Tyndrum & Bridge of Orchy
Scotland's Adventure CoastTyndrum is a small, bustling village situated 5 miles north of Crianlarich in the heart of the hillwalking country around Glen Lochy. It is in an ideal location for exploring and touring the surrounding area, offering a range of outdoor activities, including walking, climbing, skiing, and many other opportunities for sightseeing.
Weekend Getaways and Walking Holidays
On the edge of Argyll and the gateway to Glen Coe and the Highlands. Come stay a while on the West Highland Way
Good to Know!
Built near a Battlefield
In 1306AD, the Clan MacDougall defeated Robert the Bruce in the 'Battle of Dalrigh', which took place near where we now find Tyndrum. Legend has it that the King threw his heavy sword into a small loch to escape the battle more swiftly.
Tyndrum's Golden Origin
The village of Tyndrum dates back to the 1740s, when lead mining and the convergence of old drover routes led to the formation of the small village. The area also experienced a gold rush in the early nineteenth century, with the Cononish gold mine near Tyndrum only ceasing operations in 2023.
The development of the railway, which you can still ride today, brought further expansion to the village. Tyndrum remains the smallest settlement in the UK with more than one railway station!
Explore the 'High Country'
Walks in Tyndrum
Located in 'The High Country', characterised by long glens and the surrounding open upland hills, there are plenty of fantastic walks near Tyndrum.
One of the most iconic walks, besides the West Highland Way, is the trek up to Ben Lui (3,710ft), regarded as one of the grandest mountains in the Southern Highlands. It is a challenging walk, which rewards you with incredible panoramic vistas over Loch Lomond and the surrounding hills.
For Munro Baggers, there's the option to bag four Munros in one go, during an epic 15-mile loop trek, featuring Ben Lui (3,710ft), Ben Oss (3,376 ft), Beinn Dubhchraig (3,209 ft) and Beinn a'Chleibh (3,005ft).
Rest Up in Tyndrum
With the West Highland Way passing through Tyndrum, it's a popular rest stop for tens of thousands who travel this route each year. The iconic 'The Green Welly' stop is popular with walkers and road users alike, but there are many other restaurants and shops to recharge for your next adventure.
Camping in Tyndrum
There are a few holiday parks and campsites located in and around Tyndrum, so stay a while and enjoy these landscapes!
Bridge of Orchy
The small village of Bridge of Orchy is located only a short drive on the A82 north of Tyndrum. It's an excellent spot for visitors seeking a quieter escape whilst exploring famous Highland destinations such as Glen Coe and Rannoch Moor. Glenorchy Farm makes for the perfect base for your adventure!
Walks in Bridge of Orchy
The most popular hillwalk from Bridge of Orchy features the two Munros Beinn Dòrain (3,524ft) and Beinn an Dothaidh (3,267ft). Beinn Dòrain is one of the most instantly recognisable Munros with a huge conical peak that dominates the landscape. It's a challenging hillwalk and proper footwear is highly recommended.
Canoing & White Water Rafting
The River Orchy is known for its strong currents and, therefore, is a very popular route among canoeists and white-water rafters. The Bridge of Orchy makes a great stop while travelling down the river to recharge and refuel. Pass under the delightful stone bridge over the River Orchy, which dates back to the time of the Jacobite risings in the 18th century.
Have a Picnic
For those seeking a quieter adventure, the riverside picnic area is the perfect spot! Pack some sandwiches and enjoy the views of the surrounding Munros.
How to get to Tyndrum & Bridge of Orchy
By Car
The traditional route from Glasgow is by car via the A82, passing through the old drover settlements of Ardlui and Inverarnan at the very north of Loch Lomond, which are both very popular with West Highland Way walkers.
By Train
The world-famous West Highland Line stops at both Tyndrum and Bridge of Orchy. Board in Glasgow and enjoy the scenery of the Clyde Sea Lochs, Loch Lomond and the Arrochar Alps during your journey.
The West Highland Way splits in Tyndrum, taking you either to Fort William or Oban. It's only a short walk from Tyndrum Lower station (on the Oban line) to Tyndrum Upper (on the Fort William line).
Looking for more inspiration?
Head to our blogs for more information about things to see & do in Argyll.
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