Duncryne Hill, East Lomondside
| Distance | Approximate Time | Height Gain | OS Map |
| 1 kms | 00:15 (hrs:mins) | 80 metres | Explorer 347: Loch Lomond South |
Description
Duncryne Hill, sometimes known as 'The Dumpling' is a volcanic plug, situated just off the A811 near Gartocharn. At 460 feet/142 metres its near-perfect cone rises abruptly from the surrounding countryside and despite its lack of altitude it provides dramatic views across towards Inchmurrin and the other islands in Loch Lomond - regarded by many as one of the best views in Central Scotland. This walk is a short steep ascent and the rewards are well worth the minimal effort - remember to take your camera.
Start at a lay-by off a minor road about 500 metres south-west of Gartocharn at grid reference 433 856. If the lay-by is already full then park in Gartocharn and walk the 500 metres or so down the minor road to the stile. Please don't park on verges or in front of gates as farmers may need access to fields. From the layby, climb over the stile and walk through a short stretch of woodland to a kissing gate. Pass through the gate and follow the path straight to the top of the hill. Return by the outward route.
From the summit you can look westwards to the Clyde Estuary and the hills of Cowal: northwards to the Cobbler, Ben Vorlich and, dominating the middle ground, Ben Lomond: beyond that, the Munros of Stob Binnein and Ben More raise their heads on the horizon: and, eastwards, the Campsie Fells and, in the distance, Ochil Hills, practically on the other side of Scotland. But it is the view of Loch Lomond that is most spectacular. Broad, island-studded and pastoral in the foreground, it gradually narrows, hemmed in by ever-steeper slopes, as it recedes.
Access Info
Travel along the A811 to Gartocharn. Take a minor road from the middle of the village south east for about 500 metres before parking in a lay-by. If the lay-by is full you will need to park in Gartocharn and walk the distance down the minor road to the starting point.
Additional Info
Duncryne hill is the remains of a long-extinct volcano, its summit rising abruptly from the surrounding land to the modest height of 142m. Facilities are available in nearby Gartocharn. Loch Lomond is Britain's largest expanse of freshwater and hosts many different species of wildlife in the surrounding area including butterflies, warblers and grouse.
