It occupies what must have been a strategic position in those more turbulent times, on the side of a gorge of the River Ardoch, which surrounds it on three sides. Its immediate environs, however, are now no less peaceful and beautiful than the imposing castle itself, set among 15 acres of magnificent grounds, composed of both wild and formal gardens which are a haven for a wide variety of wildlife.
For all its peaceful setting, the castle is only three miles from both rail and motorway connections, within an hour of both Glasgow and Edinburgh, and within easy distance of some of Scotland's principal attractions. Nearby Doune and Dunblane (3m) have all facilities, and Stirling, with its dramatic castle, Wallace Monument, Bannockburn Memorial and university is only 8 miles away. On the M9 to the north east, are first and foremost (for golf enthusiasts), Gleneagles (14m) and beyond that are Perth, Fife and the Highlands, all of which are viable destinations for an enjoyable day trip. Historic Doune Castle is just down the road, while the pretty tourist town of Callander (11m) is on the edge of the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, where hill walkers can tackle Ben Ledi, only one of numerous good walks in the area. The Trossachs and Loch Lomond, too, can be reached within the hour.
