
Three Lochs Forest Drive
A scenic 7-mile gravel drive through the Trossachs, featuring three picturesque lochs and abundant nature.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Three Lochs Forest Drive
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 7-mile gravel drive through the Trossachs, featuring three picturesque lochs and abundant nature.
"Great wee drive around beautiful scenery with hundreds of places to stop."

🚗 Drive Slowly & Safely
The gravel road requires a slow pace. Enjoy the scenery and watch for dust on sunny days.
💰 Payment Options
Entry is £3 per car, payable by cash or card. Meter may not always be working.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Loch Achray
Southern end of the drive
A picturesque loch offering stunning reflections and perfect spots for camping or a peaceful picnic.

Loch Drunkie
Mid-drive
Enjoy the serene waters and surrounding forests. Facilities like toilets are available here.

Lochan Reòidhte
Northern end of the drive
The smallest of the three lochs, offering a charming and tranquil stop amidst the trees.

Puck's Glen
Near the drive
A magical woodland walk with a mystical atmosphere, often compared to scenes from Twilight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Prepare for a Scenic, Unpaved Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Slowly & Safely
The gravel road requires a slow pace. Enjoy the scenery and watch for dust on sunny days.
💰 Payment Options
Entry is £3 per car, payable by cash or card. Meter may not always be working.
🍦 Ice Cream Stop
Don't miss the excellent ice cream shack near the end of the drive for a sweet treat!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
This drive is perfect for dogs! Many visitors bring their furry friends along for the adventure.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Slowly & Safely
The gravel road requires a slow pace. Enjoy the scenery and watch for dust on sunny days.
💰 Payment Options
Entry is £3 per car, payable by cash or card. Meter may not always be working.
🍦 Ice Cream Stop
Don't miss the excellent ice cream shack near the end of the drive for a sweet treat!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
This drive is perfect for dogs! Many visitors bring their furry friends along for the adventure.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Numerous stops offer fantastic views for photography. Capture the beauty of the lochs and forests.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Three Lochs Forest Drive for its stunning natural beauty and numerous stopping points, perfect for picnics and photography. The drive is generally well-maintained and accessible, with friendly staff at the ice cream shack. Some note potential deforestation impacting views and the dusty nature of the gravel road on dry days.
"Great wee drive around beautiful scenery. Should be £3 but the meter wasn't working so free. It's a dirt/gravel road so take your time. Hundreds of places to stop. Also an ice cream shack near the end which was excellent"
william prentice
"Beautiful place to go out for a sunny day barbecue and have fun with kids in the shore of lochs. Off course you can do a lot water activities like kayaking swimming etc. the place is kind of reserved and under forest preservation. The road is not good inside its raw so on sunny days its so dusty. Not that far from Glasgow. Bug usually busy if its sunny. Some places are nice to have camping."
Vikas Jain
"Nice drive around the three Lochs some great scenery and good places to stop and have a picnic also take photos, but i would visit soon as the veiw as you enter is spoiled by what looks like de-forestation, dont know how it will look in a couple of years time,shame."
davy.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Three Lochs Forest Drive is located near Aberfoyle in the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. It's approximately 50 minutes from Glasgow. You can access it by car, and it's a popular route for road trips and cycling.
The drive is on a gravel road, so while most cars can manage, it's best to drive slowly and cautiously. It's also a popular route for gravel cycling.
Vehicle access is typically daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, with the exit gate closing by 5 PM. It operates seasonally from March to October. Walking and cycling are permitted year-round.
Yes, there are numerous places to stop and park along the 7-mile drive, allowing you to explore the various viewpoints and walking trails.
Yes, campervans can use the drive, and there are designated spots for camping overnight with a permit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The vehicle access fee is typically £3 per car, payable by cash or card at the entrance. Sometimes the meter may not be working, making it free.
No, advance booking is generally not required for day visits. You pay the entry fee upon arrival. For camping, a permit is needed.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the entry fee is relatively low for the experience offered.
Vehicle access is seasonal, typically from March to October. However, walking and cycling are permitted year-round.
If you arrive after the vehicle gates close at 5 PM, you may still be able to access the area for walking or cycling, but driving access will be restricted until the next day.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The drive takes you past three beautiful lochs: Lochan Reòidhte, Loch Drunkie, and Loch Achray. There are also numerous walking trails, picnic spots, and scenic viewpoints.
Yes, there are many walking trails of varying lengths and difficulties along the drive, suitable for different fitness levels. Some are well-maintained and accessible.
Yes, toilet facilities are available at Loch Drunkie, and picnic benches are scattered throughout the drive, making it ideal for a day out.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy picnics, short walks, and the general beauty of nature. The ice cream shack is also a hit with kids.
While swimming and kayaking are possible in the lochs, it's important to be aware of local conditions and safety guidelines. The area is also under forest preservation.
🍽️ 🍦 Food & Dining
There's a highly-rated ice cream shack near the end of the drive that serves delicious treats. For full meals, consider visiting nearby Aberfoyle or Callander.
Yes, there are many designated picnic spots along the drive, and barbecues are permitted in some areas, though always check local regulations.
Nearby towns like Aberfoyle and Callander offer various cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Achray Farm is also a notable stop for food and meeting friendly locals.
Some nearby establishments, like the one mentioned in a reel, offer doggy menus, so it's worth checking if you're traveling with pets.
The ice cream shack is known for excellent ice cream and often serves other snacks like burgers and chips.
📸 📸 Photography
Every stop offers a unique photographic opportunity. Focus on the reflections in the lochs, the dense forests, and the changing light throughout the day.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
The areas around Loch Achray and Loch Drunkie are particularly scenic. Keep an eye out for pull-off points that offer unobstructed views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the sky and water.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park authority for current rules and restrictions before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots. Short, family-friendly walking trails are also available, offering opportunities for little legs to stretch and discover the forest. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it a stress-free outing for parents and children alike.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog on a lead where required, especially near wildlife or other visitors. Bring water and waste bags to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. The open spaces and natural environment make it an ideal adventure for your canine friends.
🚴 Cyclists
Cyclists can enjoy the same stunning views as drivers, with the added benefit of being fully immersed in the natural surroundings. The drive is open year-round for cycling, allowing you to experience its beauty in different seasons. Be prepared for varied terrain and enjoy the freedom of exploring on two wheels.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Three Lochs
This drive is more than just a scenic route; it's an invitation to explore. Numerous walking trails branch off from the drive, catering to various fitness levels. Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a more challenging hike, there are options to suit everyone. The presence of picnic benches and toilet facilities at key points, like Loch Drunkie, makes it an ideal destination for a family day out or a leisurely exploration.
Remember to drive slowly and enjoy the journey. The unpaved road means taking your time is essential, and on sunny days, be prepared for some dust. The £3 entry fee is a small price for the access to such natural beauty, and it contributes to the upkeep of this cherished area.
Camping and Overnight Stays
Campers will find designated pitches that offer a wild camping feel, yet with some structure. The scattered nature of these pitches ensures a sense of privacy and connection with the surrounding nature. It's a popular spot for those with tents and also suitable for those with campervans, providing a unique base for exploring the Trossachs.
Booking your camping permit in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. Always check the latest guidelines and regulations for camping in national parks to ensure a responsible and enjoyable stay.
Puck's Glen: A Fairytale Walk
The path through Puck's Glen is well-maintained, making it accessible for most visitors. The dense canopy creates a cool, shaded environment, perfect for a respite on a warm day. The sounds of nature, the dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves, and the sheer lushness of the greenery make this a highly recommended detour for anyone visiting the area.
Don't miss this magical spot if you have time. It's a short but incredibly rewarding walk that adds another layer of enchantment to your visit to the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.





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