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Leacainn Forest Drive (closed)


(Average user rating4 unrated 4/5)

About Leacainn Forest Drive

Please note that due to recent storm damage the Forest Drive is closed. We will notify you as soon as we can when it is to re-open. Sorry for the inconvenience.

From Loch Fyne to Loch Awe - the Leacainn (sloping hillside) Forest Drive will take you from farmland to wild moor, from sea to hill loch and through woodland, inviting you as you go to enjoy spectacular views of Ben Cruachan.

Access the drive from Auchindrain museum or Ardray in Eredine wood, east Loch Awe. The route can be travelled in about one hour but why rush? There are lay-bys and picnic sites along the way.

Abhainn a Bhealaich Deer Trail

This is is a short, rough woodland walk that follows a route established by the local deer population.

The rich variety of plants, trees and wildlife, coupled with the ever changing water levels in the burn flowing past towards Loch Awe, make this a trail to be experienced again and again.

As this is not a constructed footpath the ground condition is variable - sturdy footwear is required.

Loch Sidheannach Wildlife Hide

Discover the hidden wildlife of this hill loch. Throughout the year the diverse array of species on the loch is ever changing.

High above the water look for swooping golden eagles and osprey in search of waterfowl and fish. Butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies can be seen fluttering around the loch side plants. Gliding teal and mallard ducks feed throughout the day.

Open Easter to the October holidays, the route is part of a working forest so please take note of any signs along the way and keep an eye out for timber lorries and other road users.

How to get there:

Leacainn Forest Drive can be started from Auchindrain in Brenchoillie which is part of East Loch Awe. Inveraray and Furnace are the nearest towns or villages.

From Glasgow, follow the A82 to Tarbet then the A83 through Inveraray to Auchindrain museum.

From Lochgilphead, follow the A83 south to Auchindrain museum.

OS Grid Reference: NN021052
For details of public transport visit http://www.travelinescotland.com

Wildlife

Mammals: We have information about Red squirrel and Red deer

Birds: We have information about Golden eagle, Black grouse and Osprey

VIEW OF LOCH AWE FROM TOWER ROAD VIEWPOINT

Auchindrain Facilities.
InformationParkingOther Facilities
Grade of trail:
Trail waymarking:
Length of trail:
12.5 miles
Approximate time of trail:
1 hour (by car)
Open or closed:
closed The forest drive is open annually between the 1st April and the 31st October.
Click here to find out what else you can do in this forest.

Contact:

Joanne Maclean

01546 602518
e-mail: joanne.maclean@forestry.gsi.gov.uk

User Comments

4 Stars 4 Stars

Drove up in an ordinary car to the Hide car park last Saturday the road has not too many ruts. views fantastic the keyhole standing stone intriguing i must return again

Waulker, 15/May/2011
4 Stars 4 Stars

Came across the drive by chance and was surprised that I never saw another vehicle on the whole route, maybe because it was a Sunday! Saw a deer and a Fox but not much else however the views were great. It can be done in an ordinary average car like I did. Stopped at the hide but never saw anything. I reckon I would do it again when I'm next in Argyll but take more time.

Norrie, 17/Jul/2010
4 Stars 4 Stars

Nice views. I did it on a scooter! Who needs a GS1200. An ideal route for pretending you are on a round the world adventure. If you are 88 or 8 years old or 33 going on 8 years old its smashing. The wee Wildlife hide is great too.

iain, 24/May/2010
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