Explorer bus set to roam for summer

A popular eco-friendly Loch Lomond bus service is set to make a comeback for the bustling summer period.

- CHRIS MARZELLA

The Trossachs Explorer service will run from Monday, July 7, until Sunday, October 5, following a successful 2024 pilot that saw over 5,000 passengers use the bus.

This year’s enhanced service builds upon comprehensive feedback and evaluation from 2024, with 91 per cent of surveyed passengers expressing their intent to use the shuttle bus again.

New improvements include an extended route, now commencing from Drymen, improved links to existing public transport services, a new local operator, and more accessible buses.

Two modern, low-emission buses will operate seven-days-a-week between Drymen and Callander, making stops at popular tourist spots such as Aberfoyle, The Lodge, Ben Venue, Loch Katrine, Ben A'an, Brig o’ Turk and Kilmahog (for Ben Ledi).

The service boasts improved connectivity with synchronised timetables linking existing bus services to and from Killin, Stirling, Glasgow, Alexandria and Balloch, as well as Loch Katrine sailing times.

All-day tickets will be available at £6 for adults, £3.50 for children and £5.65 for students.

Group/family tickets are priced at £16 for up to five individuals and passengers can also opt for a seven-journey saver ticket for £25.

Those under 22 and over 60 can travel free with a National Entitlement Card.