Loch Drunkie

Loch Drunkie is a small freshwater loch in the Trossachs of the Stirling council area, a few miles north of Aberfoyle in Scotland. It sits inside Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, ringed by conifer plantations and hills, and drains through the Drunkie Burn into Loch Venachar. It makes an easy, quiet outing without the crowds of the region's bigger lochs.

Where is Loch Drunkie?

The loch lies in the heart of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, on land managed by Forestry and Land Scotland, at roughly 56.209° N, 4.350° W. Aberfoyle is the nearest village with shops and food, and Callander lies further to the north-east.

How do you get there?

Take the A821, known as the Duke's Pass, out of Aberfoyle. About two miles beyond the village the Three Lochs Forest Drive begins, a forest road linking three lochs. The Loch Drunkie car park sits roughly halfway along it.

The road is open to vehicles from Easter to October, from 9am daily. The barriers are locked in the afternoon, so arrive early. A small toll applies, and the current price is best checked with Forestry and Land Scotland before you set off. Outside the season you can still walk or cycle the route.

What is there to see and do?

The main draw is the loop around the water, which starts at the car park. It runs about 1.5 to 2 km and takes around 45 minutes. The path follows the shore, then returns through woodland. The surface is mostly firm gravel with a few uneven stretches, long gentle climbs and some shorter steep sections. After heavy rain parts get wet, so wear proper footwear.

From the shore you look across to forested slopes. Birdlife and woodland wildlife are part of the appeal, and the stillness outside peak season is a real plus. The forest drive also connects Loch Drunkie with Loch Achray and Loch Venachar, so many visitors combine the lochs in one trip.

When should you visit?

Easter to October is the easiest window, when the Forest Drive is open to cars. Spring and early summer bring fresh greens, and autumn adds colour to the woods. Trossachs weather changes fast and often turns wet, so carry a waterproof whatever the forecast. On warm, still summer days midges can be a nuisance, so bring repellent.

Frequently asked questions

Is Loch Drunkie suitable for families?

Yes. The loop is short and moderate. Children manage it easily, though pushchairs may struggle on the uneven sections.

How long does the walk take?

About 45 minutes at a relaxed pace, including a few photo stops.

Do you have to pay to drive in?

The Three Lochs Forest Drive charges a fee in season. Forestry and Land Scotland publishes the current rate. On foot or by bike you can use the route at any time of year.

Are there toilets or shops on site?

The site is essentially a car park and a trail, so stock up on food and water in Aberfoyle, which has shops, cafes and places to stay.