THIS short route offers a good opportunity for all members of the family to start the new year together with a walk.
The Ochil Hills are less frequented than many other areas of Scotland's countryside but that does not mean they are without merit. The wide, sweeping glens and rounded tops are a place of peace and quiet, as well as beauty – a perfect escape.
This
walk is all on metalled roads (although not public, so virtually free of traffic) and can be completed by all ages and abilities. Pushchairs are fine the whole way – although there is one long, steep section.
As with any family outing, it is not just the activity but the whole day, or half day, that counts, and with some remarkable restaurants in the area, there is a great opportunity to enjoy a drink and a meal in wonderful surroundings afterwards.
Distance 4.5 miles.
Height climbed 250ft.
Time 2 to 2.5 hours.
Map OS Landranger 58.
Park Drive five miles north from the A91 on the A823 and turn left at a sign for Frandy Fishery. Park on the left about 100 yards after a cattle grid.
Walk Continue along the narrow road as it drops down to follow the River Devon upstream until you reach the scattered buildings of Frandy.
The road turns left, over the river, just before the grassed dam wall of Lower Glendevon Reservoir. Follow the road uphill, as it swings left then round to the right, to reach the top of the dam wall.
Continue along the road as it follows the reservoir and climbs steeply, before levelling off and reaching the dam wall of Upper Glendevon Reservoir.
A locked gate bars the way to a wide walkway along the top of the dam, but the views are nevertheless worth the legwork. Retrace your steps to the car park.
Refreshments The Tormaukin in Glendevon, south along the A823, is a traditional country inn. For sumptuous refreshment, go north along the A823 to reach the world-famous Gleneagles.
While you are in the area Castle Campbell, standing at the top of Dollar Glen, is a picturesque spot. The 15th-century fortress (closed Thursdays and Fridays until April 1) is now in the care of Historic Scotland (
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk).
The full article contains 390 words and appears in Scotland On Sunday newspaper.
