Glen Lyon
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Glen Lyon is one of Scotland's most beautiful glens. It starts at Fortingall and runs for some 20 miles to Cashlie. Over the journey it changes dramatically in character. At its base the River Lyon has cut a deep gorge known as MacGregor's leap. It gets its name from an outlaw member of the MacGregor clan, who is said to have escaped justice by leaping the falls. |  In the middle of the glen you will find pastures and arable land, but further up the glen turns to exposed moorland and is truly highland. |
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The Glen is packed with history, It is infamous for having been the home of John Cambell of Glen Lyon - responsible for the Glen Coe massacre. You will also find close to Fortingall, the remnants of an early camp, said to be of Roman origin. Local fables and the writings of the medieval historian Holnished suggest that this was the birth place of Pontius Pilate. In the grounds of Fortingall Church you will see the remains of what is perhaps Europe's oldest tree. It is not much to look at today, but in the 18th century it was found to have a circumference of 54 feet. In the field opposite the Church is a standing stone which commemorates the medieval plague in which the whole village perished save one old woman. Some of the grave stones in the Churchyard tell their own stories. |
| If you are visiting the area by car, then Glen Lyon is an absolute must. Be warned though, the road is not suitable for caravans or coaches! The trip from Kenmore to Killin takes a good couple of hours. While you are on your journey, be sure to drop in at the Bridge of Balgie. Here you will find a delightful post office come village shop which serves cream teas by the banks of the River Lyon, and next door is the most excellent Glenlyon art gallery. |
The tartan of Glen Lyon
Home Page of Scottish Tartans
Fortingall Yew Tree
Map of Glen Lyon
More things to see and do in Glen Lyon