Route closure from 10 May (Aberfoyle to Callander)

Sadly the serious disease Phytophthora ramorum (which affects 150 plant species including larch trees) has spread to Malling Forest, and a Statutory Health Protection Notice is enforcing essential felling work there, north of Aberfoyle, from 10 May for 4-6 weeks. The only feasible alternative to the Rob Roy Way is to follow Cycle Route 7 from Aberfoyle to Callander, adding up to 6 km to the distance. The shortcut shown above reduces the extra distance to just 2.5 km: follow Cycle Route 7 to the forest road junction at NN 539 037, then make a right-left dogleg to follow the forest road east, then north-east past a small lochan and Culnagreine to rejoin the Way at Invertrossachs (mile 17.4). Please don’t attempt to ignore the closure notices: the disease is an airborne contaminant and your boots or clothes could spread it. The closure is expected to last for 4-6 weeks and we will update you once it is lifted.