The Trossachs trail is an area of Scotland, which stretches more or less from Stirling to the boundaries of Scotland's new National Park in Loch Lomond. It combines an area of outstanding natural beauty with easy road access and its central location makes it a great base for exploring Scotland. Aberfoyle is one of its main towns (the other being Callander) and even this is not a particularly large place. It is also the kind of place, which if you go in Winter or early Spring you would think that it was "shut".

It is true that many of the shops close over the Wintertime but it main attraction (the scenery) is open all year. Compare this to the Summer and the small town is particularly busy, as it is a favourite stop for those on a coach tour holiday or even day-trippers. Most commonly they will head for the Scottish Wool Centre which is open all year round and is has a wide variety of goods and services on offer. Aberfoyle is the starting point for many cycle trips, walks and plays host to the Trossachs Visitor centre which, whilst small, is definitely worth a visit.

Whilst in Aberfoyle most people will normally follow the road which will take them to Brig "o" Turk and Callander but you should also consider the road which takes you down to Stronachlachar. The road is not the best, but once you have arrived the most amazing scenery you could hope for will greet you. Pictures can't really do it justice (I've tried of course) but it must be seen to be believed.

If you don't fancy the drive down you could also take a cruise down Loch Katrine ensuring that you don't get stranded at one end of the loch, as I once did. It is a long walk back (about 14 miles)!!

If Stronachlacher doesn't appeal if you do take the road rounds to Callander then you will pass the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park which is another attraction worth a visit. It has a variety of walks suitable for most ages and abilities and also has some exhibits highlighting interesting facts about the area. Once you have been educated about the natural heritage of the area you could finish the day/morning afternoon with a visit to Callander.

Similar to Aberfoyle, this is not a big town (although slightly bigger than Aberfoyle) and you probably couldn't spend too much time there. It is however well worth a visit, even for a refreshment break at one of the many tea-rooms on the main street.

The Trossachs is not a densely populated area and as such, unless you are interested in the natural scenery doesn't offer much to keep young ones amused. However you could easily combine it with a trip to Stirling which can offer attractions to suit most tastes.