The new pyramid at Inveruglas. Photo: Michael McGurk

A 26ft-high wooden pyramid designed by a team of young architects has been unveiled on the banks of Loch Lomond.

The 8m viewing platform An Ceann Mòr was opened by Scottish Cabinet Secretary Richard Lochhead at Inveruglas on the western shore of the loch.

The structure is the fourth and final installation in the first pilot project for Scottish Scenic Routes, a Scottish Government project designed to encourage visitors travelling along scenic tourist routes to stop and see views in a new way, helping to boost the local economy.

Three others were completed last year at the Falls of Falloch, Balquhidder and Loch Lubnaig near Strathyre. The fourth occupies a secluded spot with spectacular views down the loch and over to the Arrochar Alps and Ben Lomond in the middle distance.

An Ceann Mòr, meaning large headland in Gaelic, was designed by Daniel Bar, Stephane Toussaint and Sean Edwards after winning the architectural competition. The structure is clad in sustainable timber which, over time, will fade to a silver-grey to blend in with the landscape.

The new addition to the landscape has 31 steps and offers elevated views, or, for those with limited mobility, a tunnel through the centre of the pyramid opens up to reveal the same vista.

An all-abilities path leads to the viewpoint from the car park, which is already a popular stopping point for coaches.

Mr Lochhead said: “It is a privilege to unveil the An Ceann Mòr. It is a truly spectacular structure that will impress locals and visitors alike.

“The Scottish Scenic Routes initiative was developed by the Scottish Government to encourage people to look at Scotland’s stunning landscape in an alternative way, to give a new perspective on well-known views.

“I think the four installations in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs national park do just that and will provide a boost to the local economy.

“A key aim for the initiative is to provide opportunities for Scotland’s emerging design talent to showcase their remarkable creativity alongside our inspirational landscapes.

“I’d like to offer my congratulations to Daniel, Stephane and Sean, on their innovative design and to staff in the national park authority for their work in delivering the Scenic Routes viewpoints.”

Richard Lochhead is joined by national park chief executive Gordon Watson, convenor Linda McKay and architects Daniel Barr and Stephane Toussaint on the pyramid. Photo: Michael McGurk

Linda McKay, convener of the board of Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, said: “We were delighted to be selected by Scottish Government for the pilot of Scottish Scenic Routes and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the cabinet secretary for the investment and for the confidence he has shown in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs national park.

“It has been a pleasure to promote the work of talented young architects in Scotland and to offer them this unique opportunity to place their cutting-edge designs in the magnificent setting of our national park. Already our visitors have been enjoying exciting new ways to appreciate and engage with our stunning landscapes and I’m confident that the four very individual pieces of the Scenic Routes project will prove to be a great draw.”

A high-powered telescope has been installed at the top of the installation and the timber larch timber cladding supplied by a company in Newtonmore, Inverness-shire.