Perthshire - Loch Leven Nature Reserve (Loch Leven Heritage Trail)

by Eva McCracken

I first discovered this trail when Tracks invited me to a public consultation. At that time none of the access points were linked. After much discussion and negotiation with SNH and landowners I'm delighted to say 13 km approx... are now fully accessible to all wheels. It is their hope to extend the path around the loch and eventually to provide 20k of accessible path, perhaps by 2012. There is a delightful and informative leaflet available Tourist Information Centre (01577 863680). Recent improvements at Findatie allows for safer and easier access on to the resurfaced Heritage Trail path at the SE end. It is here that Loch Leven Lodges have built a new reception area including a coffee shop and an accessible toilet. Free hire of 3 robust scooters, Invacare "Auriga". (details below)

"LOCH LEVEN IS A SPARKLING JEWEL SURROUNDED BY ROLLING HILLS AND FERTILE FARM LAND. IT BRIMS WITH NATURAL BEAUTY, WILDLIFE AND HISTORY." (unknown)

This trail is a real treat for bird lovers. I am not a twitcher and confess that my knowledge of birds is very poor which I put down to having been city born. However, even I can spot swans, cygnets and geese particularly when only 10m in front of me with a clear view from the fully accessible hides between Kinross and Burleigh Sands. Members of RSPB will know, I'm sure, of Vane Farm on the south side of Loch Leven. Unfortunately although this trail leads to Vane Farm it is via a tunnel with 39 steps. So if you want to visit this RSPB facility you will need to get there by car.

Further information from:
Perth & Kinross Countryside Ranger Service Tel: 01738 475000
Web: www.pkc.gov.uk/countryside

Trail Scooter Hire
The Boathouse Bistro, Kinross (01577 865386) Scooters when open
  OPEN: April to October 8.30am - 6.00pm

Loch Leven's Larder - 01592 841000 Scooters (3)
  OPEN: ALL YEAR

Loch Leven Lodges - 01592 841144 Scooters: Invacare Auriga (3)
  OPEN: ALL YEAR

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