Gartmorn Dam Country Park and The Devon Way

Distance	Approximate Time	Height Gain	OS Map
9.66 kms	03:00 (hrs:mins)	100 metres	Explorer 366: Stirling & Ochil Hills West

Description

At the southern foot of the scenic Ochil Hills lies Scotland's oldest artificial reservoir, dating from 1713 and much favoured by wildfowl. Winter visitors include whooper swans, greylag geese, pochard, teal and wigeon.

This flat and easy walk circumvents the reservoir, centrepiece of Gartmorn Dam Country Park, before joining part of The Devon Way along the course of a former railway track. For an optional short detour visit Sauchie Tower, a mediaeval tower house currently being surveyed with a view to restoration. The walk then re-enters Sauchie and passes the Mansefield Arms public house before returning to the country park.

Access Info

From the A908 in Sauchie, just north of Alloa, look out for the brown tourist sign to Gartmorn Dam Country Park. Drive along Gartmorn Road to its end and pass through gates to the car park at map ref NS 891940, adjacent to the visitor centre. Buses run from Alloa to Sauchie. If coming by bus, it is suggested you start and end your walk at the Mansefield Arms at Waymark 24.

The Park gates are open from 8.30am until dusk every day and the visitor centre is open until 7.00pm from April to September.

Additional Info

The notice on the door of the bird hide at Waymark 09 states that the key is available from the visitor centre from April to September, every day from 9am to 8pm; and weekends only from October to March, 1 to 4pm. Information for Wheelchair Users: parts of this walk may be suitable for wheelchairs, notably the circuit of the reservoir (with certain deviations to avoid steps) and The Devon Way between Waymarks 19 and 24. Information for Dog Owners: the walk is suitable for biddable dogs.