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Argyll and Bute

Loch Glashan

The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Loch Glashan

4.5

(40)

323

hikers

16

hikes

Family friendly hiking trails around Loch Glashan are characterized by a serene blend of tranquil lochs and sprawling forests, including Kilmichael Forest and Ardcastle Wood. The landscape features diverse terrain, from well-compacted forest roads to grassy paths, offering continuous scenic views of the loch and surrounding hills. An ancient crannog within the loch adds historical interest to the natural setting.

Best family friendly hiking trails around Loch Glashan

  • The most popular family friendly hiking route is Ardcastle Forest – Ardcastle…

Last updated: May 17, 2026

4.8

(6)

45

hikers

#1.

Ardcastle Point Trail

8.11km

02:13

120m

120m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Lis van Lynden
July 3, 2025, Ballimore Bothy

It is a great experience to stay at the Bothy, on the shores of Loch Fyne. It has several different rooms to choose from. Please note though, although there’s a kettle, there’s no kitchen as such. There is a pub a few meters away though, named the Oystercatcher, providing great food. Fresh seafood as well as other things on the menu. Outside seating area. The entire pub has just been renovated and a new team in the kitchens. Well worth a visit to this stunning area, that few know of. The sunsets can be glorious in the summer. You are able to sit on the beach (a mere few metres from the pub and bothy!), directly on Loch Fyne.

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Bar and restaurant with outdoor terrace

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Loch Fyne: the spit walk at Otter Ferry Be very mindful of the low/high tides as it changes fast. It is a walk you can only do at low tide, as you walk along the spit to the green buoy. It will possibly feel a bit strange at first as you’ll be walking into the middle of the Loch. There are two types of lochs in Scotland; one is freshwater loch and the other is sea loch. Loch Fyne is famous due to its kippers and mackerel as well as being the longest sea loch in Scotland. When walking on the spit, if you are new to the area, bear in mind the tide times as most people are taken off guard. Not an area to be complacent with! Dogs must be kept on the lead as there’s a lot of bird life here. It is a rather stunning walk! Especially at sunset. A drink and/or food at the Oystercatcher pub is a great way to end your day at Otter Ferry!

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The Oystercatcher is a great cosy pub. Good food with incredible views. It’s part of Ballimore Estate. There’s Ballimore Bothy which you can book easily online. There’s a great beach you can walk along which then becomes part of the spit. Be very mindful of this area and the tides, as high tide can come in pretty fast. Never be complacent as it will take you by surprise. There are a few mooring buoys for boats to moor. This happens more within the summer months. Also great area for cyclists as there are multiple routes to do here (road/gravel/mtb).

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Otter Ferry consists of a pier with a jetty to the side of it. There’s a great beach. You are able to walk along the Spit but please do be aware of the tide times as high tide can come in pretty fast. There is a pub called the Oystercatcher which serves great food and drinks. During the winter months, it only opens at the weekend (at certain times), otherwise from Wednesday through to Sunday. Please check ahead when planning as this can change. If you want to walk in this area, there is Ballimore Estate. The drive is between the Ballimore Bothy and the beach and it’s a very beautiful walk. Bear in mind, you’ll need to leave your car in the car park by the pub. Also all dogs must be kept on a lead as there is much wildlife in this area. The Ballimore Bothy can easily be booked, if wanting to stay in this area. It is part of Argyll’s secret coast, after all! https://www.instagram.com/ballimorebothy?igsh=MWlqYWN5cm8zemRieg==

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A point of land overlooking Loch Fyne. An ideal spot to look out for some of Loch Fyne's population of seals!

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Part of the Kilmichael forsest and working woodland area. The forest offers plenty of areas of picnics, as well as opportunities for spotting the wide array of wildlife the woodland holds.

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Wonderful cycle path along Crinan Canal - quiet and easy to ride. -https://www.scotlandcycleroutes.org/routes/crinan-canal/

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Loch Glashan?

There are 16 family-friendly hiking routes around Loch Glashan, with 9 of them rated as easy, making them ideal for families with children.

What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in the Loch Glashan area?

The trails around Loch Glashan offer a mix of well-compacted forest roads and paths that can be grassy and uneven. You'll find yourself walking through tranquil woodlands, including Kilmichael Forest and Ardcastle Wood, with continuous scenic views of the loch and surrounding hills. Sturdy footwear is recommended.

Are there any easy circular walks suitable for families with younger children?

Yes, for an easy circular option, consider the Ardcastle Forest – Ardcastle Point loop from Cnoc nam Broighleag. This 6.2 km route takes about 1 hour and 42 minutes and offers lovely views through the forest.

Can we bring our dog on these family-friendly trails?

Many of the trails in the Loch Glashan area are dog-friendly, allowing your furry companions to join in the adventure. Always keep dogs under control, especially around wildlife and livestock, and be mindful of other hikers.

What are some interesting natural features or landmarks to look out for on the trails?

The area is rich in natural beauty. You'll encounter diverse woodlands, serene lochs like Loch Glashan, Loch Gair, and Loch Fyne, and potentially spot local wildlife. Historically, an ancient crannog (artificial island settlement) is located within Loch Glashan, adding a layer of intrigue to the natural setting.

What is the best time of year to visit Loch Glashan for family hiking?

Loch Glashan offers beautiful scenery throughout much of the year. In summer, you might find heather and blaeberries vibrant on hills like Cnoc nam Broighleag, while autumn and winter bring subtle gold and brown hues to the woodlands. Always prepare for changeable weather conditions typical of Scotland.

Are there any shorter walks suitable for toddlers or very young children?

For a shorter, easy walk, the Otter Spit Walk, Otter Ferry – Otter Ferry Spit loop from Otterferry is a great option. It's only 3.6 km and can be completed in under an hour, making it perfect for little legs.

What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails around Loch Glashan?

The trails around Loch Glashan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the diverse landscapes, and the well-maintained forest paths that make for enjoyable family outings.

Is there parking available near the trailheads?

Yes, parking is generally available near the trailheads for many of the routes in the Loch Glashan area. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages.

Are there any longer, more challenging family hikes for older children?

For families with older children looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Ardcastle Point Trail is a moderate 8.1 km route that takes around 2 hours and 12 minutes. It offers beautiful views and a good workout.

What should we pack for a family hike around Loch Glashan?

Given the changeable Scottish weather, it's wise to pack layers of clothing, waterproofs, sturdy footwear, and plenty of snacks and water. A map or GPS device is also recommended, along with a first-aid kit.

Are there any routes that follow canals or waterways?

Yes, the Lock No. 4, Crinan Canal – Crinan Canal Cycle Path loop from Lochgilphead offers an easy 6.0 km walk along the historic Crinan Canal, providing a different scenic experience.

Most popular routes around Loch Glashan

Hiking around Loch Glashan

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