Killin; Loch Tay (Hire canoes available)
There is a very easy beginner / family paddle at Killin. (OS sht 51, NN 572 333).The rivers Lochay and Tay are very slow flowing and sheltered as they join and enter Loch Tay. Also there are a set of islands at the river mouth, with picnic beaches. These give a nice 'collecting feature' as you paddle onto the loch. [avoiding the temptation to paddle straight into the cold middle of the loch!]
The access is very good, being immediately adjacent to the hotel and almost opposite the public car park. Normally you can drive to the waters edge (ask if fisherfolk present) to unload (steep ramp).
More importantly for the beginner, you can hire a boat and all the gear (paddles, life jackets) from Killin Outdoor [http://www.killinoutdoor.co.uk/canoe/canoe.html], immediately adjacent the carpark. The boats are on a trolley so a short brisk walk (100m!!) to get you started [you don't have to carry anything! that's what the trolley does].
The boats are suitable for a family of 4 (2 adults + 2 medium (6-12) kids). We started there. Then had many son's birthday parties with 2 or 3 of his friends. Lots of messing about on the beaches, cooking up on a trangia (the kelly kettle would be just as good!), they even enjoyed it the year it drizzled all day!.
The length of water on the map may not look much but with exploring each river (weaving upstream!) and round the islands, there is plenty for a day's exploring.
Ideal if you're on holiday or are passing through the area, even if you don't have your own gear with you.
Philip Oakley
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