The Trossachs, Stirling
★★★★
Is there a more perfect Scottish “mountain in miniature” than Ben A’an? Overlooking the romantic waters of Loch Katrine, this rocky peak must be one of the most climbed in central Scotland, and for good reason: an excellent path, short distance and 5-star views from the diminutive summit. The main route up has recently reopened after a few years of closure due to deforestation, and the landscape during the ascent looks a bit bare while the trees regrow. But at least that allows better views across the glen towards Ben Venue.
Chronological photo guide
Lower path 
Ice formations in the burn on the lower slopes 
Ice formations 
First views of the summit from the ascent 
Ben Venue beyond the deforested lower slopes 
Ben Venue 
Ben A’an 
Final approach to the summit 
Shaded upper slopes 
Icicles 
Ben A’an summit 
Loch Katrine 
Ben Venue & Loch Katrine 
Arrochar Alps in the distance 
View east to Ben Ledi (left) 
Loch Achray 
Robin in the car park
Location
O.S. Grid Reference: NN 509070
GPS coordinates: 56.232292,-4.406047
No public transport within 1 mi
Car park (charge)
Key info
4 km / 2 mi | ▲ 340 m |
2-3 hr
Features: △ Ben A’an (454 m)
⬤ Moderate | Excellent path throughout, often steep.
Out-and-back walk to Ben A’an summit
On our last visit
Wildlife: Tame robins in the car park (and on the car!) looking for food.
Weather: Mostly sunny, a few degrees either side of freezing; -7°C on the drive to the start. Breezy for a time on the summit.
December 2017
