Glen Lyon has been described as Scotland’s longest, loneliest and loveliest glen.
Stretching for over 30 miles, it was once home to over 2,000 people. Today, the Glen’s residents number fewer than 100.
Follow the Fortingall Way to Fortingall village. Just after the village turn right on to the twisting single track road that runs through the glen. The road is initially hemmed in by high mountains and hugs the wooded banks of the River Lyon. Just after the four-arched Bridge of Lyon you’ll see a deep chasm known as MacGregor’s Leap where, in 1565, the chief of the Clan MacGregor reputedly escaped a group of pursuing Campbells.
The glen opens out towards the hamlets of Innerwick, where footpaths have been developed that lead to sensational views up and down the glen, and Bridge of Balgie, where there is a well-known tearoom and craft shop that have long been popular with walkers and cyclists.
From here, a road runs on for another 11 miles, ending at the huge dam of Loch Lyon, one of the most remote but most beautiful places in Scotland. Along the way you’ll pass Cashlie hydroelectric power station and another road leading off to brooding and isolated Loch an Daimh.
For a shorter journey, turn left at Bridge of Balgie and climb to over 1,500 feet before passing Lochan na Lairige from where you can join the footpath to the summit of Perthshire’s highest mountain.
From Ben Lawers descend down the steep road to Loch Tay and follow the A827 along the north shore back to Fearnan, Kenmore and Aberfeldy.