-Winter 2016 www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 11 12 The Voice - Autumn-Winter 2016 www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 13 across some three thousand-mile of land and The Park is an sea. You might say this is a challenging start to their young lives! ever-changing Some of our animals such as hedgehogs and bats face winter in a totally different way. They use late summer and early autumn kaleidoscope of to feast on as much food as possible. Hedgehogs, in particular, must acquire lots mood and colour of body fat to sustain them through the winter months. Then, as nights draw in they find a nice snug hibernaculum and simply the sky, some might think, aimlessly. However probably the most colourful of all our native but constant go to sleep until spring arrives, their entire these are birds with excellent eyesight and birds. Indeed, in some parts of the country metabolism slowing down to the point of their ‘aimless’ drifting is actually a means to they are known as ‘seven coloured linnets’! merely ticking over. Contrary to some stories, is that ever spotting something to eat! In recent years, Outstanding are their bright red faces and squirrels do not hibernate. They notoriously increasing numbers of red kites, readily the golden flashes on their wings. Their close collect vast hoards of food – mainly nuts and changing panoply identified from their long, forked tails have cousins, chaffinches also stand out with their beech-mast – which they stash carefully away added their rather more athletic presence to pink breasts, blue grey topknots and their for those rainy, or perhaps snowy days of the Park’s skies. willingness to live cheek by jowl with us. of wildlife forthcoming winter. Foxes too take their toll of both small And, there is music too almost exclusively One woodland dwelling bird follows a similar mammals and ground hugging birds although supplied by robin redbreast – always ready procedure by collecting acorns and burying it may come as a surprise to know that foxes to challenge fellow robins for winter territory them in vast quantities. The jay, a member of also consume large numbers of worms. More and blurting out those cheerful, bell-like the crow clan, is one of our more colourful arboreal in habit increasing numbers of pine but essentially sweet phrases of music. And birds, its largely pink body plumage offset marten are now present in most parts of the there’s colour too of course, in those flaming by a startlingly bright blue flash on each Park. Indeed, their increasing presence has red breasts. wing and its head strikingly black and white. seen a reduction of the alien grey squirrel. And whilst many of our summer songsters Being of a nervous disposition, jays are Happily the vacuum has been filled in many leave us and spend their winters in Africa, usually seen flying away from approaching areas, by native red squirrels of which there is there are also immigrants arriving from humans, revealing a prominent white flash just a growing population. the top of the world. From Greenland, above the tail. Another creature sometimes Nature of the Park But as all creatures great and small prepare Scandinavia, Iceland, Northern Russia – all regarded as one that hibernates, is the for and anticipate the advance of winter, Arctic or near Arctic regions – come thousands badger. However badgers do not hibernate there is one final act of creation to fulfil. Those either, although they will remain underground of geese, mainly barnacles, pinkfeet, Monarchs of the Glens, our red deer, wander HE PASSAGE of the year Winter is of course, a testing time for wildlife. in their cosy setts for days if the weather is and Greenland white fronts. And sailing our hills and mountains during the summer But this challenge provokes a range of particularly inclement. Like hedgehogs they magnificently across our autumn and winter is most clearly defined months but as winter advances, they different responses from our animals and eat feverishly in the autumn so that skies, also come whooper swans. During the by colour change. If the tend to come to lower ground. birds. Some meet that challenge by departing their body fat will sustain them winter months these high flying swans can be T But before they do, they must seen in various locations throughout the Park. onset of spring brings fresh for warmer climes. Some left many weeks ago. during those bad spells. go through the ritual of greenery to the landscape of the Cuckoos can be regarded as the exceptions Most of incoming geese are to be seen in the the rut. October is the more lowland southern parts of the Park with Park, as summer begins to ebb, that prove the rule for, unlike any of their Sharp Eyes avian cousins, they do not appear to have month during which stag the Greenland white fronted geese settling on its lusher greenery gives way to challenges stag; when or around Loch Lomond. And adding to the concern about the welfare of their off-spring, All of the year’s young the glens echo to the an insidious blush of warmer leaving their future entirely in the hands of birds and animals find clamour of geese, are the fast flying flocks of sonorous roaring and colours. Bell heather begins to doting foster parents and departing these their first winter very Scandinavian thrushes, the grey headed and the clashing of mighty shores as early as July. The sojourn of swifts challenging. Survival is rumped fieldfares and the smaller redwings. purple the hillsides in August antlers as they challenge here is also surprisingly short. They arrive in the name of the game There are many other winter migrants from and then later comes the more each other for the right to May and are gone again by mid-August. and there are many the far north, among them woodcock, mate with as many hinds as common ling; yet also to be seen hazards to face, not just goldcrests and short-eared owls. possible. It is a time of great are the subtle hues of blue in the weather but the very They demonstrate that the Park is always First-time Migrants drama of raging passion when task of finding sufficient food is alive with an ever-changing tapestry of the shape of delicate Scottish the master stags are indeed at war in its self, a question to which they must wildlife throughout the seasons. And often bluebells, better known by some Others linger a mite longer. Swallows begin with one another. I doubt whether in nature Keith Graham writes constantly find the answer. And of course, surprisingly early in the New Year, evidence to gather in September in preparation for there is anything quite as spectacular or as harebells. Soon however, as there are predators to avoid. All small birds that the cycle of life is stirring again comes their enormous six thousand-mile migration to theatrical. The stags do not eat during these about the changing the hours of daylight perceptibly are threatened by sparrowhawks and now in as hints of new growth begin to emerge. South Africa but martins tend to dwell a little challenging days and they make themselves many parts of the Park, goshawks too, whilst Before the end of March the first ospreys can shorten, approaching autumn longer before departing sometimes as late as look even more threatening by plastering colours of the seasons owls, including the ghostly barn owl, the be seen coursing over our lochs once more begins to make its influence October. They really do fulfil their breeding themselves in mud and peat and adorning ambitions often rearing three broods during more familiar tawny and the secretive long- after spending their winter in West Africa. properly felt. Yellows, golds, their antlers with strands of vegetation. They and how the rich eared owl, prey heavily on small mammals. Early bird song is provided by chanting great their summer time in these northern latitudes. certainly look awesome. browns and reds embellish The ospreys, that have fished our lochs the The year’s crop of hares, of both the brown tits, tuneful blackbirds and thrushes and of variety of wildlife deciduous woodland and copper summer long, are also quite early to depart, and mountain varieties, is the target of our Red Flaming Breasts course the ever-musical robins. They breathe coloured brackens further most of them being gone by early September. magnificent golden eagles, albeit that the new, exciting life into an expectant Park. in the National Park What an adventure this must be for those first- mountain hares increase their chances of As winter finally settles in, the landscape in Slowly spring begins to nudge winter aside transform hillsides. It is almost time migrants? Whilst swallows and martins evading the sharp eyes of our eagles by some ways may look startlingly black and and the annual movement of migrating birds deals with the as if our amazingly varied travel in family groups which are loosely a part adopting a white coat during the winter white especially following snowfalls but there is renewed as the winter visitors begin once landscape is going through a of larger congregations, young ospreys have months as a means of obfuscation. One of is plenty of colour to discover. Apart from more to look north and the first travellers transition from summer metamorphosis. Gradually, the to find their own way to West Africa where the commonest birds of prey in the Park is the woodland jays already mentioned, there from Africa arrive. Seasons come and go and they winter. Their parents, having lavished the buzzard, all too often mistaken for an are the little flocks of goldfinches to admire over the course of each year, the Park is an colours become ever stronger, to autumn and winter. plenty of TLC upon them during the first eagle. Yet if it is perched on a telegraph as they flit between the banks of thistles ever-changing kaleidoscope of mood and in this final last fling before the three months of their lives, are suddenly gone pole for instance, it is definitely not an eagle! and rosebay feeding enthusiastically on the colour but constant is that ever changing onset of winter. leaving their progeny to find their own way Buzzards may often be seen drifting about seeds. Goudspinks, as they are known, are panoply of wildlife.

14 The Voice - Autumn-Winter 2016 www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 15 In Brief… Tarbet Following representation from the Friends and Helensburgh and District Access Trust-the promoters of the Three Lochs Way Great Trail- Forestry Commission Scotland has agreed to temporarily re-open the Tarbet Loop and a stretch of the Three Lochs Way near Tarbet Railway Station. These popular paths have been closed in Paths Around the Park the Tarbet area for some time to enable forestry operations to take place and they were due to There is currently a real momentum behind improving access for walkers and cyclists in many parts of remain closed until 2018. Engineers are due to the National Park and it is encouraging to see how many initiatives are being taken to create new and complete a new forest road shortly and there will improved low level family friendly path networks by local groups with the support of the National Park, likely be a 6-month gap before tree extraction the Friends and other partners. Here we provide a brief update on some of these initiatives. works get underway. Eventually the new road should make a big improvement to the access New Gruffalo Trail to Cruach Tairbeirt, a minor summit which has Walkers in Tyndrum can now explore a scenic and artistic trek in the village with the launch of the new and superb views owing to its position at the head of imaginative Gruffalo Trail developed by the Strathfillan Community Development Trust. Along the new trail Loch Long between the and Loch there are five animal sculptures - a mouse, a fox, a snake, an owl and, of course, the gruffalo. Lomond. The trail takes walkers on a short, but interesting journey through the Tyndrum woodlands shelterbelt (opposite the Highland Heritage Highlandman’s Road, Hotel). There is also a forest classroom at the beginning of the trail Glen Fruin which is part of an effort to establish a community hub in the area. A lot of the issues with this historic, but An open day at the trail took place during the summer and was very problematic, path have been resolved recently popular. due to assistance from Argyll and Bute Meanwhile, work on the first section of the Crianlarich to Tyndrum Council Roads Dept, Argyll the Isles Coast cycle path is due to be completed later this year. This first stretch will be from Tyndrum to Kirkton Farm and will run through Tyndrum and Countryside Trust (ACT) and the volunteer Overflowing litter bin efforts of the Helensburgh and District Access at Balmaha Community Woodland. This is being progressed by the National Park’s Countryside Trust. Trust (HADAT) who manage the popular Three Lochs Way long distance route from Balloch to Whinney Hill Woodland Path Upgrade Inveruglas. It has taken years to fix this route and it is now possible to walk from Helensburgh The Friends joined forces with Love Loch Lomond and the Woodland Trust to invest more than £30,000 in the and Rhu to Glen Fruin with dry feet. much needed and long awaited improvement to the Whinney Hill woodland path north of Balloch Country Park and this has now been completed. St Fillans to The Woodland Trust, the charity which manages the Whinney Hill Wood on a long term lease, has been Lochearnhead Cycleway trying for several years now to make improvements to the unmade woodland trod whose condition was deteriorating badly, being widened more and more by walkers trying to avoid wet sections. Good progress is being made with this important Friends Vice chairman, John Urquhart, who has been keeping an eye cycleway route on the former disused railway on the situation, said, “This problem was becoming more and more line. Work on the £540,000 stretch from St urgent as the woodland environment was being seriously compromised Fillans west to Tynreoch has been completed by the ever widening quagmire. The Friends gave money for this a and a further £240,000 has been secured by the couple of years ago, but unfortunately, it seems that planning issues had Park Authority for the next phase which will link been holding up progress unnecessarily. The Woodland Trust is to be St Fillans eastwards to Glentarken Woods. congratulated on its tenacity in seeing this project through to completion because the new path represents a major step forward for countryside Drymen to Balmaha access in the National Park, which is surprisingly poor in the Balloch area, Following the completion of a £500,000 despite Balloch’s position as a principal gateway to the Park.” package of improvements to the cycleway and path network between Drymen and Milton of Buchanan last year led by the Drymen Community New Luss Quarries Path Plans Progress Development Trust, with support from the Park The Friends have stepped in to facilitate a new getting this development underway as we were Authority and a variety of funders, further addition to the path network around the beautiful at risk of losing the funding because we couldn’t funding has been secured from Sustrans for village of Luss which welcomes 750,000 visitors identify a suitable public body willing to shoulder improvements between Milton of Buchanan and annually. Keen to improve access around the this particular aspect of the scheme.” Balmaha. The Friends also covered the printing village, Luss Estates applied last year for funding Friends Chairman, James Fraser added: “This is costs of a new paths booklet from the OUR park under the European Community backed Scottish absolutely the kind of development we want to visitor giving scheme and copies are available in With Sweeney’s four star tours on Loch Lomond you can enjoy Rural Development Programme, but the decision see taking place and we are especially pleased the local outlets such as the Drymen Library. the Loch in all its seasonal beauty in style and comfort, to go ahead had been held up owing to difficulties funding secured will also cover interpretation about whatever the occasion or time of year. in recruiting a public body to enter into the path the Luss slate quarries – something which delivers Funding Bids Whether it’s a relaxing cruise you’re after, a ferry service, agreement necessary to provide guarantees on our desire to see the stories of the park’s people covering future management and maintenance. At told more effectively.” In collaboration with the landowners, the Park a private charter or a fun night out with a difference, the eleventh hour the Friends offered to take on Branching off the existing and very popular Authority has submitted a bid to the Scottish Sweeney’s Cruises caters for all. the legal burden to avoid £47,000 worth of funding riverside trail, the new path will thread a scenic Government’s Improving Public Access Fund Call us on 01389 752376 being lost for the project. route around the old slate quarries which dot the for improvements to the Rob Roy Way in the Luss Estates Rural Business Manager, Iain Wilkinson slopes behind the village. Work is expected to start Menteith Hills and jointly with the Lochgoilhead or email: [email protected] said: “The Friends’ offer has been crucial for us early in 2017. Community Development Trust for a new River www.sweeneyscruises.com Goil path and bridge.

16 The Voice - Autumn-Winter 2016 www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 17 A £6 million initiative, spanning a five-year period, to restore mountain paths and upland habitats in Scotland’s two National Parks is underway and here Project Manager Tom Wallace explains the background to the project and what progress is being The Mountains made in the area covered by Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. If you have visited Ben A’an, Ben Lomond or the Cobbler over recent months you may have encountered small teams of mountain weathered men and women working hard to repair paths on these The People popular mountains. This work is all part of The Mountains and The People, an ambitious partnership project developed and led by the Cairngorms Outdoor Access Trust (COAT). &

Stepping up for Scotland’s National Parks Caption

The project, which started in June 2015 Lomond and The Trossachs National Park northern Cairngorms, the Cairngorms schools such as McLaren and Balfron High, and will continue until summer 2020, area alone, as well as a wide range of Outdoor Access Trust identified that who have already been out to complete focuses on the conservation of the information, events and opportunities for investing only in the physical repairs to the some practical tasks on the hills with us, vulnerable mountain landscapes of both of the people of Scotland and beyond to get maintains would not solve the problem and we will be developing real life case studies Scotland’s National Parks - Loch Lomond involved and play our part. All project that winning the hearts and minds of those for use in subjects such as geography & the Trossachs and Cairngorms. Funding activities focus around our messages of visiting or yet to visit the hills must also be where the conflict between land use and for the project has been secured by COAT RESPECT for the mountains, RESKILLING achieved for the project to be a success. recreation in National Parks is already from the Heritage Lottery Fund who are for conservation and REPAIRING damage Therefore, a dedicated project team, based recognised as a significant concern. contributing over £3.2million which is to our most iconic mountains. in Balloch, have been recruited who will We will then deliver a range of training being matched in cash and in kind by be working with schools, communities, opportunities for teachers and support staff project partners – both National Park Respect the mountains visitors and the wider public to highlight to become more confident in using the Authorities, Scottish Natural Heritage, the unique nature of our mountains and to mountains as part of their classroom. The Mountains and the People project was Forestry Commission Scotland and COAT encourage those who visit to respect them Our Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQ) developed in response to a recognition themselves. and be aware of the impact they may have. training will be undertaken at our new that the fragile upland habitats in our Raising funding contributions from Reskilling for the future training centre in Balloch. The first intake in April 2017. Anyone interested in taking capital works are managed by the project’s other sources is also important and I am National Parks were at risk due to a lack of Along with raising awareness of the of 8 trainees are now nearing the end of part should contact the team on training@ Technical Projects Team, with Projects delighted that the Friends of Loch Lomond ongoing investment in infrastructure and impacts people have on the environment their 6 month paid training opportunity with themountainsandthepeople.org.uk. Officer Gordon Paxton White overseeing all and The Trossachs has recently confirmed a continued increase in the popularity of when visiting, the project will equip us and have already been involved in path day to day activities. an annual contribution of £5,000 from their our Parks and their mountains as a place members of the public to play their part in works on Craigmore, above Aberfoyle, and Repairing the damage The project will also be delivering real to retreat to from the city, to escape the successful OUR park visitor giving scheme improving the landscapes for generations on Luss Estates where they also learned the A large proportion of the project budget impacts on the hills as well as enriching hustle and bustle of daily life. These factors that involves 100 local businesses raising to come. This will be achieved through craft of dry stone walling. In addition to this will be invested in repairing upland paths people’s lives through a wide range of funds for conservation activities. combined resulted in the physical scarring the development of educational resources, they have carried out some more traditional and their surrounding habitats across conservation volunteering opportunities. The project includes a significant capital of hillsides across most of the mountains in training of teachers and the delivery of 36 conservation tasks with the RSPB as well as the two National Parks. Within the Loch With both mid-week and weekend practical investment in physical conservation both Parks and a situation which was only SVQ trainee placements in Environmental restoring upland peatbogs on Ben Lomond. Lomond & the Trossachs area our work path maintenance days available every activities, including the upgrade of over getting worse. Conservation. The final stage of their course will be to is spread throughout the park including month and the opportunity for members 84,000m of upland paths within the Loch Through their work within central and Working with Education Scotland and complete complex path restoration works significant works along 23 routes on 18 of the public to ‘Adopt A Path’ and help on the Cobbler as well as supporting the mountains including Ben Lui, Ben Ledi, by reporting on the condition of key routes Friends in the restoration of the Lauder and Ben More, as well as those across the Park there is something for Memorial site in Glenbranter. mentioned previously. everyone. We will start to recruit for our next intake of Works are carried out by teams of highly So if you are interested in getting out to trainees in February with the course starting skilled upland contractors who work in meet like-minded people and do your bit extreme locations and often challenging for the conservation of our mountains or conditions. Wherever possible materials if you just want to know more about what for the works are sourced close to the path, routes are going to be repaired and when ensuring minimal impact to the environment then don’t hesitate to get in touch. and cost effective delivery. However, given the geology of some of the mountains To find out more about what needing repair this is not always possible is happening next with The and at times, helicopters are needed to Mountains & The People visit www. import stone from nearby locations. All themountainsandthepeople.org.uk Caption

18 The Voice - Autumn-Winter 2016 www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 19 Friends of OUR park • Friends of OUR park • Friends of OUR park • Friends of OUR park • Friends of OUR park • Friends of OUR park • Friends of OUR park • Friends of OUR park • Friends of OUR park •

Friends of OUR Park is a very successful voluntary visitor giving and volunteering initiative led by the Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs with support from 100 local businesses, Scottish Enterprise and the National Park Authority. Here we feature different aspects of OUR Park which is going from strength to strength and making a real difference in the National Park.

focus on Adventure Star Mark Cruise Loch Lomond Beaumont Launches Stuart Cordner, Managing Director of family run Cruise New Walks Map Loch Lomond, talks about their business and involvement with the Friends of OUR park scheme. During a recent Wild Argyll Challenge Milestone for a Safer Park involving 12 days and 12 sports, including At a special celebration event at the Oak Tree Inn, access defibrillators out there and they will find out cycling, running, canoeing, sailing, fell Balmaha a mobile app was launched to enable where they are. All our defibrillators are checked What attracted you to do business in Tarbet running and riding, adventure personality Young Ranger Programme Support members of the public to the Loch Lomond and on a monthly basis and if any are found not to be with Cruise Loch Lomond? Mark Beaumont joined up with keen The Trossachs National Park and surrounding area working, they will not be displayed on the app.” The Friends joined forces with the National Park Authority to help fund an expansion outdoor man and local hotel proprietor, My late father started the business in Tarbet in the early 1980s. He to easily locate life-saving defibrillators. Bruce Crawford said: “I first met Trossachs Search of the popular Young Ranger Programme that was successfully piloted last year. Niall Colquhoun and John Urquhart of always claimed it was good fortune that made him choose Tarbet. The Friends of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs and Rescue when a defibrillator was being The funding from the OUR park visitor giving scheme helped the Park Authority to Helensburgh and District Access Trust However he recognised that location was everything particularly for helped fund the development of the app with installed in Croftamie and didn’t understand the support 10 young people from McLaren High School in Callander and 12 young (HADAT) to launch the Trust’s new footpath travel trade business on the A82. The village can be accessed by regular a £1,000 grant from the OUR park visitor giving impact these devices can have, so I am grateful to people from Balfron High School to join National Park and partner agency staff in a map which features 14 local walks in the public transport connections and now benefits from being at the centre scheme and this formed part of a more ambitious them for introducing me to them. To have 75 of week long programme of activities just before the school summer holidays. Helensburgh, West Loch Lomond and of the National Park, offering ease of access by boat to some of the joint initiative with Trossachs Search and Rescue them available in the National Park is a fantastic The programme was successful in helping connect young people to the outdoors and Clyde Sea Lochs area. hidden gems on the eastern shore of the loch. and local communities that has led to the achievement and to look at the app makes me gave them an appreciation of and respect for wild places in the National Park. The John Urquhart said: “The map was financed The family business has expanded since the early days operating cruises, installation of dozens of public access defibrillators realise that this should be an example for the whole youngsters participated in a range of outdoor activities and practical tasks often with by the Friends popular OUR park visitor ferries and waterbus services from a number of locations around the to improve the safety of the 4 million annual visitors of Scotland – to save as many lives as we can, in as National Park Rangers and staff from partner bodies. They also all completed their giving scheme. Niall Colquhoun of the Loch. I now run the Company with my cousin Fred and step Mum Marie. to the National Park and the 16,000 residents who many parts of the country as we can.” John Muir Award, gaining invaluable knowledge, skills and experience in conservation Lodge at Loch Lomond and the Inn on live in the Park Jackie Baillie added: “Defibrillators save lives and and challenges managing protected areas that are popular visitor destinations. Loch Lomond hotels and ourselves at At the event Trossachs Search and Rescue bring obvious benefits to people who live here as There is great scope and demand to expand the Young Ranger Programme in future Tell us about your inspiration and plans Balmillig B&B here in Helensburgh, are also handed over its 75th defibrillator to Clyde well as the many visitors. I am delighted that this is years but this will depend on additional funding being available to support what for Cruise Loch Lomond. both long term supporters of OUR park and Regional Scout Council, who operate Auchengillan the 75th defibrillator to be installed in the National Marc Fleming, Head Teacher at McLaren High School described as “a very exciting our guests are major contributors to the I am very fortunate to work where I do and I never tire of the loch, the Outdoor Centre in Blanefield. The celebration Park. I am very well aware of the effort that goes and innovative opportunity for pupils to be more involved in National Park related scheme.” unique scenery and in particular the light on the hills. Some of my event was attended by Bruce Crawford MSP and into raising funds for these devices, so thanks to activities with tangible outputs that they greatly benefit from.” Niall, who is a keen mountain biker himself, mates reckon I have the ‘Carlsberg job’; a job which I really do love. I Jackie Baillie MSP and a group of volunteers and you all because I think this is a very impressive had accompanied Mark from Arrochar to spend a lot of my leisure time in, on and around the loch so I find it an supporters including representatives from the achievement.” Helensburgh, cycling along the Three Lochs easy sell to day trippers; holiday-makers and visitors. Friends, Trossachs Search and Rescue, Helensburgh Friends Chairman James Fraser said: “Having Making a Difference at Inversnaid Way, the popular long distance walking and Cruise Loch Lomond has expanded into the outdoor activity market in and District CPR/Defibrillator Association, 75 defibrillators available has required over A group of over 40 volunteers were taken by boat from Tarbet courtesy of Cruise mountain biking route between Balloch and recent years offering a variety of ‘soft’ adventure cycling / walking and Garelochhead and Rosneath Peninsula Community £100,000 of investment, which has been raised Loch Lomond to participate in a very successful ‘Make a Difference Day’ at Inversnaid Inveruglas which has been developed by cruise combinations on and around Loch Lomond. Our new products First Responders. through donations by local residents, fundraising on the east side of Loch Lomond. This volunteering event was jointly organised by the Helensburgh based trust with OUR Park appeal to a wider audience for multi generations that combine outdoor Stuart Ballantyne of Trossachs Search and Rescue events, contributions from local businesses, and the Friends and the Mountains and the People project team on 28th September support over the last 5 years or so. activity with food / drink experiences in riparian restaurants and pubs. said: “The idea came around three and a half sponsorship, along with the Friends of OUR park and was supported by the Park Authority. Tasks undertaken on the day included the Chair of The Friends of Loch Lomond and I would like to see the company continue to grow in this area and we years ago when we decided to place public visitor giving scheme which we run with 100 local removal of rhododendrons and path improvements works. Photos from the event will the Trossachs, James Fraser, said: “Ensuring are currently collaborating with other businesses to create exciting new access defibrillators in areas where we had been businesses participating. feature in the next edition. good quality maps and information on local products for 2017. on the go for many years, delivering training. ‘’We were delighted to sponsor the new mobile walks is available in printed format is a high Sometimes we are attending incidents where, by app and we congratulate Trossachs Search and priority for the Friends and with the help of Why do you support Friends of OUR Park? the time we get there, we cannot do anything due Rescue and other local groups in what they have local businesses and their guests we were Pointing the Way to Loch Tay to the time difference. The app will give people achieved to ensure the area is safer for locals and Cruise Loch Lomond has been a supporter of OUR park scheme for a pleased to provide HADAT with the funding a greater chance of survival as there are public visitors.” Despite Loch Tay being Scotland’s sixth largest freshwater loch and famous for its number of years as we recognise the significant impact the Friends of to print 5,000 copies of this latest map salmon and pike fishing, the largest village on Loch Tay, Killin, has until recently had Loch Lomond and the Trossachs has made in conserving the special which I am sure will be popular with local no access signage to the loch. Now, thanks to support from the Friends, visitors are qualities of the area, providing support for projects that will make the residents and visitors.” guided to the head of the loch along a scenic path long popular with locals. National Park a better place to visit and in promoting the heritage of The map is on sale for £1 at a number of Stop Press…Stop Press…. Stop Press… The Friends provided a grant of £790 from the OUR park visitor giving scheme to sign our local area. The company recently launched a new website www. local outlets and all proceeds will be used In the latest round of grants from the funds raised by local businesses from visitors via the OUR park an all abilities circular path linking the main village car park with Loch Tay. A series cruiselochlomond.co.uk with a new booking system that allows visitors to help maintain and improve local paths. of attractive finger post signs have now been installed by the Breadalbane Tourism visitor giving scheme the Friends Trustees agreed to award £20,000 (£5,000/year over four years) to to make donations to OUR park when booking cruises online. To date Co-operative whose Chairman, Ken Chew said: “This signing has helped to raise the park-wide Mountains and the People Project for path repair works; £1,000 to Lomond Mountain we have been delighted with the number of visitors donating to the awareness of this easy walk to Loch Tay and we are grateful to the Friends for their project. Rescue Team as a contribution towards the purchase of a new landrover; £950 to Arrochar and Tarbet support.” Community Council for a public access defibrillator at Ardlui and a new platform at the war memorial on Meanwhile, Ken is continuing to lead an What is particularly special for you about the the edge of Arrochar; £300 to Greenspace for training youths from the Vale of Leven in woodland skills; ongoing campaign to secure better road £2,330 for improvements at Tom Weir’s Rest in Balmaha; £500 to Cormonachan Woodland Trust for a signing for Loch Tay from Lix Toll and in the Tarbet area? new car park beside the community woodland south of Lochgoilhead; £1,500 for Lauder Statue path village itself. The campaign has met with Tarbet has strategically played a significant role in accessibility and travel and signage improvements in Glenbranter; and £250 for Callander Summerfest. mixed success so far but pressure on the since 13th century when Vikings sailed up Loch Long and dragged their A sum of £18,000 has been disbursed on a total of 18 grant awards so far this year. A big thankyou to public bodies responsible for road signing is long boats across the isthmus to Tarbet and then sailed south on Loch the many thousands of visitors who have made donations through the visitor giving scheme and also to due to be stepped up to address this issue. Lomond. Today, at the hub of the National Park, Tarbet offers numerous the many businesses participating in the scheme which continues to make a real difference in and around outdoor adventure offerings with numerous walks and ferry / waterbus options to the eastern shore. However, the views that can be enjoyed the National Park. from Tarbet Pier are second to none.

20 The Voice - Autumn-Winter 2016 www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 21 EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS • EVENTS

Throughout the late spring and summer months the Friends organised a series of very successful events with partners such as the Tom Weir Memorial Group and the Lennox Literary Society Mid-Summer and funding support was provided for events such as the popular Callander Summerfest that now includes more than 50 events. Here Weirfest we share some of these successes and a reminder is also included for our Christmas event at Ross Priory in early December with tickets available now by contacting Andrew Galloway (contact details below). Celebrations

Thousands of visitors flocked to a sun-kissed as the Loch Lomond Ukulele Orchestra Gordon Watson, chief executive of Loch Balmaha Bay on Loch Lomondside to enjoy who added colour to the programme with Lomond and The Trossachs National Park the second ‘Weirfest’, the annual festival set red toorie hats in abundance. Local blues Authority, was in attendance to launch the up to honour Scotland’s most-loved mountain musician Dave Arcari added a more electric booklet and welcomed its introduction. He man, Tom Weir, with a mixture of music, sound to the day with a vibrant and energetic thought this was a great Friends educational entertainment and family fun beside his iconic set. Visitors were also able to enjoy various initiative as it involved so many local children statue. wildlife demonstrations provided by the RSPB in learning more about Loch Lomond and its This year’s event was supported by a Heritage and NTS, while the chance to throw wet special qualities. Lottery Fund grant as part of the Friends replica versions of Tom’s signature red toorie Rhona Weir, at the age of 96, was also able wider Tom Weir’s Loch Lomond Wonderland hat and following Tom’s Discovery Trail added to join in the day’s events at the site, enjoying project that included installing storyboards at some extra fun to the day. a pleasant midsummer afternoon when the the Tom Weir’s Rest site and the production The 28 page booklet and exhibition on weather was once again kind on the day of a of a special booklet and exhibition showcasing the theme of Tom Weir’s Loch Lomond major event at the Tom Weir Statue site. Both the work of 300 school children from the six Wonderland was launched at the event to Weirfests have now been fortunate enough primary schools around the loch celebrating coincide with the 50th anniversary of Tom their wonders of the Loch Lomond in pictures writing special features on Loch Lomond in to be staged in bright sunshine and have and stories. the Scots Magazine. Pupils at Gartocharn, attracted large crowds in the process. Enthusiastic Friends and Tom Weir Memorial Milton of Buchanan, Drymen, Arrochar, Luss Weirfest, which was first staged in May Group volunteers and the team at the and Jamestown Primary Schools all made a 2015, was organised jointly by the Tom Weir Oak Tree Inn helped run the event which significant contribution to the publication, Memorial Group and the Friends, both of was headlined on the main musical stage which has already proven a success with whom helped to establish the statue site and by popular Scottish entertainers Jimmie visitors to the National Park since its continue to be responsible maintaining it all MacGregor and Alistair MacDonald, as well distribution following Weirfest. year round.

Callander Summerfest US National More than 5,000 people joined the fun Parks Service at Callander & Trossachs Summerfest 2016, two weeks of exhibitions, craft Centennial workshops, poetry, music, film and drama with Liz Lochhead and the Celebrations Mince Pies, Mulled Wine, Scottish Chamber Orchestra joining a As part of the US National Park Service centennial importance of preserving wild places; a walk on the wealth or local talent. This year featured Music and Mini Craft Fair celebrations, Friends Vice-Chairman, John Urquhart first stage of The John Muir Way, Scotland’s new more outdoor and sporting activities, helped coordinate a series of events involving long distance coast to coast walking route which On Sunday 4th December 2016 including a one-day festival at McLaren US National Parks ‘Centennial Ambassador’, Lee links Helensburgh with Dunbar; a reception at the 2.00pm to 4.30pm Leisure, cycle rides and walks. Stetson, who brought ‘the spirit of John Muir’ back headquarters of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs home to Scotland in a portrayal of the great man National Park where he met young folk starting out Tickets £8 each. Sunset Cruise symbolically walking home to Dunbar where he was on a John Muir award programme; the opening of The musical entertainment this year will be born in 1838. Helensburgh’s “John Muir Wildlife and Ecology Film A bumper turnout of Friends members and literary enthusiasts enjoyed Lee, a retired Hollywood actor, is well known for his Festival” at the Tower Digital Arts Centre; planting provided by The B Flats. memorable portrayals of the John Muir having been sapling Californian sequoia trees at Hermitage Park; the annual cruise on Loch Lomond in glorious August sunshine. Almost a highlight for hundreds of thousands of visitors to and opening the Friends sponsored Tom and Rhona Some local craft workers will have stalls to sell 100 people were on board the Sweeneys Cruise vessel Astina for the Yosemite National Park since 1983. Yosemite was Weir Mountain Garden in Balmaha. a range of good value original craft gifts (cash event, which is organised every year by the Lennox Literary Society in one of the first National Parks established in the John Urquhart, said: “The Friends, with the support sales only) association with the Friends. United States over 100 years ago as a direct result of Argyll and Bute, the National Park and local of the extensive writings and lobbying by John Muir businesses, were delighted to help host Lee’s visit Local rock band Hell 4 Leather performed To avoid disappointment book early as to protect this special place. It was also the start of with this series of successful events to mark the start a selection of Loch Lomond songs and a movement that led to the creation of over 409 of the US National Parks Centennial Celebrations this event is normally a sell out. ballads as the boat took passengers on parks in America’s National Park system. here in Scotland and the great contribution made Tickets available now. a cruise around the islands of the loch. Lee’s packed programme included an inspirational by John Muir to the worldwide National Parks Tel Andrew Galloway on 01389 727761 Thanks to John Sweeney for providing one talk to pupils at Hermitage Academy on the movement.” Tues –Fri 10.00-16.00 or email of his cruise boats at a special discounted [email protected] price as part of his support for the Friends.

22 The Voice - Autumn-Winter 2016 www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 23 The landmark Trossachs Hotel has been attracting visitors to the heart of the National Park since it first opened in 1849. It was originally built to cope with the influx of visitors attracted to the Trossachs by the popularity of Sir Walter Scott’s book Lady of the Lake. Over the years the hotel had a chequered ownership history and eventually fell into a state of disrepair. Its long term future was secured in 1992 when Friends Business Supporters, Holiday Property Bond(HPB) had the foresight to rescue the hotel and, with the assistance of the Scottish Tourist Board, invested millions transforming it into a high quality resort which re-opened in 1993. Here we chart the success story of An Tigh Mor (The Big House) that now attracts 12,000 guests each year to the Trossachs through the innovative holiday property bond investment scheme. We also feature some of the Tigh Mor staff who continue to ensure the success of the resort Holiday Property Bond at Tigh Mor Trossachs

ITH 76 one, two and three but original idea with investors putting bedroom apartments Tigh money into a life assurance bond. The WMor is Holiday Property bond is linked to a fund investing in high Bond’s largest resort in the U.K. All the quality holiday properties and securities apartments are fitted out and equipped giving investors a financial interest not to a very high standard and on site just in the fund but the portfolio of there is a leisure centre with swimming properties as well as the right to use pool, sauna, solarium, steam room, them for their own holidays rent-free. Nikki added: ‘’It’s interesting to snooker tables, indoor carpet bowling The number of investors (bondholders) see how the profiles of our visitors and gymnasium. There is also a range of has grown every year and now stands at change throughout the seasons-from other leisure facilities including a bistro, more than 46,000. retired couples to large family groups, library and three all- weather tennis Nikki Cirillo, who has been at Tigh sometimes spanning three generations. courts and fishing boats. Mor since 2008 and became Manager However, there’s plenty for them to do Situated in a sensitive scenic location, in 2009, says: ‘’I count myself very –both onsite and in the surrounding area- the site is very environmentally friendly lucky as I live and work in a very special at all times of the year.’’ despite the large number of guests who part of Scotland. My journey to work Tigh Mor is a major employer in the now stay at Tigh Mor. Sophisticated from Callander is a delight with the area with 23 full and part-time staff. The energy conservation systems are installed changing moods and colours of the resort is also not resting on its laurels and the sewage treatment plant includes Trossachs throughout the year. I am also as HPB have continued to invest in three ‘duck ponds’ with ornate water fortunate to work with a great bunch of maintaining the fabric of the t buildings cascades. people who are dedicated to ensuring and grounds and there are currently The Holiday Property Bond concept, our thousands of guests have truly plans to increase the number of holiday developed by Geoffrey Baber and Robert memorable holiday experiences in first apartments by converting a nearby large Boyce in the early 1980s, is a simple class facilities and surroundings.’’ house that has recently been purchased.

Scott’s Bistro, situated in the grounds of Tigh Mor, was opened in 1999 and was named after Sir Walter Scott himself. Since 2002, Mark Nicols has been at the head of dishing up delicious traditional, local food to well over 100,000 bondholders, a large percentage of who are repeat customers. He is joined by his long serving maitre d’, Prasad, who has an uncanny gift for remembering everyone’s names and faces. A blessing in a job like his! In between being head chef and boss, Mark is also a member of the Killin Mountain Rescue team and can sometimes be called away in the middle of service. Fortunately for him, he has a dedicated team in the kitchen who can take over when the need arises and free Mark to undertake this worthy cause. Scott’s Bistro is also open to the locals and can be contacted on 01877-376389 for bookings.

24 The Voice - Autumn-Winter 2016 www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 25 Foundation Supporters £500 MINIMUM • CAMERON HOUSE • LOCHS & GLENS HOLIDAYS Organisation that operates in the Loch Lomond, Strathendrick, Loch Lomond, Dunbartonshire, G83 8QZ School Road, Gartocharn, G83 8RW West Dunbartonshire and Clyde Sea Lochs areas. It is dedicated to working on a collaborative basis to capitalise on the area’s strong Tel: 01389 755 565 Fax: 01389 713 281 Tel: 01389 713 713 tourism potential. www.cameronhouse.co.uk email: [email protected] • ARDOCH A magnificent baronial mansion surrounded by 100 acres of www.lochsandglens.com Gartocharn G83 8ND 01389 710401 woodland, Cameron House on Loch Lomond, blends traditional Lochs & Glens Holidays are proud to support the Friends of Loch email: [email protected] Scottish influences with sumptuous contemporary décor to offer Lomond & The Trossachs guests a memorable stay in the finest surroundings. This is your www.ardoch-scotland.com • LODGE ON LOCH LOMOND HOTEL lochside Baronial mansion and much more with our Carrick resort Ardoch is an exceptional venue for business seminars and family our 18-hole championship golf course and luxury spa. Luss, Argyll, G83 8PA reunions. There are18 bedrooms and numerous meeting rooms in a Tel: 01436 860 201 Fax: 01436 860 203 mix of traditional and contemporary spaces most of which overlook • TIGH MOR TROSSACHS email: [email protected] Loch Lomond. Hire Ardoch on an exclusive basis and be assured of Telephone: 0800 2300391 total privacy. Phone Luke for details. www.loch-lomond.co.uk • LUSS ESTATES www.hpb-trossachs.co.uk The 4-star Lodge on Loch Lomond Hotel has a unique lochside Tigh Mor Trossachs is the Scottish flagship of the Holiday Property setting. It offers stylish accommodation, some with en-suite saunas Luss Estates Company, Arnburn Arden Bond (www.hpb.co.uk). It was formerly the Trossachs Hotel and private balconies, Colquhoun’s, a 2 AA rosette restaurant with Argyll, G83 8RH which by 1990 had fallen into a state of disrepair. Tigh Mor was panoramic views of the Loch and mountains and leisure facilities email: [email protected] completely renovated in 1992 and now has 76 properties, an indoor with swimming pool. swimming pool and extensive leisure facilities. www.lussestates.co.uk • LOCH KATRINE One of Scotland’s greatest Estates, spanning 40,000+ acres and • OPTICAL EXPRESS & MOULSDALE FOUNDATION Trossachs Pier, Loch Katrine, By Callander, eight centuries of continuous ownership by the family of Colquhoun Telephone: 0800 023 20 20 Stirling FK17 8HZ of Luss. Today we combine farming, forestry, tourism, property and power generation - protecting, preserving and developing email: [email protected] Information and Reservations - (01877) 332000 The Steamship Sir Walter Scott the estate to enrich and ensure the future of the land, resources, D www.opticalexpress.com www.lochkatrine.com villages, communities and people which are at our heart. is fully wheelchair friendly The Moulsdale Foundation & Optical Express are proud to support Loch Katrine - a special experience for everyone to enjoy. Cruising • ARGYLL HOLIDAYS the Friends of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs. For 35 years, the Loch Katrine in the heart of The Trossachs is a special experience - friends have been working to protect the area’s environmental on the classic steamship ‘Sir Walter Scott’, or on ‘Lady of the Lake’. Lochgoilhead PA24 8AD 08454596412 heritage, promote it as a most special part of Scotland, and provide Visitor amenities include lochside walks, shopping, cycle hire and www.argyllholidays.com for its future through a range of projects for people and for wildlife. Katrine Café. Cruises depart daily (April until October), with the The Campbell family have developed quality holiday parks and Sailings first sailing at 10:30am. hotels in seven stunning scenic locations in Argyll with a number • ROSS PRIORY • LOVE LOCH LOMOND in, or close to, the National Park. They are all easily accessible and events Gartocharn G83 8NL 0141 548 3565 and just within an hour from Glasgow. As part of their growing Ross Priory, on the banks of Loch Lomond, the Staff Educational email: [email protected] emphasis on green and active holidays, Argyll Holidays are with added and Recreational Centre of the University of Strathclyde, is proud www.lovelochlomond.com delighted to be supporting the work of the Friends of Loch Lomond to support the Friends of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs. Love Loch Lomond is a recently formed industry led Destination and The Trossachs. sparkle

Business Plus Supporters £250 MINIMUM • Daily sailings on the steamship Sir Walter Scott • THE OAK TREE INN BALMAHA • SWEENEY’S CRUISES • THE MYRTLE INN HOLIDAY COTTAGE Glasgow, G63 0JQ Tel: 01360 870 357 Balloch, Loch Lomond, G83 8SS Tel: 01877 330 919 Mobile 07703838800 (Until Monday 2nd January 2017) email: [email protected] Tel: 01389 752 376 [email protected] www.oak-tree-inn.co.uk email: [email protected] New on the self-catering list - cottage sleeps up to five, only a Family run inn on east side of Loch Lomond adjacent to www.sweeneyscruises.com few minutes from all the shops with a handy Spar even closer • Legends of the Loch cruises on Lady of the Lake and a brand new coffee shop opening in May! WHW, serving good food all day with bunk, standard and Scottish Tourist Board 4-star tours on Loch Lomond. All deluxe accommodation available cruises have live commentary, bar and toilet facilities. Open • DEEPSTREAM DESIGN (Until Easter Sunday 16th April 2017) • THE WINNOCK HOTEL 7 days a week all year round. Coach House Cottage, Station Rd, Rhu G84 The Square, Drymen, Loch Lomond, G63 0BL • BALMILLIG B & B Tel: 07795 156681 [email protected] Tel: 01360 660 245 64B Colquhoun St, Helensburgh, G84 9JP Coming from an experienced blue-chip background. email: [email protected] Tel: 01436 674 922 Deepstream offer a full range of graphic design services. • Katrine Gifts & Katrine Café www.winnockhotel.com email: [email protected] Friends supporters receive a 15% discount on first project. The Winnock Hotel in Drymen is the perfect choice for www.balmillig.co.uk • LOCH LOMOND SEAPLANES everything from a delicious bar meal through to a fun-filled Superb 4 star accommodation minutes from the National PO Box 26613, Helensburgh G84 9YG FIREWORKS CRUISE & LIVE MUSIC SPECTACULAR - 5th November party-night, ceilidh or special event. Park’s southern edge. An environmentally committed Tel 01436675030 • BEST WESTERN BUCHANAN ARMS business also offering bespoke guided tours – day walking [email protected] – Join us onboard the classic steamship Sir Walter Scott for live music from the fabulous Shaky, and mountain guiding. HOTEL AND SPA Fly in a luxury seaplane back to the halycon days of travel complimentary burgers and delicious hot dogs from our barbecue, and round off the perfect 23 Main Street, Drymen, Glasgow G63 0BQ • LOMOND LUXURY LODGES with a first class seat over the most magnificent landscape end to your evening onboard with a spectacular, dazzling fireworks display against the magical Tel: 01360 660 588 Croftamie, By Glasgow G63 0EX in the world. Take off from the romantic shores of Loch Tel: 01360 660054 Lomond. Discovery tours from £129 to £169. Flight surroundings of The Trossachs National Park. email: [email protected] vouchers make the perfect gift. www.buchananarms.co.uk email: [email protected] www.lochlomond-holidays.co.uk One of the finest and most popular small hotels in Loch VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS AND SAIL WITH SANTA Lomond and the Trossachs, with a character and charm 5 Star luxury lodges located within the Loch Lomond and the which sits peacefully and calmly with the qualities of its Trossachs National Park making this family-run business an Would you like to become - Weekends 10th, 11th, 17th & 18th December surroundings. ideal base for touring this truly exceptional area. a Friends supporter? – A great experience for both children and adults - join our very popular “Sail with Santa” • CRUISE LOCH LOMOND • CALLANDER ENTERPRISE The Boatyard, Tarbet. Loch Lomond, G83 7DG email: [email protected] Please contact us today... cruise on the iconic steamship Sir Walter Scott. Santa and his helpers will spend time with each child Tel: 01301 702 356 www.twitter.com/incallander Friends of Loch Lomond and and give them a wrapped up present on this festive hour long sail. Adults are not left out as our price email: [email protected] www.incallander.co.uk The Trossachs also includes a glass of mulled wine for the adults and local Christmas fayre. www.cruiselochlomond.co.uk Callander Enterprise is dynamic business group with The Old Station, Balloch Experience the serenity of the bonnie banks through the ambitious objectives to benefit the entire business community Alexandria G83 8SS winter on award winning cruises - Rambler; Explorer; in the area. The 200+ members cover the largest settlement NEW YEAR CELEBRATION CRUISE - Sunday 1st & Monday 2nd January 2017 Rob Roy Discovery, Ben Lomond Hike. From Tarbet, Luss, within the National Park Telephone: 01389 298008 Inversnaid, Balmaha, Rowardennan. Email: info@ – Come along and enjoy our one hour New Year Celebration Cruise aboard the steamship lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk Sir Walter Scott, and in addition to taking in the magical scenery of Loch Katrine and The Trossachs, Business Supporters £100 MINIMUM we invite you to join us in a complimentary toast to the Auld and New Year with traditional, locally • POPPIES HOTEL & RESTAURANT • THE KILTED SKIRLIE produced black-bun and shortbread whilst listening to live music from Iain Barrie & Friends. Leny Road, Callander FK17 8AL Ben Lomond Way, Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch • FOREST HOLIDAYS Tel: 01877 330 329 G83 8QPTel: 01389 754 759 www.poppieshotel.com www.kiltedskirlie.co.uk Argyll Forest and Strathyre Tel 08451308223 www.forestholidays.co.uk VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR THE FULL LIST OF DATES & TIMES OF ALL EVENTS • VENACHAR LOCHSIDE • MAID OF THE LOCH • ASHTINS AROMATICS Loch Venachar, Callander FK17 8HP The Pier, Pier Road, Balloch G83 8QX Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch. Tel: 01877 330 011 Tel: 01389 711865 www.venachar-lochside.co.uk www.maidoftheloch.com Tel:01389 720888 www.ashtins.co.uk • DELI ECOSSE Trossachs Pier, Loch Katrine, • WHEELS CYCLING CENTRE - • PAUL SAUNDERS Ancaster Square, Callander FK17 8ED. BIKES / HIRE PHOTOGRAPHY by Callander, Stirling FK17 8HZ Invertrossachs Rd, Callander, FK17 8HW 7 Gartness Court Drymen, Glasgow G63 0AX Tel:01877 331220 Tel: 01877 331 100 Tel: 01360 661029 www.deliecosse.co.uk T: 01877 376315/6 • [email protected] • www.lochkatrine.com www.scottish-cycling.com www.paulsaundersphotography.com

26 The Voice - Autumn-Winter 2016 www.lochlomondtrossachs.org.uk 27

Home of the Steamship Sir Walter Scott 28 The Voice - Autumn-Winter 2016