The Trossachs Trail

I was proud to work on the relaunch of the Trossachs Trail, a project that highlights one of Scotland’s most scenic and historically rich regions. The Trossachs are widely regarded as the birthplace of Scottish tourism, first attracting visitors in the early 19th century following the success of Sir Walter Scott’s 1810 poem The Lady of the Lake, set around Loch Katrine.

Today, the Trossachs Trail is Scotland’s first designated geographical touring route. It offers a circular journey through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, taking in iconic locations including Loch Katrine, Aberfoyle, Callander, Loch Achray, the Duke’s Pass and Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. The trail blends landscape, heritage and culture, offering a meaningful way to explore the area by car, bike, boat and on foot.

Website design and visual storytelling

I designed and built a new website for the Trossachs Trail, focusing on clarity, accessibility, and ease of use for visitors planning their journey. The site is fully mobile-friendly and structured to support discovery, orientation and inspiration.

All photography featured on the website was captured by me, showcasing the landscapes, landmarks and atmosphere of the trail and its surrounding villages. The imagery plays a key role in setting expectations and helping visitors understand both the scale and character of the route.

To complement the website, I also produced a short introductory film to bring the trail to life, highlighting the dramatic scenery and sense of journey that defines the experience.

Mapping, print and on-site interpretation

Beyond the digital platform, I researched, wrote and helped design a printed leaflet and illustrated map to support the relaunch. These materials are now available in local tourist hubs and online, providing visitors with a clear, practical guide to the route.

The printed guide and map are supported by on-site interpretive panels installed at key locations along the trail. Together, these elements help visitors navigate confidently while also understanding the cultural and historical significance of the places they are exploring.

Collaboration and community involvement

The project was led by the Steamship Sir Walter Scott Trust, working closely with Friends of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs. Local communities in Aberfoyle and Callander played an essential role in shaping the relaunch, ensuring the trail information was accurate, locally relevant and genuinely useful for visitors.

This collaborative approach helped create a trail that feels rooted in place, rather than imposed from outside.

Impact and outcomes

The refreshed Trossachs Trail has become a valuable resource for both visitors and residents. It provides a self-guided way to explore the heart of the National Park, supports local businesses, and encourages responsible travel.

Through improved digital presence, clear print materials and engaging visual content, visitors now have a much stronger understanding of why the Trossachs matter — historically, culturally and environmentally.

If you’re involved in a destination, route or place-based project and would like support with marketing, interpretation, websites, photography or video, I’d be delighted to discuss how I could help.

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