Explore Loch Lomond…

By Yon Bonnie Banks

The song 'The Bonnie Banks o' Loch Lomond' is known worldwide, making Loch Lomond one of the most famous Scottish lochs. Luckily for you, this beautiful loch is just minutes from the Trossachs Collection.

The loch doesn't disappoint visitors; over-delivering in scale, beauty and natural wonders, those bonnie banks are home to picturesque villages, shoreline paths and Scotland's most southerly Munro Ben Lomond, from where the Loch gets its name.

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Beautiful Villages 

Close to your accommodation is Drymen, Gateway to East Loch Lomond. The village bustles with walkers of the West Highland Way and Rob Roy Way. It is also on NCN7 - Lochs and Glens North, a national cycle path that cuts through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs. From Drymen, an 11-mile dead-end road will take you first to Balmaha, arguably one of Scotland’s prettiest villages and then Milarrochy Bay, before Rowardennan at the end of the road. This is where you can climb Ben Lomond from.

Water Transport and Heritage

Loch Lomond is best explored by boat, with Cruise Loch Lomond departing from Balmaha and Sweeney’s Cruises from Balloch. For the ultimate experience take a motorboat from Portnellan Farm (Gartocharn) to visit some of Loch Lomond’s 22 islands. One boat that sadly doesn’t sail anymore is the Maid of the Loch, Loch Lomond’s last paddle steamer. However, that may change as a group of volunteers are fundraising to get this iconic ship sailing again, you can visit her at her dock in Balloch.

Other Activities

Enjoy golf at a nearby course, or visit one of the two RSPB reserves in the National Park at Gartocharn or Inversnaid. There are many excellent cycling and walking routes and trails to enjoy. Walking favourites include Conic Hill and Inchcailloch Island (by on-demand ferry), park at Balmaha for both of these gems.

Wet Weather Options

If the sun isn’t shining and you are looking for an indoor activity Glengoyne Distillery is not far away, enjoy a tour and tasting. Or visit Loch Lomond Sea Life Centre at Loch Lomond Shores, an aquarium that all the family will enjoy. Alternatively, cosy up by the fire in one of the nearby village pubs.