THIS column is dedicated to walking and ramblers' groups from across Scotland, where they can suggest the best routes to enjoy. See the panel at the end of this story if you want to get involved.
Bishop's Glen Circular, Dunoon, Argyll
By John McIndoe and Thomas Jones, Inverclyde Ramblers
Start: Nelson Street, Dunoon.
Distance: 2 miles/3.2 km.
Time: 1.5-2 hours.
Terrain: A scenic reservoir and woodland walk along well-established paths and trails.
Level: An easy walk suitable for everyone.
Access: Bishop's Glen is situated on the hillside above Dunoon. A peaceful beauty spot with a scenic circular walk. The main entrance is at Nelson Street, Dunoon (postcode: PA23 7EP) with car parking available. Alternatively, if travelling from the south side of the River Clyde, take the train to Gourock Pier and board the CalMac ferry for a great wee cruise to Dunoon.
From the Dunoon ferry terminal turn left and stroll along the Promenade. Turn right at the Jane Street Lane and follow uphill to the main junction. Then turn left on to Auchamore Road. At the road end, follow the signs to Bishop's Glen on Nelson Street. It's about one mile from the ferry terminal to the glen.
What makes it so special: History, nature and a fantastic walking location year-round.
BISHOP'S Glen Reservoir was built in 1880 as the main source of drinking water for Dunoon. Nowadays drinking water is provided from Loch Eck and the Bishop's Glen reservoir is a popular fishing spot, stocked with rainbow trout by the local angling club.
There is evidence that in the 15th century the Episcopal Bishop of Argyll was based in Dunoon. The hill above Bishop's Glen is known as the Bishop's Seat (1,654 ft) and the butt of many jokes! It is a great hill walk but we will leave that one to Cameron McNeish.
Route: From the Nelson Street entrance follow the tarmac road uphill to the picnic site that overlooks the reservoir. Continue along a well-surfaced track that meanders under a mature canopy of trees including Scots pine and sitka spruce, which provide great shelter on rainy days.
Keep your eyes peeled for any stripped pinecones or split hazelnuts – both are signs of the resident red squirrels. Look high up in the trees for their nests/dreys. Red squirrels do not hibernate and can be seen in the glen throughout the year.
Further along the path there is another sheltered picnic site which overlooks a raised shingle bed and is an ideal spot to skim some pebbles across the water – but not if there is an angler nearby. There is a network of side paths throughout the glen which provide a wide range of scenic routes to explore.
READ MORE: Best walks in Scotland: Blawhorn Moss, West Lothian
READ MORE: Best walks in Scotland: The Dunnet Forest Circular, Caithness
Continue along the main path over the metal bridge which crosses the tumbling Balgaidh Burn. The main path winds downhill to a roaring waterfall at the reservoir outflow.
Cross the metal bridge, maybe try a game of Poohsticks – they move fast! Follow the path to return to the glen entrance and the end of the walk.
Don't miss: Enjoy an ice cream cone from the Rock Cafe or Boat House Cafe on the Promenade. Make time for a stroll along the bustling main street with its eclectic mix of shops and pop in for a coffee at the new DBH Art Centre (Dunoon Burgh Hall). A visit to the family-friendly Castle House Museum is highly recommended.
Useful information: To view the current walks programme for Inverclyde Ramblers, visit: inverclyderamblers.org.uk/programme/
Non-members can call the walk leader to book (details listed on each walk). Everyone can try out three introductory walks prior to joining, then annual membership is £36.60 for individuals or £49 for couples.
READ MORE: Best walks in Scotland: Newark Castle to Finlaystone Burn, Inverclyde
READ MORE: Best walks in Scotland: Glencoe Lochan, Lochaber
Families are welcome. Children under 18 can join a walk for free with their parent, grandparent or guardian.
Do you have a walk you would like to suggest? Email susan.swarbrick@theherald.co.uk
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