Three Lochs Way: Helensburgh to Garelochhead

Route Description for Three Lochs Way: Helensburgh to Garelochhead

Three Lochs Way: Helensburgh to Garelochhead invites you to complete the second section of one of Scotland’s Great Trails, known as the Three Lochs Way. The waymarked path features stunning scenery with gently undulating hills along minor roads and tracks. You can expect a few boggy sections along the way, but nothing that waterproof footwear can’t solve. If choosing to complete this walking in sections over several days, walkers can opt to stay at Rowanbrae Cottage B&B or another cozy accommodation in Garelochhead before proceeding with section three.

To begin the walk, leave Sinclair Street by turning left onto Munro Drive and heading uphill. A right turn onto Upper Colquhoun Street has you continuing uphill towards the fine masterpiece of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, known as Hill House. The trail then enters pretty woodlands, which you’ll continue through, crossing several footbridges and enjoying lovely views over the Firth of Clyde and out towards Greenock. You’ll soon pass through a gate that opens to wide-open pastures before continuing the trail through the Glen Fruin. A road soon leads uphill, granting you incredible views back over the glen as you continue, soon joining the military road. Keep your eyes peeled for the Three Lochs Way marker, which will lead you down to Garelochhead, where this section of the walk ends. If you wish to join this section with the third section (Garelochhead to Arrochar/Tarbet), continue straight on the path instead of crossing the fence and turning left to head downhill. To return to Helensburgh after completing this section, you can take a train or a bus following the walk.