Explore the Outdoors
Walking
There are so many walks to choose from, ranging from light strolls to more strenuous climbs, all against a backdrop of breathtaking mountain scenery and spectacular waterfalls. Callander truely is a walker’s paradise. Ben Ledi a dramatic Corbett towers over the town and provides a stunning outlook.
You can climb The Crags directly from Callander. Here you will be rewarded with a panorama reaching as far as Stirling, the Ochils Hills and the Pentland Hills over Edinburgh.
Other Areas include a section of the famous West Highland Way from Crianlarich to Tyndrum and on to Bridge of Orchy. The Rob Roy Way and 22 Munros are in this stunning area. Or enjoy a walk around nearby unmissable Loch Katrine, ideal for families. See the family fun section for more details.
There are guides and Ordanance Survey Maps in the house or try this fantastic website http://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/lochlomond/
Golfing
Golfing in Scotland has, for many years, been unrivalled for its scenic splendour and Callander Golf Club, nestled above the town on it’s northern hillside, certainly lives up to this reputation.
Callander Golf Course is walking distance from Calasraid.
With other Golf courses such as Aberfoyle, Killin, Dunblane and the world famous Gleneagles all within easy driving distance, Callander is a must stay to enjoy fulfilling golf breaks in Central Scotland.
To book a tee time at Callander Golf Club please contact the pro shop on 01877 330975
Fishing
Callander and the Trossachs offer superb fishing opportunities.
There are numerous brown trout lochs which are restocked daily. Pike fishing is available on Loch Venachar and one or two other local lochs.
The Local Rivers Leny, Dochart and Teith provide excellent Salmon and Brown Trout fishing. Local Fishing Shop James Bayne provides everything you need to fish whether you are a novice or pro.
To contact James Bayne and enquire about tackle and equipment requirements, or for local permits on many lochs and rivers in the Trossachs area call 01877 330218
Cycling
Mountain biking and cycling in the Trossachs is a great way of seeing the best of the scenery in this part of Scotland. Cycling from Callander will suit all tastes and all levels of fitness.
The cycle track at Loch Katrine offers glorious scenic beauty while the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park has Britain’s largest network of off-road cycle tracks.
The relatively safe, quiet roads off the main routes offer more leisurely family cycling.
Bikes can be hired on an hourly or daily basis from several cycling centres, two of which are in Callander, and one at Loch Katrine in the heart of the Trossachs.
Call Scotlands Wheels Cycling Centre on 01877 331100 or Cycle Hire Callander on 01877 331052
Watersports
With so much water around Callander and the Trossachs, there is ample scope for almost every water sport you could imagine.
A river journey is one of the best ways to experience the rural areas and natural environments of any country. These pleasures are complicated by an even greater thrill; running through powerful, fast flowing rapids.
Gocountry provide a full range of outdoor activities to suit all ages and interests. Based on Loch Ard among other activities they offer a waterpark and canoeing. Tel: 01877 387750 or http://gocountry.co.uk/
Loch Lomond is but a short drive away, where a jet ski will surely get your heart rate going. A speedboat is undoubtedly the most memorable and exciting way to experience Loch Lomond. Cruising around the many islands and much faster in the open waters, everyone will enjoy the magnificent scenery.
For further details call 079373354707 or go to http://www.lochlomond-scotland.com/
Horse Riding
The terrain in this part of Scotland offers everything from the easiest of gentle rides for the complete novice to the more demanding treks over some of the moors and mountain slopes. It is often said that the best way to enjoy the scenery is on foot - many who have tried pony trekking in Scotland would disagree!
The spectacular scenery of this area offers a splendid backdrop for treks and specific suggestions are the quiet country lanes and rolling hills in the lower lying areas of the southern Trossachs, shady trails to be found throughout Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, and the mountain trails in the north for the more experienced.
Recommended centres in this area are:
Rednock Farm Trekking Centre
Telephone 01877 385276 or mobile 07801699497 for full information regarding times available, facilities, prices and to make a booking.
Shooting
From Grouse to Partridge – White hare to Rabbits, Driven Pheasant, Pigeon Shooting, Driven Duck, Ptarmigan Goose and Duck flighting – or a mixture! And stalking – choose from Red Stag, Roebuck, Sika, Fallow and even Wild Goat. You can shoot (animals only) in Scotland 365 days a year. There are literally tens of thousands of acres of excellent field sport opportunities.