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What a view at Muir of Dinnet!

A spectacular new viewpoint has been opened at the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve, after the old one was removed late last year with the help of volunteers.

The new viewpoint is made with local timber from nearby NNR, Glen Tanar, and boasts interpretation panels and boulder seating. The panels show what visitors can see from the viewpoint, as well as giving information about what is in store on other trails at Muir of Dinnet. The viewpoint is behind the Burn o Vat - a giant pothole some 25 metres across formed by the glacial meltwaters.

Muir of Dinnet NNR was shaped by retreating glaciers at the end of the last ice age around 15,000 years ago. The most striking feature is the Vat' . At the heart of the reserve are Lochs Davan and Kinord, with their near pure water, bogs and fens providing ideal habitat for a wide mix of species from rare water beetles to otters.

New Trail Link!

A 1km extension to the popular Loch Leven heritage trail has now been completed bringing the total trail length to 14.5km - all suitable for walkers, cyclists and wheelchair users. It also links into the Sustrans Cycle National Network.

Crossing the South Quiech the trail winds alongside the loch to a stunning, innovatively designed new hide offering fantastic views. Many species of wildfowl that make use of Loch Leven's rich waters can be seen like Tufted Duck, Goldeneye, Great Crested Grebes and Whooper Swans, as well as Otters and Kingfishers. From here the trail loops back towards Kinross, finishing at the Loch Leven Mill & Shop.

The Rural Access Committee for Kinross-shire (TRACKS) managed the project, and this section of the Trail was funded by Scottish Natural Heritage, The Gannochy Trust, Sustrans, The Arthur and Margaret Thompson Trust, The Heritage Lottery Fund and Todd & Duncan Ltd.