The temperature might be dropping but that doesn't mean it is time to hibernate.
For an up-close look at the changing of the seasons in all their majestic glory, Suzanne McCall's advice is to get on horseback.
Since June she has been taking small groups out on pony-trekking trips up to the moorland surrounding Balloch. Whatever the weather, the views are magnificent. A gentle hack along part of the John Muir Way, a public footpath that stretches from Dunbar to Helensburgh, takes horses and riders above the treeline to drink in panoramic vistas of Loch Lomond and the surrounding hills.
Look down to the islands of Inchmurrin and Inchmoan on the loch and across to Ben Lomond and Conic Hill. On a clear day you can see as far as the Campsies. Don't forget to keep an eye out for a sighting of the seaplane taking off and landing.
The treks start from the family farm belonging to McCall's parents, tucked behind Balloch, and follow routes she first trotted along as a young girl.
"I used to ride up and down there all the time when I was a wee girl but I never really appreciated what it was like," she says. "When I was younger I did a lot of competing, from show jumping to cross country and dressage, and my mum bred horses, so you could say it is in the blood. I love going out every day. It's so peaceful up there and I find it very therapeutic being on the back of a horse."
The economic development officer turned pony trekking leader has four horses and keeps groups small to make it a more enjoyable experience for everyone. In fact, her pony treks have become mini sightseeing trips for tourists, some of whom have come from as far away as Australia and South Africa and never seen such stunning countryside.
"It is so beautiful. There can be a bit of wildlife up there - we've seen deer, buzzards and pheasants," says McCall. "I've been trekking all summer and for me it's great because depending on the time of day or the weather I always get a different perspective on the loch. Just now when the seasons are changing the colours are particularly lovely. It is very natural moorland so it has a lot of ferns changing from green to rust."
The treks take riders aged 12 years and upwards, and trekkers need not have any experience of horses. It is not about careering across the country, says McCall, but taking in the views at a leisurely pace. Treks cost £45 per person, including use of a riding hat, and waterproofs are available for rainy days.
Pony trekking is offered at Cameron House, Loch Lomond, Alexandria. Book at 01389 755565 or www.cameronhouse.co.uk or visit www.lomond-ponytreks.co.uk
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