I hope everyone has been enjoying the new year so far! Now is the perfect chance to start exploring more of the wonderful locations and amazing landmarks in Scotland. There are fantastic places and activities you can enjoy when visiting Callander. Some of these include Bracklinn Falls Bridge, Callander Crags, Galleria Luti, The Trossachs Trail, Hamilton Toy Collection, Scottish Real Ale Shop and Loch Katrine Cruises on the Sir Walter Scott Steamboat. If you are looking for accommodation in Callander, why not consider staying in Northchurch Apartment 8 or Northchurch Apartment 4.
Bracklinn Falls Bridge
If looking to embrace more of nature during 2022, Bracklinn Falls is the ideal location to consider. Bracklinn Falls is a very popular local beauty destination. After crossing the bridge, the path continues through majestic forestry before descending to the peaceful upper glen. Although the bridge connecting the path is currently closed, you can admire the beautiful waterfall and surrounding scenery. The cast-iron bridge was originally constructed for Queen Victoria during the 1870s. The bridge was then replaced with a wooden structure in 2010 due to the original bridge being destroyed by a flood in 2004. The word Bracklinn originates from the Gaelic word ‘Breac’ – meaning speckles or tawny which refers to the colour of the water and from ‘Linn’ meaning pool. Along the path, there are spectacular views of the upper glen of the Keltie Water towards Stùc a’Chròin (a steep and rocky peak) and of the tumbling falls.
Callander Crags
Another fantastic nature spot in Callander is Callander Crags. The Crags are a distinctive part of the Highland Boundary Fault. The Callander Crags offer an amazing view north of the mountains and lochs of the Highlands. Following this path takes you high above Callander, passing through mixed woodland. There is a wonderful view of Callander and the wold area of moorland to the north. The scenic woodland walk can also lead to a visit to Bracklinn Falls, which is nearby. The path crosses a small bridge and climbs uphill through a couple of wide zig zag paths. Upon passing a picnic bench, a line of crags can be viewed straight ahead. The route entails steep stone steps in order to reach the top of the crags. This then rewards you with a breath-taking view over Callander. Along this path, there is also the chance to view the Jubilee Cairn, erected in 1897 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. The path is filled with beautiful greenery such as birch trees, pine trees and native woodland. There is also a spectacular view of Ben Ledi.
Galleria Luti
If you are looking to explore art and local creativity, why not visit Galleria Luti. Galleria Luti is owned and managed by mother and daughter duo Sandie and Marsha Luti, who opened the gallery in August 2006. Both Sandie and Marsha Luti were brought up in extremely art oriented families and from there, they opened Callander’s first dedicated original art gallery. The gallery features an impressive company of exhibiting artists and the collective ‘family’ of artists who regularly exhibit has since flourished. Galleria Luti features original art from various Scottish artists that are both new talent and well-established artists. The gallery prides in being accessible and enjoyable to all and aims to keep artists as local as possible. The gallery features paintings, jewellery and other Scottish crafts such as ceramics, mosaics and sculptures.
The Trossachs Trail
The Trossachs Trail is a 40-mile route that draws inspiration from the original Trossachs Tour of the 1800s. Originally, the trail was comprised of a series of brown road signs that led the way. The trail has since been upgraded. The Trossachs can be described as a large area comprised of woodland, lochs and mountains between Callander and Aberfoyle. The name ‘Trossachs’ originates from a small wooden glen that leads from Loch Achray to Loch Katrine. The route enables you to explore various places such as Doune, Callander, Aberfoyle, Blair Drummond, Deanston, Brig o’ Turk and Kilmahog. The highlights that you can discover along the Trossachs can be explored through foot, boat or bike. These include Doune Castle, mountains such as Ben Ledi and Ben Vorlich, Blair Drummond Safari Park, Deanston Distillery, three lochs forest drive and beautiful waterfalls such as the Falls of Leny near Callander.
Hamilton Toy Collection
Another great attraction in Callander is the Hamilton Toy Collection. Established in 1994, the Hamilton Toy Museum and Collectors Shop is one of the largest privately-owned toy collections in the UK. The toy museum is a family owned business which showcases 175 years of combined toy collecting by the Hamilton family. The toy collection is displayed over two floors, which stocks a wide range of vintage, pre-owned and new toys. The type of toys that are showcased in the collectors’ shop include die-cast cars, model railways, model kits, soldiers, film related collectables, soldiers, dolls and doll houses, puppets, action figures and books. The museum is also interested in purchasing vintage (pre-1980s) toys for the shop and museum. The toy museum consists of five rooms that are guaranteed to induce feelings of nostalgia.
Scottish Real Ale Shop
If you want to stop off for a drink, a great place to try is the Scottish Real Ale Shop. The Scottish Real Ale Shop was opened in 2005, inspired by their love for pairing ale and food. The Scottish Real Ale Shop’s aim is to provide a one-stop shop which specialises in the best beers that Scotland has to offer. There are over 210 different Scottish ales by over 40 microbreweries, which stretches from the Shetlands to the borders. There is also an online store that offers a various range Scottish bottled and canned ales and ciders.
Loch Katrine Cruises on the Sir Walter Scott Steamboat
If you want an adventure on the loch, you should visit Loch Katrine Cruises. Going on a cruise is a great opportunity to embrace the beauty of Loch Katrine on the famous steamship Sir Walter Scott. With many charms and rich heritage, Loch Katrine has won the hearts of countless visitors. It is truly one of Scotland’s special places. This is truly the best way to experience the beauty of Loch Katrine. There is various type of cruisers to choose from such as the 45 Minute Return Cruise, the 2 Hour Return Cruise and the 1 Hour Return Cruise.
