Canoe, Kayak and Paddleboard Sessions in Stirlingshire

Activity Highlights:

Choose between a dedicated paddleboarding session or a mixed paddlesports experience featuring canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Each option is designed for beginners and those looking to refine their skills, with expert instructors guiding you every step of the way. Sessions take place on a private lochan, providing a safe and scenic environment to enjoy time on the water.

Key Details

Duration: 60-90 minutes, depending on group size
Season: April to October
Age: 8+ for paddleboarding, 5+ for mixed paddlesports (under 18s must be accompanied by a participating adult)
Equipment: Wetsuits and buoyancy aids provided
Group Size: Minimum of 8 participants; private bookings available

What to Expect

Paddleboarding Session
Ideal for those new to stand-up paddleboarding or looking to build confidence, this session starts with a full safety briefing and an introduction to the basics. You'll begin by kneeling on the board, learning how to balance and control your movements before progressing to standing. Your instructor will guide you through different paddling techniques, helping you improve stability and steering. With plenty of time to practise, you'll gain confidence on the board while enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the lochan.

Mixed Paddlesports Session (Canoeing, Kayaking & Paddleboarding)
For those wanting to try a bit of everything, this session offers a mix of canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. After a briefing on safety and techniques, you'll have the chance to test each craft, learning how to control a kayak with efficient strokes, manoeuvre a canoe with teamwork, and stand confidently on a paddleboard. The session is tailored to suit all skill levels, making it a great choice for families and groups looking for a varied paddling experience.

Location

Set on a private lochan at the edge of the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park, these sessions take place in a peaceful and scenic location.

Easily accessible from Glasgow (under an hour’s drive) and just over an hour from Edinburgh, the site provides a calm and controlled environment for trying out paddlesports.

Prerequisites

No prior experience is required, as both sessions are designed for beginners and those looking to improve. Participants should be comfortable in the water and able to follow instructions. Wetsuits and buoyancy aids are provided for safety and comfort.

Why Choose Us

Led by a team of experienced instructors, these sessions offer a fun and supportive environment to learn paddlesports. Whether you're trying paddleboarding for the first time or exploring multiple crafts, the focus is on building confidence and enjoying the water.

The centre is committed to sustainability, with initiatives such as tree planting and plans for eco-friendly facilities. Choosing this activity supports an organisation dedicated to both adventure and conservation.

FAQs:

How do I get there?

We are located on the A81, just outside Gartmore and Aberfoyle. If using a SatNav, enter our full address: Easterhill, Gartmore, FK8 3SA. Turn into Trossachs Holiday Park from the A81 and follow the right-hand fork down an unpaved farm track, following the small sign.

After about half a mile, you’ll reach the farm on your left. Parking is signposted past the green barn on the right. Please drive carefully on the track, keeping to the 5 MPH speed limit.

Is public transport available?

Due to our rural location, public transport is not recommended.

If you plan to travel by bike, we are directly connected to Sustrans Cycle Route 7.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, dogs are welcome, but they must be kept on a lead at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after them and disposing of waste in the bins provided.

Water bowls and spare poo bags are available on-site. If your dog cannot be left in your vehicle while you take part in an activity, you must bring a non-participating adult to supervise them.

Please note that spectating while supervising a dog is not suitable for most activities.

Do I need to have an adult in my group?

Yes, all sessions require at least one adult participant.

What is the minimum group size for a session?

The minimum group size required to run a session is 8 people. However, individuals or smaller groups can still book, and we will do our best to group you with others.

If the minimum number isn’t met, we will contact you as soon as possible to rearrange your booking for another time or offer an alternative option.

Can I choose between paddleboarding and the mixed paddlesports session?

Yes, you can choose either a dedicated paddleboarding session or a mixed paddlesports session, which includes canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

When booking, you’ll need to specify which session you’d like to take part in, as they are run separately. Both options provide expert instruction and take place on our private lochan, offering a safe and enjoyable experience.