Michael Bruce Way (2.5 miles)
This circular route takes in the Kinross-Shire villages of Scotlandwell and Kinnesswood with their surrounding countryside. The trail is named after a local poet who lived in the 1700s and is clearly waymarked. Start in Scotlandwell and pay a visit to the source of the fresh water which gives the village its name. Pay no heed to the council's warning sign regarding the suitability of the water for consumption. I drank my fill here on many occasions am still going strong 40 years later.
Leave the village by the B920, known locally as The Causeway and signposted for Lochgelly. As the pavement peters out, turn right on to a farm road with a green waymarker. This leads to Portmoak Moss which is a rare example of a raised peat bog and an important wildlife habitat. Information boards tell you more.
The trail follows the edge of the Moss then we work our way towards Kinnesswood through trees and across open farmland. We join the pavement on the A911 as we enter the village. Pass by the petrol garage then take a right up a street called The Cobbles. The Michael Bruce Cottage Museum is located here and keys can be obtained from the garage during business hours.
Push upwards until the residential area gives way to the lower slopes of Bishop Hill. The path now clings to the foothills offering eleveated views of the sprawling Loch Leven and the surrounding Shire of Kinross. It's not unusual to see gliders flying overhead, making their way to and from Portmoak Airfield. Follow the obvious route and eventually we descend back to Scotlandwell. The Well Country Inn has a couple of ales on tap.
