Family Adventures in the Trossachs: Top Activities Near Old Smiddy Cottage

Welcome to the Trossachs— rolling hills meet loch-side picnics, and where a charming stay at Old Smiddy Cottage becomes the backdrop to unforgettable family holidays in Scotland.

Directly on the breathtaking banks of Loch Katrine, our cozy, characterful cottage is the perfect base for exploring all the family-friendly gems this glorious corner of the Highlands has to offer.

Whether you’re raising little explorers or teenage thrill-seekers, there’s something for every age and energy level nearby. Here are some of our favourite Trossachs activities to enjoy with your clan.

Cycle the Shores of Loch Katrine

Nothing beats the Loch Katrine cycle path for family adventure. Hire bikes (or e-bikes, if you fancy a boost!) at Trossachs Pier and enjoy a mostly traffic-free trail that hugs the loch’s edge. The views are postcard-perfect and there are plenty of picnic spots to break up the ride. Don’t forget snacks—and maybe a thermos of hot chocolate!

Tip: For wee ones or those who tire easily, hop on the historic SS Sir Walter Scott steamship, bring the bikes aboard, and cycle back along the trail at your own pace. A perfect blend of adventure and ease.

Gentle Kayaking on Loch Ard

For a splash of fun, head 15 minutes west to Loch Ard, a calm and sheltered loch ideal for families trying out kayaking, paddleboarding or canoeing for the first time. Equipment hire and short guided sessions are available nearby.

It’s the kind of activity that makes you forget about screens and schedules—and lets the kids feel like real explorers (pirate voices optional but encouraged).

Stirling Castle – A Royal Day Out

Just under an hour’s scenic drive from Old Smiddy Cottage, Stirling Castle is a top pick for a rainy-day adventure. History comes to life with interactive exhibits, costumed characters, and plenty of nooks for children to explore.

Even the most TikTok-obsessed teen can’t help but be impressed by the grandeur of Scotland’s royal past.

Woodland Walks & Wildlife Trails

Step right outside the cottage and you’ll find trails winding through Queen Elizabeth Forest Park—perfect for nature-spotting, den-building, or a family game of ‘who can find the weirdest-shaped tree’. (Spoiler: there are some strong contenders.)

Pop by the Lodge Forest Visitor Centre in Aberfoyle for walking routes and interactive exhibits. There’s also a café with cake—need we say more?

Local Treats in Callander

After all that adventuring, head into Callander (just 20 minutes away) for a scoop or two of locally made ice cream, charming gift shops, and hearty Highland fare. It’s a great spot to refuel, rest, and browse.

There’s even a small play park by the river, perfect for post-lunch energy bursts.

Why Families Love Staying at Old Smiddy Cottage

Let’s be honest—family holidays in Scotland need a comfy, flexible base. We’ve hosted everyone from toddlers taking their first hike to grandparents rediscovering the joy of a good board game. Whoever’s in your tribe, we’d love to welcome you. At Old Smiddy Cottage, you’ll find:

A log burner for chilly nights (and marshmallow roasting!)

A well-equipped kitchen for cooking up feasts

Plenty of outdoor space for running wild or sipping wine while they do

A hot tub and sauna with a stunning view!

Planning Your Trossachs Family Getaway

The Trossachs are beautiful in every season—from golden autumn walks to summer swims in the lochs. Whether you’re booking a holiday cottage for families or planning a last-minute long weekend, Old Smiddy Cottage is ready to host your Highland adventures.

Have questions about the area, need baby gear, or fancy surprising your partner with a bottle of something local on arrival? Just drop us a note—we’re happy to help!

For the best possible price, book directly by sending us a message, or alternatively, book through Airbnb. See you soon!

Have questions about the area, need baby gear, or fancy surprising your partner with a bottle of something local on arrival? Just drop us a note—we’re happy to help!

For the best possible price, book directly by sending us a message, or alternatively, book through Airbnb. See you soon!

A beautifully situated cottage for an idyllic Scottish getaway break nestled amongst snowcapped mountains (we went in February) right by the Loch. You can cosy up with a good book by the roaring log burner. A lovely little tearoom is a short walk away. Right from the doorstep you feel you have the freedom to roam on beautiful walks.

We stayed at the old smiddy cottage September 22, absolutely beautiful cottage, perfect getaway with amazing views, cottage stunning. More than adequate comforts. Remote but not totally isolated. The pier cafe does an amazing breakfast and so friendly. Just loved loved it here. Went for a walk and picked some beautiful flowers to send out in the loch for my son who I lost in 2018 and my partners father who we also sadly lost. Could not believe the beautiful rainbow we witnessed shortly after doing this .

We had a wonderfully peaceful time here. Fantastic location, a well equipped cottage and helpful hosts. Thoroughly recommend.

A wonderful location, and a gorgeous little cottage owned by very lovely people!

Such a Lovely place! Great location was the perfect place to stay for a special occasion! We would love to return one day!

The Old Smiddy Cottage’s location is perfect, waking up to the beautiful view of Loch Katrine, and the hills surrounding it is a great way to start your day. The cottage is very clean and comfortable, it has everything you need for your time away. The beds are great, the kitchen is fully equipped, and the best view from a shower I’ve ever experienced. The brand new hot tub and sauna are a fantastic addition, you could spend hours just sitting looking out at the loch. We had a great time, and would highly recommend booking this cottage.

Loch Katrine is one of the largest lochs in the Trossachs at almost 9 miles long and is owned by Scottish Water as the primary water supply to Glasgow.

It’s name is thought to come from the “caterans” or cattle rustlers that once inhabited the Trossachs, the most notorious of whom was Rob Roy MacGregor. His birthplace in 1671 was Glen Gyle at the western end of Loch Katrine.

This famous Scottish folk hero and outlaw was a multi talented man, also a great swordsman and soldier and who later settled down and became a successful businessman. After an unfortunate incident He was declared an outlaw which began his campaign of harassment against the Duke of Montrose even imprisoning the Dukes factor on an island. Factors Island can be seen from Stronachlachar. MacGregor died a pardoned man in 1734 at Balquhidder.

Loch Katrine is also famous for its association with Sir Walter Scott and his poem The Lady of the Lake. Today a steamship named the Sir Walter Scott provides pleasure cruises and a ferry service on Loch Katrine between Trossachs Pier and Stronachlachar.

Queen Victoria opened this water supply to Glasgow in 1859 and Scottish Water as the owners of Loch Katrine ensure the purity, tranquility and beauty by prohibiting certain activities. Fossil fuelled engines and bait/bank fishing are therefore not permitted.

Loch Katrine is a beautiful destination to enjoy an abundance of outdoor activities.