A NEW bus service aimed at helping people explore a popular national park has been announced following a successful pilot last year.
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority have announced that The Trossachs Explorer will return next month, giving passengers the opportunity to explore some of the best parts of the region.
The service will run from July 7 to October 5, following a successful 2024 pilot that welcomed more than 5000 passengers.
Two low-emission, modern buses will run seven days a week between Drymen and Callander, stopping at popular visitor destinations including Aberfoyle, The Lodge, Ben Venue, Loch Katrine, Ben A'an, Brig o' Turk and Kilmahog (for Ben Ledi).
The service will also co-ordinate timetables linking existing bus routes to and from Killin, Stirling, Glasgow, Alexandria and Balloch, as well as Loch Katrine sailing times.
Gordon Watson, chief executive at Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority, welcomed the service as he said it will help tackle the number of cars that visit the area every day.
He said: “Following the success of last year’s service, we’re delighted to welcome the Trossachs Explorer back on the road this summer – helping visitors and residents to build deeper connections with nature, while doing their part to reduce emissions and protect our National Park for future generations.
“The expanded service helps us directly tackle the challenge that 79% of visitors to the National Park arrive by car, while also opening up opportunities for young people, families without cars, and staff working in local businesses who need reliable transport options.
“Services like this prove that rural areas can lead the way in demonstrating multiple benefits to visitors, residents and local businesses. But true sustainability can only be achieved through long-term investment and partnership.”
All-day tickets will be available at £6 for adults, £3.50 for children and £5.65 for students.
Group/family tickets will cost £16 for up to five people, and passengers can also purchase a seven-journey saver ticket for £25 and under 22s and over 60s can travel for free with a National Entitlement Card.
The service will be operated by McColls and is supported by funding from the National Park Authority, Tactran through Transport Scotland's People and Place programme, Stirling Council and Callander Community Council through the Braes of Doune Community Fund.
Councillor Jen Preston, convener of Stirling Council’s Environment, Transport and Net Zero Committee said: “The resounding success of last year’s pilot has led to the welcome return and expansion of the Trossachs Explorer bus service.
“There’s a clear appetite for sustainable and well-connected public transport options in rural Stirling, and in particular to the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, which this service responds to.
“Every visitor and resident who uses the Trossachs Explorer helps to reduce traffic congestion and contributes to a reduction in vehicle emissions while helping to support rural communities.”
