What comes to mind when you think of Scotland? Nature and an ever-present effervescent green? Monsters like Nessie? Magic? If you’re looking for a place that combines all of the above, Balloch Park Fairy Trail is the place to go! (Sadly, there’s no Nessie at Balloch Park…but there IS a dragon!)
So what makes this place so cool? Read on to learn all about this hidden Scotland attraction!
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What is Balloch Park?
Balloch Park is a 200-acre country park near the southern edge of Loch Lomond. It has nature trails, a walled garden, beautiful views of the loch, and even its very own castle!
Balloch Castle was built in 1808 at the order of John Buchanan, who also was the original developer of the gardens of Balloch Park. Although it is a relatively new castle, it does borrow stone from a castle that was in this area since around 1238…so parts of it are older than you would expect on a first glance!
Unfortunately, the castle is now unused and closed; but the castle grounds, gardens, and extended park are still in use and beautiful.
Hidden Scotland Attraction: Balloch Park Fairy Trail
While the park is beautiful, the real exciting attraction here is the Balloch Fairy Trail. Dotted throughout the landscape—on well-marked trails and on secluded pathways too—you will find little fairy houses and other tree stump carvings in a variety of designs. From adorable mushroom-shaped fairy houses, to acorn designs, to old tree spirits, and more…each carving is intricate and delightful!
About the Balloch Park Fairy Trail
But how did this fairy trail come into existence? These enchanting carvings are the work of Patrick Muir, a local tree surgeon. Rather than leaving behind the ugly stumps of the diseased trees he has to cut down, Muir decided to start carving fun things into the stumps to bring more beauty and whimsy to the landscape.
Inspired by his daughters’ love for his carvings, he uses his lunch hour and spare time to create carvings that the public can enjoy while strolling through Balloch Park. And he does these carvings using a chainsaw! Talk about talent.
The Magic of the Fairy Trail
These whimsical carvings and the fairy house trail turn a walk in the park into a treasure hunt, but the magic goes even beyond this. There’s something about the continuous green of the park, the moss coating the tree trunks, and the detailed and endearing carvings that makes you believe that fairies and magic may actually exist here!
All the best fairy tales take place in the woods, and it’s woods like these that make the tales come to life. So follow the trails and find the magic—both adults and children will love searching the park to find each new and surprising carving!
How to Train Your (Scottish) Dragon
While the fairy houses are adorable and delightful, my favorite carving here is actually the carving of a dragon. Who else always thought it would be fun to have your very own dragon and be a dragon rider? (Just me?)
Regardless of whether or not it’s your dream to be friends with a dragon, you’ll have to admit that Muir’s majestic dragon carving is one of the most breathtaking in the park! Carved out of a fallen tree, this dragon cuts a very impressive figure while watching over the park and the loch.
If you don’t have very long to explore the fairy trail, I recommend you at least try to see one fairy house plus stop by this dragon to get the full scope of the magic and artistry of Muir’s work!
How to Find the Balloch Park Fairy Trail
As you can imagine, following the fairy trail can be a bit daunting at first…because to find the fairy houses you have to think like a fairy! Ok, I’m kidding. Sort of.
If fairies like woodland areas, though, it makes sense that you’re going to have to take some rural trails to find the carvings. While some are easy-to-find and in the open, others may be hidden down pathways away from the main trails.
But in the end, the trails you take and the places you lose your way are part of the magic. There’s nothing quite like the reward of turning a corner and spotting one of these carved gems hiding behind a tree! So take your time, get lost, and find the fairies…you’re sure to have a good time both in the journey and in actually finding the carvings!
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