For years, I confess, I drove right through Crianlarich. It was a signpost on my way to somewhere else—Glen Coe, Fort William, Oban. But I always felt I was missing something.
Then, one trip, I decided to stop and use it as a base. What I discovered was one of the most unassuming yet perfectly located hubs for exploring the absolute best of the Southern Highlands.
It’s the true “Gateway to the Highlands,” a place where major roads and iconic rail lines converge, and where some of Scotland’s most epic adventures begin right on your doorstep.
This guide is born from that personal discovery, and I hope it inspires you to make Crianlarich your own Highland home base.
Why Crianlarich is the Perfect Base for Your Scottish Adventure
Crianlarich isn’t a quaint tourist village with rows of souvenir shops; it’s a practical, strategic, and authentic crossroads that puts you in the heart of the action. Its magic lies in its location.
Unparalleled Access: You’re perfectly poised for day trips. The dramatic landscapes of Glen Coe are a short, breathtaking drive north, the seafood capital of Oban is an easy journey west, and the vast beauty of Loch Lomond is just to the south.
A Hiker’s Paradise: It’s a key stop on the famous West Highland Way and surrounded by towering Munros, including the highest peak in the entire National Park, Ben More.
Superb Transport Links: It’s one of the few Highland spots that is incredibly accessible without a car. The legendary West Highland Line railway stops here, and major bus routes pass through daily, connecting you to Glasgow and beyond.
Planning Your Trip: Essential Information
When to Visit Crianlarich
Honestly, there’s no bad time to visit, as each season paints the Highlands in a different light. Summer brings long days perfect for epic hikes, though it’s also the busiest season.
For me, the magic happens in late spring and autumn. The air is crisp, the midges are gone, and the glens explode in colour—from vibrant greens to deep, rusty reds.
It’s when the snowy hilltops glisten above the glens that the scenery is at its most gorgeous. Winter is a dramatic affair, with snow-capped peaks creating a truly majestic landscape, but be prepared for challenging weather and shorter days.
How Long to Stay: Sample Itineraries
- The Hiker’s Weekend (2 Days): Arrive Friday evening. On Saturday, tackle a section of the West Highland Way, heading north towards the spectacular scenery around Tyndrum. On Sunday, conquer a local peak for incredible views before heading home, feeling accomplished and refreshed.
- A 4-Day Road Trip Base: Use Crianlarich as your hub. Day 1: Drive north through the awe-inspiring Glen Coe. Day 2: Head west to Oban for fresh seafood and ferry-watching. Day 3: Explore the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond with a loch-side walk or a cruise. Day 4: Bag a Munro like Ben More or explore the local Falls of Falloch before you depart.
How to Get to and Around Crianlarich
Getting Here by Car
Crianlarich sits at the crucial junction of the A82 (running north from Glasgow) and the A85 (coming west from Perth). The drive from Glasgow along the banks of Loch Lomond is stunning in itself.
Important Fuel Warning: There is no petrol station in Crianlarich. I can’t stress this enough! Make sure you have at least half a tank before leaving the lowlands. The nearest fuel is in Tyndrum, 5 miles to the north.
Getting Here by Train
This is one of my favourite ways to arrive. Crianlarich is a key stop on the West Highland Line, often voted one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world.
Direct trains run from Glasgow Queen Street. For a truly memorable experience, you can even take the Caledonian Sleeper service directly from London Euston and wake up in the heart of the Highlands.
Getting Here by Bus
Citylink buses run multiple services a day from Glasgow and Edinburgh, connecting Crianlarich with Fort William, Oban, and the Isle of Skye. The bus stop is conveniently located right at the Crianlarich Hotel.
Getting Around
While the village itself is small and walkable, you’ll need a car to get the most out of the surrounding area and reach trailheads.
For hikers, a local taxi service, Crianlarich Cars, can be a lifesaver for getting to and from the trail, but be aware that it operates seasonally and must be pre-booked.
Where to Stay in Crianlarich: Options for Every Traveller
From historic hotels to cosy B&Bs and a world-class youth hostel, you’ll find a welcoming place to rest your head.
Hotels & Lodges
- Best Western Crianlarich Hotel: A comfortable and historic hotel right in the centre of the village, known for its roaring log fires in winter.
- Ben More Lodge: A traditional lodge hotel with a great pub, stunning mountain views, and a welcoming atmosphere for walkers.
B&Bs and Guest Houses
- Glenardran House: A friendly and highly-rated B&B known for its warm welcome and comfy rooms, open all year.
- Craigbank Guest House: Another pleasant and welcoming option right on the main street.
- Glenbruar B&B: Conveniently located opposite the Crianlarich Hotel.
Hostels & Budget Options
- Crianlarich Youth Hostel: This isn’t just any hostel; it’s a fantastic, modern facility run by Hostelling Scotland. It’s incredibly popular with West Highland Way walkers, offering great value close to the station.
Self-Catering Accommodation
- Kirkton Farmhouse: This is my personal recommendation and a place that holds special memories. We once stayed here over a Christmas and it was absolutely perfect. It’s a fabulous self-catering farmhouse just outside the village, offering peace, quiet, and incredible scenery right from your window. Waking up to those views is something I’ll never forget.
Top Things to Do in and Around Crianlarich
For the Hiker: The West Highland Way
You can’t talk about Crianlarich without mentioning the West Highland Way. The village is the approximate halfway point of this epic 96-mile trail from Milngavie to Fort William.
You’ll see weary but happy hikers stocking up on supplies or enjoying a well-earned pint. Walking a section of it is a must-do, offering a real taste of one of the world’s great long-distance walks.
For the Munro Bagger: Climbing Ben More
Looming majestically over the village is Ben More, the highest peak in the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park at a mighty 1174 metres (3852 ft).
It’s a steep and challenging climb, usually started from Benmore Farm, but the panoramic views from the summit are simply breathtaking and worth every ounce of effort.
Many climbers combine it with the neighbouring Munro, Stob Binnein, for a truly epic day in the mountains.
For the Scenery Seeker: Falls of Falloch & Falls of Dochart
You don’t have to climb a mountain to see some spectacular nature. Just south of Crianlarich, the Falls of Falloch is a beautiful 30-foot waterfall and a popular beauty spot.
Don’t miss the ‘Woven Sound’ viewpoint, a wonderfully designed platform that gets you close to the thundering water.
A short drive east takes you to Killin and the equally impressive Falls of Dochart, which crash through the heart of the village.
Day Trips from Your Crianlarich Base
This is where Crianlarich truly shines. That “and Beyond” from my original trip title becomes your daily adventure playground.
North to Glen Coe & Fort William
This is one of the most epic drives on the planet. The road north on the A82 takes you over the vast and beautifully desolate Rannoch Moor before dropping into Glen Coe.
The sheer scale of the mountains, like the iconic Buachaille Etive Mor, will leave you speechless.
West to Oban, the Gateway to the Isles
A scenic drive west takes you to the bustling port town of Oban.
Grab some of the freshest fish and chips you’ll ever taste from a pier-side shack, watch the CalMac ferries come and go, and maybe even take a short trip to the Isle of Kerrera.
South to Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
Head south and you’re immediately on the banks of the famous Loch Lomond.
Stop for a walk along the shore, take a boat trip from Tarbet or Luss, or simply admire the views of Ben Lomond across the water.
Where to Eat and Drink
After a day of exploring, you’ll have worked up an appetite. In Crianlarich itself, the Rod and Reel pub and the hotel bars offer hearty meals and a warm welcome.
However, I have to give a special mention to the Tyndrum Inn, just a five-minute drive up the road in the next village.
I can personally vouch for their chicken and Haggis dish—it is the perfect, soul-warming reward after a long day on the hills. Absolutely delicious!
Crianlarich Practicalities & FAQ
Your Highland Adventure Awaits
Crianlarich may not be the final destination on most tourist maps, but it is the perfect launchpad for an unforgettable Scottish adventure.
It’s a place that gets under your skin—a real, working Highland hub that puts the very best of Scotland’s wild beauty within your reach. So next time, don’t just drive through. Stop, stay, and let your own journey begin.
