Trust teams up with round the world cyclist to showcase accessible routes in National Park

Trust in the Park has teamed up with renowned round-the-world cyclist and filmmaker Markus Stitz to showcase Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park’s accessible routes this summer.

Article Source: Trust in the Park
Last Updated: 19 July 2024 16:03

Trust in the Park has teamed up with renowned round-the-world cyclist and filmmaker Markus Stitz to showcase the Park's extensive network of accessible walking, wheeling and cycling routes this summer.

A new short film titled ‘Gateways’, now available on YouTube, underscores the Trust’s commitment to making active travel accessible to all.

The film, supported by Paths for All’s 'Smarter Choices Smarter Places' fund, encourages people to slow down, connect with nature and explore the national park by active transport, leaving their cars at home.

Markus Stitz, the first person to cycle around the world on a single-speed mountain bike, was commissioned by the Trust to make the film in recognition of his dedication to removing barriers to the great outdoors.

Through his lens, viewers are invited to explore the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant communities that make the national park a haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities.

Known for his bikepacking adventures across the world, Stitz has a particular fondness for his adopted homeland: “Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, widely recognised as the birthplace of Scottish tourism and the gateway to the Highlands, is setting new standards in accessibility with its extensive network of walking, wheeling and cycling routes.

“It features some of the world’s most outstanding places to walk, wheel and cycle, with trails through some of Scotland’s most stunning natural habitats, from native woodlands and peatlands to mountains and lochs.”

Filmed entirely through active travel modes, ‘Gateways’ journeys through the park’s picturesque landscapes and communities offering a glimpse into the lives of those who live and work there. Including hand bike enthusiast Neil Russell, who enthuses about the accessible adventures the National Park offers him: “One of the things I love most is how easily you can get out and feel quite remote, immersed in nature. Coming from Stirling, Glasgow or Edinburgh you're very quickly out here enjoying this environment and getting to see the wildlife.”

Gordon Allan, Manager of The Steamship Sir Walter Scott, also features in the film:
“The best thing about having our steamship back on the water is that we can get accessible bikes on board. We had a chap last year whose excitement was palpable when he came back to Loch Katrine. He said it was fantastic to come to Trossachs pier, sail on the steamship to Stronachlachar and then return under his own power.”

As well as scenic boat trips, the National Park encompasses key trails like the West Highland Way, Rob Roy Way and the Great Trossachs Path, alongside the National Cycle Network Route 7 (Lochs and Glens Way).

Jim Riach, the Trust’s Active Travel Officer, explains:
“With several of Scotland’s most famous active travel routes passing through the area, connecting with nature and the Park’s gateway communities of Aberfoyle, Callander, Arrochar and Tarbet couldn’t be easier.

“The Park not only offers amazing trails and stunning landscapes but also everything you need to support your adventure, from welcoming accommodation and cafes to an extensive network of bike shops and rental services that make leaving the car at home an attractive option.”

Adding: “What fascinates me about living and working in this area is the passion that people have for their home, and for cycling, walking, and wheeling throughout the seasons.”

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is accessible to half of Scotland’s population by either public or active travel. Arrochar and Tarbet are well-connected by train and bus, while Aberfoyle and Callander offer good bus connections to the train station in Stirling. During the peak tourist season (July to October), the Trossachs Explorer service further enhances accessibility by connecting Callander and Aberfoyle with popular attractions and active travel routes.

Discover cycling, walking and wheeling routes and plan your journey to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park by public transport at www.trustinthepark.org.

Follow @trustinthepark on social media for itinerary inspiration and tag your sustainable journey using #AJourneyThatMatters.

Link to the film here

Got a story to share? Send us an email at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk

Latest Stirling News

Countdown begins: The AJ Bell Great Scottish Run returns to Glasgow in October

Scotland's greatest running event, the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run, will return to Glasgow on Sunday 5th October and they want everyone to 'Be Your Greatest'.

BTS fans take the spotlight in latest K Pop documentary heading to Vue

BTS Army: Forever We Are Young, a brand-new documentary celebrating the fans that helped catapult 21st century pop icons BTS into global stardom comes to Vue.

Plenty of summer family fun at Vue venues across Scotland

Family favourites and animated adventures are heading to the big screen this summer holiday at Vue venues across Scotland.

SAY Award opens submissions for eligible albums

Scotland’s national music prize – the Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award – has opened submissions for 2025’s £20,000 prize.

Innis & Gunn Joins Forces with Stirling Highland Games in a 3 Year Cultural Celebration

The Stirling Highland Games has proudly announced a new three-year partnership with one of Scotland’s most iconic brewing brands, Innis & Gunn.

Great value summer holiday activities at Dobbies Garden Centres

This summer, gather the whole family and head to Dobbies Garden Centres for a day of fun-filled activities that will keep costs down.

FREE family festival at Loch Lomond Shores returns on 5th and 6th July

Summerfest, the FREE family festival at Loch Lomond Shores, is back on the 5th and 6th of July with lots of things to see and do!

Earlybird tickets drive buzz for 2026 Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Home Show

The biggest show of its kind in Scotland returns with Earlybird tickets and a give-away with headline sponsor Border Caravans!

July events at Dobbies Garden Centres

Check out July at Dobbies with it's Little Seedlings Club on rainforests and Grow How on pest control and healthy gardens!

Historic Environment Scotland calls for public stories for national wellbeing exhibition

Historic Environment Scotland is calling for people across the country to connect with heritage to boost their wellbeing as a part of a national campaign, Historic Places, Breathing Spaces.

Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 adds two new categories and voting deadline extended!

Scotland's hospitality industry and customers have spoken, and the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 has listened!

25th year of Refugee Festival Scotland gets underway

Refugee Festival Scotland gets underway today, kick-starting nine days of dance performances, film screenings, visual art and photography exhibitions and community events across the country.

Exclusive Superman screening at Vue venues in Scotland

Tickets are on sale for an exclusive Superman screening at Vue venues in Scotland, with fans in for an extra special treat to take home.

Acclaimed debut Only Here, Only Now from Tom Newlands chosen as Waterstones Book of the Month in Scotland

The paperback edition of Only Here, Only Now by Tom Newlands has just been released - and is already making waves.

Feedback sought on new Walk, Cycle, Live Stirling project

To mark Bike Week UK, people across Stirling are being encouraged to take part in a new survey that will help shape active travel in the area and support the shift to sustainable modes of transport.

Stirling BID team brighten up City Centre with Blooming Planters

Pollinator-friendly plants, funded and organised by Go Forth Stirling BID have added a welcome splash of colour across Stirling city centre.

Funding Boost for Charities at Scottish Building Society AGM

Scottish Building Society marked its Annual General Meeting (AGM) by announcing funding to support eight local charities and good causes across the country.

Classic car enthusiasts set to visit Loch Lomond Shores

Visitors are invited to come along and get up-close to some amazing cars, set against the beautiful backdrop of Loch Lomond, as part of a great day out.

Paws, play and heritage on parade

Bark by popular demand, the Gordon Setter Parade returns on Saturday 5th July as part of the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Scottish Game Fair, held at the stunning Scone Palace.

Dobbies hosts brand new Fairy Garden Tea Party

Dobbies Garden Centres are inviting families across the UK along to its stores on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th of June to spend a magical afternoon filled with fun activities and good food.

Stirling celebrates its rich history at the Walking of the Marches

Stirling’s rich history and heritage was celebrated at its annual Walking of the Marches, which dates back to at least the 12th century, on Saturday (31 May).

Have your say on plans for a sustainable transport system in Stirling

People will have the opportunity to shape a future transport system for Stirling that is fair, clean and affordable with the launch of a new consultation.

How to train your Dad in 4DX Cineworld enlists Gerard Butler

Cineworld is launching a brand new 4DX Father's Day gift experience, containing two 4DX tickets and ponchos, perfect for experiencing the new live-action "How to Train Your Dragon" film.

Summer of Roses: Free gardening workshop at Dobbies

Dobbies Garden Centres is hosting a free Rose-themed Grow How workshop this June, sharing top tips for caring for this beloved flowering plant.

William Wallace Running Festival seeks Teams of Bravehearts

Teams of runners have the chance to race through Scotland’s most historic battlefields and stunning landscapes during an exciting new event - the William Wallace Running Festival.

Cheers to 30 years: Scottish Bar and Pub Awards celebrate with public voting now open

Scotland's longest-running hospitality awards turn 30 - and they want you to have your say!

Loch Lomond Unplugged is coming this weekend!

Loch Lomond Unplugged, our FREE showcase of talented buskers and singer/songwriters, is this weekend and we’re super excited to welcome great acts from across Scotland and beyond!

Restored Memorial to be unveiled in Stirling

Restored memorial to be unveiled in Stirling's old town cemetery to mark the 250th anniversary of the American War of Independence.

Dig into summer fun at Dobbies

Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting children to come along to its free-to-attend Little Seedlings Club, taking place across the country this June.

Aldi to gift year supply of free beer to biggest beer lover in Scotland

Aldi Scotland is on the hunt for the nation's biggest beer lover, as it revamps its popular Best Home Bar Competition by expanding the criteria.

Popular Listings

Macrobert Arts Centre Stirling Castle The Albert Halls Stirling The National Wallace Monument Tolbooth Stirling

Trust teams up with round the world cyclist to showcase accessible routes in National Park

Trust in the Park has teamed up with renowned round-the-world cyclist and filmmaker Markus Stitz to showcase Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park’s accessible routes this summer.

Sponsored Links

Latest Stirling News

Sponsored Links

Sponsored Links

Popular Events

Popular Listings