Kilmichael Forest swathes the hills in green right around Loch Glashan reservoir. Take the Glashan Burn trail through broadleaved woods – a riot of colour in autumn – to reach the dam and reservoir.
For the more adventurous, there’s a network of forest roads and paths around the loch shore, suitable for walking and cycling.
Guide map to the Forests of Mid Argyll and Kintyre (PDF 7.1MB)
Circle through pleasant broadleaved woodland around Glashan Burn at the foot of the reservoir’s dam.
Mostly narrow stony path with a stretch on forest road. Long gentle slopes with some short steeper sections.
Allow ¾ hours
It’s a fairly easy stroll beside the burn here, but be ready for a couple of steeper sections as you head towards the dam.
Bring a picnic and take the spur off the red trail to reach a scenic picnic spot at a viewpoint overlooking the reservoir.
Venture further afield on the forest roads for lovely hill and loch views and to find several wildlife havens. Find the Add Ponds on the far side of the reservoir, a great place to see many different species of dragonfly and damselfly, as well as lots of other water insects.
Be aware that a full circuit of the reservoir is more than 10 miles (16 km), so make sure you are well prepared! Ordnance Survey maps Explorer 358: Lochgilphead & Knapdale North and Landranger 55: Lochgilphead & Loch Awe cover the forest and its surrounding area.
Permits are available from local hotels and tackle shops for fishing on Loch Glashan and other nearby lochs.
You can find a cafè at nearby Lochgair village, and public toilets and plenty of places to eat, drink and shop at Lochgilphead.
Glashan can be found on the A83 between Lochgair and Minard. Look for our 'Glashan Burn' sign on the west side of the road.
PA31 8SB is the nearest postcode.
In addition to the regular local bus services, the Glasgow to Campbeltown service also stops at Lochgair. Plan your journey at Traveline Scotland.
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