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Walk to ‘The Whangie’

If you are looking for walks near Loch Lomond then this is a must. Not only is the climb dramatic with its stunning views there is an exciting story behind it which involves the devil!

Location

Only 25 minutes from Loch Lomond Waterfront, situated off the A809 this walk starts from a car park called Queensview. To point out, ‘The Whangie’ is the name given to the peculiar rock formation nestled in the Kilpatrick Hills. Of course, being high up you have stunning views across the surrounding area. Loch Lomond, Conic Hill and the Campsie Fell Hills are to name just a few sights to behold. As well as being a popular place with walkers, rock climbers come here too, to enjoy scrambling their way up the jagged rock face.

About the walk

Starting at Queensview car park, you head over the stone dyke wall and follow the path up the hillside. Important to note, the path starts off well but can be muddier further along, depending on the weather. So wear sensible walking shoes! About an hour and a half along (depending on your pace) you will reach The Whangie itself. Here you can wander along the corridor of split rock and think about the story behind it. Thus making it one of the best walks near Loch Lomond! And children love this walk! So, be sure to tell them the story at the beginning so that their young curiosity pushes them to the top without complaining!

Legend has it

So you will want to know the story behind this is then. Legend has it that one day the devil had gotten really angry. Jenny’s Lum is said to be a local witch who lives in Jenny’s Lum in the Campsie Fells. And on a windy, rainy day, you can see this lum (Scottish for Chimney) smoking away. Interestingly, this is actually a waterfall that sprays on wet and windy days giving it this appearance – but don’t tell the kids! One day, Jenny had organised a party and did not invite the devil. Of course, he was absolutely furious. And in his rage he stormed the sky of the surrounding area, thrashing his tail. As he flew over the Kilpatrick hills, his tail smashed down in utter fury, slicing the rocks in two. So, The Whangie was born!

Why the name?

So you may be wondering about the name? The Whangie is pronounced the ‘whang – ee’. Of course, it is a Scottish name which you may already have figured out. Distinctive sounds roll off your tongue as you pronounce it. Well, in old Scots it means slice. So, for example, a ‘whang o cheese’. Hence, the ‘whang’ between the rocks!

A great family day out

If you are on a day out or on holiday and looking for hill walks near Loch Lomond this is a must. And if you are staying with us here at Loch Lomond Waterfront it is close by. So get your walking shoes on and head for a fun day out of fresh air and exercise. It will be an everlasting memory! Furthermore, if you are looking for accommodation, check out our chalets and lodges. Call us on 01360 870 144 or contact us here for more information.