Intro
The old Stoneymollan Road is part of the Three Lochs Way and links Loch Lomond with the Firth of Clyde (and vice-versa). The Stoneymollan Road is a former coffin road that runs from Balloch to the burial ground at St Mahew’s Chapel in the hamlet of Kirkton, not far from Cardross. The walk from Waters Edge Cottage over Stoneymollan to Cardross is approximately 10km with a moderate incline, taking approx 3hrs.
Getting started…
Starting out from Waters Edge Cottage, pass Duck Bay and Cameron House onto Old Luss Road. Continue along the road passing Lomond Shores on your left and the ruins of Woodhall House in parkland on the right. A Scottish Rights of Way and Access Society signpost at Lower Stoneymollan Road indicates a Public Footpath to Cardross.
Go up this tarmac road up past Drumkinnon Farm and Glendale Kennels and cross a footbridge over the new A82 bypass, to gain an access road. Ascend through woodland, still signposted Cardross, enjoying fine views across to Balloch Castle and Loch Lomond. At the highest house, the road ends at an access gate from where a track and firm, rocky footpath lead out onto the moor.
Amazing Loch Lomond views
The track goes upwards and the higher the track, especially atop Stoneymollan Muir, the better the views back over Loch Lomond. When you reach the highest point a spectacular panorama opens up westwards, over towards Cowal and, if you’re lucky with the weather, sometimes even as far as Arran. There is a tremendous sense of space and openness on this track: a real sense of freedom.
Going back in time
Then it’s downhill all the way to St Mahew’s Chapel in Kirkton. This lovely old building was restored in the 1950s, but its history goes back to at least 1467, and it’s possible that there may have been a Christian missionary building on this site from the early sixth century onwards. For almost two centuries the building served as a school prior to its restoration, but the site was one that had long been held sacred and is so again today.
Refreshments along the way
When you reach Cardross at the end of the walk you can enjoy a pub lunch and refreshment at The Cardross Inn before taking the bus or train back to Balloch. Alternatively, you can take the bus or train to Cardross and walk the route from Cardross to Balloch (ie west to east and sometimes easier in the prevailing westerly wind). When taking the train to/from Cardross change at Dalreoch station and don’t forget to check the timetable!
Finally
Some guests have ventured up to the top of Stoneymollan to watch the sunrise and have encountered some deer and other wildlife along the way. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos for us along the way and post them to our Facebook and Instagram pages, you’ll find us @watersedgecottage.co.uk
