loch lomond road trip

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Loch Lomond from Glasgow in 6 Best Road Trip Stops

Scotland’s landscapes are a famous mixture of rugged hills, serene lochs, and picturesque villages, and there’s no better way to experience this beauty than with a road trip to Loch Lomond from Glasgow. I did this trip as part of a longer one to and from the Outer Hebrides – it was lush!

This journey, spanning from the bustling capital city to the serene beauty of Balloch Castle Country Park, the quaint village of Luss, the Inveruglas Visitor Centre, and the haven of Tarbet. Each stop on the way to and around the calming shores of Loch Lomond promises a wonderful mix of history and natural wonders. Get your favourite snacks and a driving playlist ready for this scenic drive, as I guide you through my five road trip stops from Glasgow to Loch Lomond.

What to see on a drive to Loch Lomond from Glasgow

Cities, castles, lochs and villages, the half hour journey between Glasgow and Loch Lomond is worth taking a day to explore.

Start your journey in Glasgow, the dynamic and lively city. There are a plethora of things you can see and do in Glasgow but this is just the first stop on your road trip.

I’d pick your favourite out of the following suggestions:

• Visit the Glasgow Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic structure that dates back to the 12th century.
• Explore the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to an extensive collection of art and artefacts.
• Or The Riverside Museum, located on the banks of the River Clyde, showcases the city’s transportation history.

You could also take a stroll through George Square, the city’s main public square surrounded by impressive Victorian buildings. Here you can admire the architecture of the University of Glasgow, founded in 1451.

You could indulge in some shopping on Buchanan Street here – known for its high-end shops and boutiques.

For now let’s continue with our journey to Loch Lomond from Glasgow with 5 road trip stops.

2. Balloch Castle Country Park

Head northwest from Glasgow towards Balloch Castle Country Park, situated at the southern end of Loch Lomond. The park offers a stunning backdrop with views of the Loch and the surrounding Trossachs National Park.

Balloch Castle Country Park stands as a wonderful example of Scotland’s natural beauty, an oasis on the edge of Loch Lomond. It is incredible how you are just a stone’s throw away from the bustling city of Glasgow and yet can so quickly be in the gorgeous countryside.

Driving down the long and winding roads is an adventure in itself and a chance to take in the magnificent scenery.

The centrepiece of the park, Balloch Castle, is a 19th-century mansion not to be missed. Surrounded by manicured gardens and lush greenery, the castle is home to various tales of Scottish aristocratic life. Visitors can tour the castle and appreciate the fascinating architecture and grandeur of both the building and the decadent rooms inside.

The park itself sprawls over 200 acres. Walkable trails lead through woodlands and open spaces, providing for a gorgeous leisurely stroll or, for the more adventurous, an invigorating hike. Breathtaking panoramic views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding Trossachs National Park await you and are glorious all year round with their ever-changing landscape throughout the seasons.

Families can enjoy picnics on the lawns at Balloch Castle, while adventure seekers can enjoy the more strenuous hikes to viewpoints that show off the Loch in all its glory. Birdwatchers will be treated to a wide variety of different species to admire, and history lovers can learn the backstory to the grounds through informational displays scattered throughout the park. If you really want to push the boat out then take a boat ride from the park’s shores and appreciate the Loch’s vastness.

Balloch Castle Country Park is easily accessible, making it an ideal day-trip destination from Glasgow. Ample parking, well-maintained paths, and facilities make this an easy to manage road trip stop on your way to Loch Lomond from Glasgow. 

3. Luss Village

Further up on the western bank of Loch Lomond, Luss Village is a picture-perfect destination that wouldn’t look out of place on a postcard for Scottish heritage. Steeped in history, surrounded by stunning landscapes, and cobblestone streets, the village is renowned for its 18th century chocolate-box stone cottages with colourful flower gardens. The village’s origins can be traced to mediaeval times, and its architecture reflects the character of times gone by, making wandering through Luss feel like stepping into a storybook. 

The Luss Parish Church, built in 1875, stands as a testament to Scottish craftsmanship, with its distinctive steeple overlooking the Loch. Visitors can explore the churchyard which is home to many ancient gravestones which is an example of the many generations who have lived here.

Luss Pier offers an ideal vantage point to take in the expansive Loch, the largest inland body of water in Great Britain, and the surrounding hills. You may even see some of the aforementioned boats gently bobbing in the water.

Whilst Luss is tranquil it also offers a range of outdoor activities. Whether it’s a scenic cruise or a kayaking excursion, there’s lots of ways to connect with the Loch in a variety of exciting ways. There’s even a sandy beach if you’d prefer to take things a little easier.

For those with a penchant for enchantment, Luss is the starting point for the Loch Lomond Faerie Trail. This family-friendly adventure takes you through woodlands adorned with whimsical sculptures, interactive displays, and a touch of magic. It’s an engaging way to explore the natural surroundings while sparking the imagination of visitors of all ages.

Alternatively, Luss village has some gorgeous shops offering local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional Scottish treats. You can stop for coffee or pick up some mementos of your stop in Luss. Now let’s carry on with our ilLUSStrious journey from Loch Lomond from Glasgow in 5 road trip stops.

4. Inveruglas Visitor Centre

Sitting on the western shores of the gorgeous Loch Lomond, the Inveruglas Visitor Centre is a wonderful place to stop to take in this Scottish treasure. Positioned against a backdrop of rolling hills and pristine waters, this centre serves not only as an informative hub but also as a vantage point at which visitors are treated to sweeping vistas of Loch Lomond. One of the main draws of the Inveruglas Visitor Centre is the impressive panoramic views so make sure you’ve got your camera ready.

Inside the visitor centre, educational exhibits provide insights into the diverse plant and animal life that call the region home, the ecosystem of the area and the ecological significance of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.

Photographers and nature enthusiasts will find Inveruglas to be a haven for capturing the essence of Loch Lomond. The play of light on the water, the lush greenery, and the ever-changing skies provide endless opportunities for stunning photographs, making this a great destination for those seeking to document their Scottish journey to Loch Lomond from Glasgow with 5 road trip stops.

Nestled between the majestic Ben Lomond and the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond, the village of Tarbet is a hidden gem along the western edge of Scotland. Steeped in natural beauty and surrounded by lush landscapes, Tarbet offers a peaceful retreat for travellers seeking a blend of serenity and Scottish charm.

Tarbet, meaning ‘isthmus’ in Scottish Gaelic, is aptly named for its location on a narrow strip of land between Loch Lomond and Loch Long. The village provides yet more impressive views of the expansive Loch Lomond and the surrounding hills.

The Arrochar Trail on Cruach Tairbeirt hill offers woodland walks with amazing views of Loch Long and the Arrochar Alps. You can access the trail from the underpass at Arrochar and Tarbet Train Station. The village of Tarbet also can provide you with a ride on the West Highland Line , voted one of the top rail journeys in the world.

Unlike busier tourist destinations, Tarbet maintains a tranquil and laid-back atmosphere. The unhurried pace allows visitors to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area, making it an ideal spot to relax.

Tarbet offers the potential for outdoor adventures, with opportunities for hiking, boating, and exploring the nearby Trossachs National Park. Ben Lomond, one of Scotland’s Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet), challenges hikers with its trails but rewards them with beautiful summit views.

The village has lots of warm and welcoming B&Bs if you decide to stay over. It’s great for its proximity to Loch Lomond making it a convenient starting point for boat cruises, beginning a hike, discovering historic landmarks such as Arrochar Parish Church, and appreciating the wildlife of the area.

Tarbet is conveniently located along the A82 road, making it a very accessible stop on your journey from Glasgow to Loch Lomond by car. Tarbet is a haven of mother nature and the presence of Ben Lomond only adds to the idyllic journey to Loch Lomond from Glasgow in 5 road trip stops, making your Scottish getaway extra special!

6. Loch Lomond

You’ve made it!

Congratulations – you’re in Loch Lomond. You can now make the most of all the outdoors pursuits the lake has to offer. Enjoy!

Road trip from Loch Lomond to Glasgow

From the hustle and bustle of Glasgow to the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond, this road trip is sure to make memories of the stunning Scottish landscape. Whether that be exploring Glasgow’s more urban architecture, the beauty of Balloch Castle Country Park, the timelessness of Luss, the panoramic views from Inveruglas, and the meditative Tarbet, there is so much that will stay with you long after you leave these glorious vistas.

Rugged beauty is Scotland’s forte, and driving to Loch Lomond from Glasgow with 5 road trip stops will allow you you take in as much of it as possible.

READ MORE: 4 Best Outdoor Activities in Scotland to Enjoy at Anytime of the Year

Loch Lomond from Glasgow 5 road trip stops

• Balloch Castle Country Park
• Luss Village
• Inveruglas Visitor Centre

Is Loch Lomond worth a visit?

Absolutely, Loch Lomond is well worth a visit. It’s one of Scotland’s most picturesque places to see. The loch itself is the largest inland stretch of water in Great Britain by surface area, and it’s surrounded by rolling hills, villages, and a rich variety of wildlife. Whether you’re keen on hiking, boating, or simply soaking in the serene landscapes, Loch Lomond has a lot of activities too.

What is the nearest town to Loch Lomond?

The nearest town to Loch Lomond is Balloch. Situated at the southern tip of the loch, Balloch is a gateway to the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. This quaint town offers a range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and accommodation, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.

Balloch also boasts attractions like the Loch Lomond Shores, a visitor centre with shopping and dining options, and the Balloch Castle Country Park, offering stunning views of the loch.

How long does it take to drive to Loch Lomond from Glasgow?

The drive from Glasgow to Loch Lomond is quite straightforward and takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The most common route is via the A82, which is a scenic drive offering glimpses of the beautiful Scottish countryside. This makes Loch Lomond an easily accessible destination for a day trip. However, I highly recommend you take the day to see all the places listed above.

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

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Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Road Trip Guide

The Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park road trip will introduce wild scenery, interesting local history and fine local food and drink. 

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs is Scotland’s first national park, it is a haven for nature enthusiasts as there is so much lush landscape to explore.

Driving a camper van or car is the best way to complete this route. You can also split it up into many-day trips if that is easier.

There are plenty of beautiful scenic roads in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, some taking you to much quieter areas of the national park.

Loch Lomond is home to 22 lochs so there are plenty of opportunities for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, swimming and doing other water sports. 

The national park is located on the Highland Boundary Fault which makes hillwalking an unforgettable experience.

Also, there are 21 Munros and 19 Corbetts to choose from where you can witness the most magnificent views of forests, lochs, hills and rivers. 

The roads in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park are very windy, with plenty of bends and sharp turns. Also, there is a chance you will bump into highland traffic including sheep and cows on the road.

In addition, some roads are single lane and can be difficult to drive in large cars or camper vans. Therefore, it is important to drive carefully and be aware of other drivers on the road. 

Driving around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs is not an easy one-day trip. I would recommend splitting the trip up into several days or picking your favourite part of Loch Lomond to see and make a weekend out of it. 

Camping 

You can camp in campsites during the spring, summer and early autumn months. Most campsites and tourist centres close over the winter.

‘Wild Camping’ is allowed in Scotland, however, make sure you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code .

Location: Ben Lomond Car Park

First on the list of attractions is one of the most popular Munros in Scotland.

Ben Lomond stands tall at 949 metres. Overall, the walk is 7.5 miles and can take four hours. 

There is car parking at Rowardennan which can get quite busy before 9 am. Also there is are toilet facilities and an information building.

Alternatively, if you do not fancy walking the whole route you can get a clear view of the mountain from the metal jetty on the loch shore.

The start of the walk goes through a forest area before following walking on a clear path. Then, at the summit, you will be rewarded with the most spectacular views.

On the way back keep an eye out for a modern war memorial sculpture by Doug Cocker of Dundee. 

Conic Hill 

Location: Conic Hill Car Park

Conic Hill is a smaller hill which rises above Balamha near the south of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Overall, the walk should take approximately two hours.

There is a huge car park in the centre of Balmaha which has an information centre. Conic Hill is one of the many hills near Glasgow and one of the most popular mountains in Scotland .

Before leaving Balmaha make sure you stop and get a selfie by the Statue of Tom Weir who is a famous outdoorsman who helped showcase the great Scottish outdoors. 

Finnich Glen 

Location: Finnich Glen Car Park

Finnich Glen is also known as the Devil’s Pulpit due to the appearance of red water from the rusted colour sandstone in the steep gorge. The glen is secluded and hard to find.

Also, the steep staircase known as Jacob’s Ladder is definitely not for the faint hearted. However, the atmosphere and views once you get there are spectacular.

This is one of the best-hidden gems in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Finnich Glen is one of the smallest glens in Scotland .

Devil’s Pulpit in Finnich Glen is one of the most popular waterfalls to explore from Glasgow.

Balloch Castle & Country Park 

Location: Balloch Castle Country Park

This beautiful country park lies at the southern tip of Loch Lomond. Balloch Castle is a 19th-century castle surrounded by ornamental walled gardens and fantastic nature trails and it is a popular location for cultural events.

Dumbarton Castle

Location: Dumbarton Castle

This castle is located just outside Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park in Dumbarton. Dumbarton is the ancient capital of Scotland and sits spectacularly on volcanic rock.

Most interestingly, Dumbarton Castle has a long history including Vikings, Mary Queen of Scots and the Scottish Wars of Independence.

Dumbarton Castle has 18th-century artillery fortifications and wonderful views of Ben Lomond. The castle is one of the most significant castles on the west coast of Scotland and also the castle is not far from Glasgow .

St Peter’s Seminary 

Location: St Peter’s Seminary

The disowned and abandoned building was once used for training young men to be priests, however, it closed in 1987 due to lack of enrolment. Some parts of the building are unsafe, therefore be careful when you are exploring the building.

The building is easy to find from Cardross Train Station however the road is narrow and overgrown so it is not accessible by car. St Peter’s Seminary is a haven for urban explorers and an excellent example of brutalist architecture.

The grade A listed building is a shell of its former self but is recommended for a look around and it is an excellent spot to get some amazing photographs.

There is an abundance of artistic graffiti. Also, you can get excellent views over the River Clyde and out towards Greenock at the top of the building. 

Location: Old Toll House

Luss is a popular village on the west bank of Loch Lomond with the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. It is a very picturesque village to stop at.

You can enjoy a pint at Loch Lomond arms, walk the Luss Pier or search for the fairies at Loch Lomond Faerie Trail. There are also quaint cottages lined up along the streets and cute little boutiques. 

Loch Lomond

The small charming village of Luss overlooks the famous Loch Lomond. The loch has a 153-metre sparkly shoreline , which you can explore by foot or on a wild watery adventure.

In addition, there are several small islands in the loch, which can be explored by Loch Lomond Waterbus ferry services.

Or, alternatively, you can hire a small boat and explore the islands yourself. Inchmurrin Island is the most popular island with a hotel and restaurant reached by an on-demand ferry. 

Inveruglas Pyramid 

Location: Inveruglas Pyramid

The An Ceann Mor is an interesting pyramid-shaped viewpoint which was built as part of the Scottish Scenic Routes Project.

There are 31 steps to the top where you will be rewarded with scenic panoramic views of Loch Lomond and the beautiful mountainous landscape including Ben Lomond and the Arrochar Alps.

Visitors can view Loch Sloy Dam from here, which is the largest conventional hydroelectric power plant in the UK.

There is parking close by, picnic benches and a café which is open in the summer months.

Beinn Ime, Beinn Narnain & The Cobbler

Location: Succoth Car Park

Here are more Munro peaks to bag for those solo hikers. Beinn Narnain and Beinn Ime are part of a close cluster of mountains known as the Arrochar Alps .

These Munro peaks are rocky, rigid and steep in nature. In addition, Beinn Ime is the highest Munro in the Arrochar Alps .

Also, from the top you can see great views of the nearby peak of the Cobbler . 

To get there you can park in Succoth car park and walk to the top and back to the care park which takes approximately six hours.

Again, if you are doing a road trip where you do not plan on doing any hiking, this is another great set of peaks to look out for to get amazing photographs. 

Another popular walking route for hikers in the Arrochar Alps is Ben Arthur ( The Cobbler ).

Rest and Be Thankful 

Location: Rest and Be Thankful Viewpoint

Rest and Be Thankful is an excellent viewpoint on the A83 and sits 803 feet above sea level. At the view point you can view the old valley road which was engineered by General Wade during the Jacobite rebellion.

Also, this is the perfect place to sit back for a bit, and appreciate the panoramic spectacular scenic views of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.

Beinn an Lochan

Starting Point: Butter Bridge

Across the road towards the west of Beinn Ime you have another lovely peak which is also part of the Arrochar Alps.

Interestingly Beinn an Lochan was one of the first mountain peaks added to the list of Munros, however it was later discovered it is below the 3, 000 feet mark making it a Corbett peak.

This is a shorter hill walk which should only take 4 hours, however it is steep and strenuous. 

To start his journey you can park at the large parking lot near Butter Bridge, alternatively you can park in a lay-by on the A83 which is 2 kilometres north of Rest and Be Thankful.

On the way up you will pass the Easan Dubh Falls and you can admire the stunning views of Beinn Ime.

Carrick Castle

Location: Carrick Castle

Carrick Castle is a 12th century castle set on the banks of Loch Goil and provides stunning views and is a great area for lovely walks.

There are picnic tables along with toilet facilities so you can sit back and enjoy the tranquil serenity of the National Park.

Also, you can hire paddle boards and kayaks to take onto the loch. The castle is set in a remote area with very poor access.

Carrick Castle is private and it is not open to the public. 

Ardentinny Beach 

Location: Ardentinny Beach

After Carrick Castle you will have to drive back up the north and follow the road down to Ardentinny Beach.

The beach is south of Carrick Castle and also overlooks Loch Long. The loch surrounded by the steep mountainous landscape provides the perfect dramatic scenery for any photograph.

It is the scenery like this that makes Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park very special. At the beach, you can walk nature trails and search for wildlife in the small rock pools. 

Benmore Botanic Garden

Location: Benmore Botanic Garden

Benmore is a stunningly beautiful place, an absolute jewel in Argylls crown.

Also, there are plenty of paths to explore including some challenging paths with steep stairs and some that are more relaxed and flat.

Visitors can look at the variety of plants and wildlife to look out for. More specifically, you can look out for the rhododendron, Bhutanese and Chilean pavilions and the Golden Gates.

Puck’s Glen, Dunoon 

Location: Puck’s Glen

A visit to Puck’s Glen is truly the best way to relax and connect with nature. Following the path over the small bridges and waterfalls should only take an hour to walk around.

The walk through the glen is glorious and the water flowing brings so much life to the gorge. In addition, the atmospheric trail is a magical enchanting experience that is definitely recommended. 

Inveraray Castle

Location: Inveraray Castle

Inveraray Castle is a fairy tale Georgian Castle which belongs to the Dukes of Argyll. The castle is located on the shores of Loch Fyne and is one of Scotland’s finest mansions.

Overall, the castle’s exterior is magnificent and pretty stunning. Visitors can admire the well-maintained outdoor garden and wander through the expensive estate.

There is first-class holiday accommodation on site. Furthermore, you can relax and enjoy a cup of tea at the tearoom and munch on some light refreshments.

Also, there is a gift shop which sells a range of Scottish items. 

Kilchurn Castle

Location: Kilchurn Castle Viewpoint

Kilchurn Castle ruins belonged to the former Clan Campbell from when it was built in the 15th century until the 16th century. This castle is one of my favourite castles on the west coast of Scotland .

It is best to view the castle from all angles so you can get the view of Ben Cruachan in the background also with the beach and loch in the background too.

Also, this is an excellent opportunity to get dramatic photos of one of the most photographed castle ruins in Scotland.

The castle is easily accessible from the road with a good few car parking spaces that are a short walk away from the castle. Nearby on the A819, you can get a stunning panoramic view of Kilburn Castle from a nice viewpoint. 

St Conan’s Kirk

Location: St Conan’s Kirk

St Conan’s Kirk has very unique and interesting architecture. Also, the architecture represents a mixture of styles from several generations from the variety of antiques that is on display.

The Kirk is beautifully stunning from the inside and out. In addition, there is a nice garden with beautiful views across Loch Awe. 

St Conan’s Kirk is privately owned and maintained. Also, it is free to enter.

However, you can put a donation towards the upkeep and preservation of the marvellous building.

There are parking spaces on the lay-by outside St Conan’s Kirk. You can probably spend an hour here as there is so much to look at. 

Falls of Cruachan 

Location: Falls of Cruachan

Again, to view this waterfall you can park at the Falls of Cruachan car park. The walk starts at the Falls of Cruachan Train Station and you walk up a steep path alongside the waterfall.

It can take about an hour to reach the top and it is about 45 minutes before you can see the falls.

Also, you can walk to the hydroelectric plant reservoir and enjoy the view from there. However, be aware that it can be muddy and slippery so be careful while you explore. 

Ben Cruachan 

Ben Cruachan is one of the many Munros featured in this road trip. The mountain has a peak of 1,126 metres which is the highest peak in Argyll and Bute.

Ben Cruachan is a mighty challenge and is not for the faint hearted, with boggy trails and steep rocky paths.

Also, you can tick Stob Diamh off your list by walking along the ridge that connects them. Overall, the route takes seven to nine hours. 

However, you might not be too keen to dive into the deep end and climb one of the highest Munros. That’s alright, Ben Cruachan is a famous peak which will sit perfectly in the background for one of your photographs.

Alternatively, you can walk to Cruachan Dam and admire the views from there. To explore this area you can park at the Falls of Cruachan car park. 

Ben Lui is best known for the circular bowl below the summit and is one of the grandest Munros in the Southern Highlands. The hike starts with a river crossing then through a forest into boggy patches.

The shortest route is from Glen Lochy, enabling a chance to bag two Munros in one go with Ben Lui neighbour Beinn a’Chleibh. 

Falls of Falloch 

Location: Falls of Falloch

The path from the small car park to Falls of Falloch is not too long, it is the perfect leg stretcher.

Falls of Falloch is a popular waterfall where you will see adventurous people jumping from platforms of rocks at the peak of the waterfall or an expert kayaker attempting the descent.

Recently, the ‘Woven Sound’ was installed which provides a different viewpoint for the falls. 

Location: Ben More Trail Head

Ben More is a pyramid-shaped highland peak at 3,852 feet with a challenging hiking route.

You can complete the Ben More along with the sister mountain Stob Binnein in one complete hike which will take approximately seven hours. The start of the route zig-zags along a farm track and then opens to the most wonderful views. 

The parking for this one is tricky, you can park along the road at Ben More Farm or there is a larger car park half a mile down the road at Loch Lubhair. Overall, this is a challenging but rewarding hike. 

Falls of Dochart

Location: Falls of Dochart Car Park

The Falls of Dochart runs under a scenic bridge in the charming village of Killin. You can climb the rocks and admire the misty spray rising from the water as the river crashes into the rocks.

Also, the falls travel past the small island known as the Clan Macnab Burial Grounds. Killin is a beautiful stop with lots to do.

You can relax at the Falls of Dochart Inn, visit Bridge End Gift Shop or grab a coffee from one of the small coffee shops. In addition, there are plenty of walking trails in the area.

Loch Earn 

Loch Earn is a long beautiful freshwater lake with stunning natural scenery and wildlife. It is a perfect place for fishing, boating and camping.

The peaceful tranquil spot is great if you get good weather. Also, it is a perfect place to relax for the day. 

Ben Vorlich 

Starting Point: Ardvorlich

Ben Vorlich is a massive mountain peak standing at 989 metres tall. It is a popular climbing spot for visitors due to the spectacular views of Loch Earn and the surrounding National Park.

There are many trails for all abilities and the paths are well marked and easy to navigate. 

For keen Munro baggers, Stuc a’Chroin is a neighbouring peak which is usually bagged along with Ben Vorlich. The route begins at Ardvorlich and there is a steep scramble involved on the ascent of Stuc a’Chroin.

Location: Balquhidder

Loch Voil is a more isolated loch with limited parking. There is not much tourism here, therefore, there is a higher chance that it will be quiet.

Also, the loch is an excellent stop for kayaking, paddling or swimming.

Loch Voil is part of Rob Roy county and there are a number of historical highlights in remembrance of Scottish outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor.

Also, nearby the Balquhidder village is the gravestone for Rob Roy. 

Also, near the west end of Loch Voil is the art installation known as the lookout which is part of the BLiSS trail.

There are over twenty locations in the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park for the BLiSS trail and Loch Voil is one of them. Make sure you check it out.  

Loch Lubnaig

Location: Loch Lubnaig Car Park

Loch Lubnaig is a stunning loch located between beautiful mountains, Ben Ledi, Benvane and Ben Vorlich. The loch is a perfect location for kayakers, canoeists, fishing and wild swimming.

Also, there are plenty of picnic areas and places to camp along the banks of the loch. 

If you find yourself in the South car park, you can venture to a stunning viewpoint called Sloc-Nan Sithenach, also known as the Faerie Hollow. The Faerie Hollow is one of the first stops on the BLiSS trail.

Location: Ben Ledi Car Park

Ben Ledi is a popular walk from the town of Callender and it is one of the highest peaks in the Trossachs region.

Interestingly, Ben Ledi translates from Gaelic meaning ‘Hill of the Long Shoulder’. There is a small parking area over the bridge just off the A84.

The walk will take four hours and at the top of the Corbett, you will get the most amazing views.

Bracklinn Falls

Location: Bracklinn Falls Car Park

Bracklinn Falls is a very popular beauty spot. There was a bridge which was built by Queen Victoria, however, it was destroyed in 2004 due to severe flooding.

Now, there is a new bridge which was built in 2020, however, it has been closed due to structural work. 

The path from the car park to Bracklinn Falls provides good views of the falls and the gorge below. Also, the walk can be steep in some areas.

The path crosses back over the Keltie Water at a wide pool known as Scout Pool and returns to the car park by a minor road.

Also, Bracklinn Falls is a popular waterfall for those who are coming from Stirling .

Ben A’an 

Location: Ben A’an Car Park

Ben A’an is a fairly steep walk, however, it is definitely doable for everyone. It is one of the smaller hills in the Trossachs and can be done in a two-hour round trip.

Also, it is worth it as the views at the summit are breathtaking and fantastic. There is a car park that you can park in just off the A821.

This is also a great place to go mountain biking, also you can enjoy the atmospheric forests, open moorland, views of crags and a suburb vista of the surrounding landscape at the top.

Loch Katrine

Location: Loch Katrine Visitor Centre

Loch Katrine is a 13km-long freshwater loch in the heart of Loch Lomond. In Gaelic, Loch Katrine translates to ‘ Highland Robber ’.

Also, you can recreate your own picnic scene at Brenachoile Point which was used as a setting for an episode of Outlander. 

You can take a cruise along the loch in one of Scotland’s First steamships, the SS Sir Walter Scott. Going on one of the cruises along Loch Katrine is a perfect way to spend the afternoon.

The steamship was launched in 1899 and still ferries passengers from the Trossachs Pier.

From Loch Katrine, you can walk up a well-marked trail to the top of Primrose Hill where you can get amazing views over the beautiful stretch of water. Also, you will get superb views of the Arrochar Alps.

Location: Kinlochard Starting Point

Loch Ard boasts the Loch Ard Sculpture Trails offering a perfect way to explore the stunning views of the national park and abundant wildlife .

There are over fifteen miles of tracks to explore, over a variety of terrain to cycle, walk or horse ride, where you can discover sculptures as well as the hidden wildlife in their natural habitats. 

Go Country Adventure Park is located on Loch Ard and offers water sports, including hamster ball and kayaking. 

Inversnaid Falls

Location: Upper Inversnaid Falls Car Park

Inversnaid is one of the most remote and well hidden waterfalls in the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

The waterfall is amazing, loch is lovely, and it is guaranteed to be a quiet spot. Also, the car parking is free and it is an excellent spot for camping. 

Driving around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is one of the most magical drives in Scotland and the United Kingdom. However, you can explore your own country and sit by the banks of Loch Lomond.

There are so many beautiful landscapes, Munros, lochs and waterfalls to explore. Also, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs is a great place for adventurous travellers.

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is a good day trip from Inverness . Rob Roy Way , John Muir Way and the Three Lochs Way are long distance walking trails where you can walk through sections of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

Planning a Loch Lomond Day Trip from Glasgow & Edinburgh

Last Updated on January 22, 2024

by Daniella Lynn Theis

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Planning a Loch Lomond day trip from Glasgow (or even Edinburgh) is an excellent way to see one of Scotland’s most beautiful natural areas even if you’re slightly short on time.

“By yon bonnie banks and by yon bonnie braes, where the sun shines bright on Loch Lomond” –  these are the opening words of an old Scottish folk song. It is said that one of the captured soldiers of bonnie Prince Charlie already spoke of the beauty of Loch Lomond in a letter to his sweetheart back in 1745 and it was on his words the song was based.

The song has been covered by AC/DC as well as Scottish band Runrig, and thousands of visitors head to Loch Lomond’s shores each year. If you too are planning your own visit to Loch Lomond, then you have definitely made the right choice.

Like all the national parks in the UK, entry to Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park is free, and it is easily accessible by car or public transport from Glasgow or Edinburgh.

Table of Contents

Getting from Glasgow to Loch Lomond

There are several ways to get to the loch no matter if you have a car available or not and should you not want to plan your own itinerary, you can always choose to embark on a day tour.

By Organised Tour

While it is possible to organise your own itinerary and go from Glasgow to Loch Lomond independently, some organised tours offer a great way to see the loch’s beauty alongside a knowledgeable guide.

Tours leave from central locations within the city and mean you do not have to worry about public transport times.

This day tour or this day tour gives you the chance to visit the Trossachs National Park, enjoy a 1-hour cruise across Loch Lomond as well as taking you to Stirling Castle  – one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland – to finish off your day. You can also have a similar experience on a private tour.

This other fun-filled tour starts at Stirling castle and then takes you around several sites of the loch via mini-coach before giving you a glimpse of what it feels like walking the West Highland Way – one of Scotland’s most famous long-distance walking routes – before a finale pit-stop at the world-known Distillery of Glengoyne.

Taking the train is definitely a great way to get to the loch quickly. Two direct trains run from the centre of Glasgow to different parts of the loch.

One of them runs to Balloch – at the south end of the loch – while the other runs to Arrochar & Tarbet – more on the north end of the loch. Both train stations are reasonably close to the loch, and you will not have to walk more than 15 minutes to reach the shores of Loch Lomond.

Both trains run from Glasgow Queen Street station. The Balloch service runs twice every hour throughout the day up until about 11pm, and you can reach the shores of Loch Lomond in under an hour.

Balloch is the final destination of the line, so there is no need to worry about missing your stop. This service offers a very cheap way to commute from Glasgow to Loch Lomond. Click here to view schedules .

The train going to Arrochar & Tarbet is part of the West Highland railway line and does not run as frequently as the train to Balloch, but it is worth noting that this route is considered one of the most scenic train routes in the country.

The service runs about every two hours, and the journey time to Arrochar & Tarbet is a little longer than the one to Balloch. However, within a bit over an hour, you will be at the loch’s north shores, so it is still a great way to get from Glasgow to Loch Lomond.

The station at Arrochar & Tarbet is about a 15-minute walk away from the shores. The last train returning to Glasgow from this station is around 10 pm and it is cheaper to book a return ticket rather than two single tickets. Click here to view schedules .

Glasgow’s Buchanan bus station is right in the centre of Glasgow, and two Citylink bus routes cross the National Park and Loch Lomond.

While the train does offer a very comfortable way to get to Loch Lomond, going by bus will give you a wider variety of stops and places to visit during your day in Loch Lomond.

Whichever service you choose, be sure to say to your driver where you are planning to get off, as otherwise, they might not always stop unless passengers are waiting to board at the stop.

The service going to Fort William and Skye from Glasgow has stops at Balloch, Duck Bay Beach, Luss, Inverbeg, Tarbet and Inveruglas; all of which are close to Loch Lomond.

The other route going to Oban/Campbeltown has stops at Arrochar and Ardgartan. Just like the other bus, it does continue to other stops in the national park, such as ‘Rest and be Thankful’, but these do not offer direct access to Loch Lomond.

This service also runs several times a day, approximately every two to three hours but the last service running from Glasgow is at about 6pm. Click here to view schedules .

Getting from Glasgow to Loch Lomond by car is relatively easy. The city has several links to the motorway, and depending on the traffic you can get to Balloch in as little as half an hour.

From Glasgow, you would take the M8 and then change to the M898 to the Erskine Bridge, then take the A82 into the National Park.

If you are planning to go further north than Balloch, then the route is the same; you just keep going on the A82 taking you to other destinations such as Tarbet. The drive along the loch is lovely, and you will already be able to soak up a lot of Loch Lomond’s beauty on your journey along the shores.

However, be aware: While the M8 is a multiple carriageway, the A82 is not and once you are past Dumbarton it could be that you will have to queue behind lorries, buses and behind other drivers. On a sunny day, Loch Lomond is not just popular with tourists but is also visited by many locals.

The route along the loch is quite narrow and overtaking is not recommended unless the area is designated as such. Best is to check for any roadworks or delays on Traffic Scotland’s web page.

If you’re looking to rent a car, then it’s best to browse options on Rentalcars.com which aggregates prices across many major car hire companies.

It’s also worth considering taking out an excess insurance policy from iCarHireInsurance to ensure you don’t need to pay any deductible if making a claim.

Getting from Edinburgh to Loch Lomond

Due to Loch Lomond being in such close proximity to Glasgow, planning a day trip from Glasgow is a bit more straightforward and involves less travel time, but this should most definitely not dishearten you from planning your Edinburgh to Loch Lomond day trip.

While it does take longer to get there overall, Loch Lomond is still easily accessible from Edinburgh by either public transport, tour or car.

These tours offer a great way to enjoy your day from a comfortable minibus or another form of transport with a fun-packed itinerary and a knowledgeable guide.

This great tour from Edinburgh offers you the chance to visit the Trossachs National Park with a small tour group via Stirling Castle and Glengoyne Distillery.

It includes live commentary on board the bus, as well as the option to choose between a boat ride on the loch or a beautiful walk along its shores. If you’re not interested in visit the distillery, you can also choose this day tour.

If you’re going to Loch Lomond from Edinburgh, you will have to go via Glasgow. There are no direct trains from Edinburgh to Loch Lomond, but trains are running from Edinburgh’s main train stations to Glasgow Queen Street all day – most of the time there are several trains within the hour, so you will not find it hard to find one to match your schedule.

Once in Glasgow, you can choose either of the services mentioned above. Overall you will be able to reach Loch Lomond from Edinburgh within 2.5 hours or less. Click here to view schedules .

As with trains, you will have to change at Glasgow’s Buchanan bus station to board your bus to Loch Lomond. Buses from Edinburgh’s bus station run to Glasgow every 15 to 30 minutes, and you will likely only have to walk a few steps to board your connecting bus.

Traffic can differ depending on what time of day you chose to travel, and it is important to note that you might spend about three to four hours travelling.

However, the buses do offer a cheaper alternative to the trains, you can click here to view the schedules .

If you choose to go by car, you will not find it hard. Edinburgh offers a great connection to Scotland’s motorways, and you can reach the loch within about 90 minutes.

There are two main routes you can choose from here: Either you go via Glasgow or via Stirling. Both ways are easy enough to follow and will get you there around the same time.

Loch Lomond Day Trip Itinerary

You can either start your day in Balloch or in Arrochar & Tarbet. Both are very convenient to get to and have visitor centres to set you up for a good start to your day. This itinerary could easily be done vice versa.

Balloch is at the south shore of Loch Lomond. It has some great cafes, pubs and restaurants should you wish to enjoy a meal or early lunch before you start exploring.

The south shores will give you a taste of what beautiful scenery is to come, and there is a VisitScotland Information centre conveniently located directly opposite the train station in the centre of Balloch.

Through the centre, you will have access to local maps of Loch Lomond as well as be able to pick up a timetable for the Loch Lomond Waterbus and Ferry Services.

If you are looking to start your day with a little walk, you can walk along Balloch Castle Country Park at the eastern end of the village. The castle these days is actually a building constructed at the beginning of the 19 th century, but the grounds used to have another castle that was built around 1300.

It will not be hard to guess why the location was chosen for either building: The views of Loch Lomond are spectacular, and the area of the castle towards the loch does create some majestic ambience. The walk will take approximately 90 minutes and is moderately easy as long as you are wearing a good pair of shoes.

You can also hire bikes and boats from the beach at Loch Lomond Shores or take a cruise on the loch from the pontoon and maybe find some mythical kelpies lurking in the depths of the waters.

Other options are to visit the Loch Lomond Bird Prey Sanctuary located in Balloch or, should the Scottish weather be that tiny bit to ‘dreich’ for outdoor activities, you could visit Loch Lomond Sea Life Aquarium.

Your next stop should be the village of Luss which is halfway between Balloch and Arrochar & Tarbet. It is quite small, but it is stunning! The village itself is a conservation village, and its old cobblestone buildings make you feel like you step back in time.

If you started your day by taking the train or bus to Balloch, you could easily take a bus up to Luss. Timetables will be available from the visitor centre. If you are looking for a more immersive experience on your day trip to Loch Lomond, then it is also possible to catch a water taxi to Luss Pier.

Once there, the village has access to several great walks that will help you explore the village and the beautiful area surrounding it.

These can differ in length, and it is entirely up to you whether you want to dedicate yourself to a 30-minute walk through the village or embark on the 90-minute heritage trail.

One thing not to be missed, however, are the views of Ben Lomond that you can get from Luss Pier. Walk along, and I am sure you will stand in awe.

If you are looking to have a bite to eat or a ‘cuppa’ to warm up, then Luss has a variety of shops and places to eat and drink.

Arrochar & Tarbet

Tarbet is actually the one out of the two villages that is closer to Loch Lomond while Arrochar is closer to Loch Long.

Arrochar & Tarbet train station is on the West Highland Railway line, and you can walk from there to Tarbet quite easily. The bus will likely drop you off at the ‘centre’ of Tarbet before either taking the turn towards Campbelltown or Fort William. If you are arriving by car, you will get to Tarbet by just following the A82 from Balloch and Luss.

Depending on your time budget and the time of year, the pier at Tarbet provides access to the loch, and a variety of cruise options are available.

From Tarbet, you can walk the Tarbet Isle Walk. It is only 1.2 miles or 2km long and a relatively easy circuit. You will cross through pine woods and oak woodland with excellent views over Loch Lomond and Tarbet.

A footpath links Tarbet to Arrochar, and the distance is approximately 1.5 miles. It is definitely worth taking a walk towards Arrochar as it will actually allow you to cross the narrow path between Loch Lomond and Loch Long offering you spectacular views of another beautiful loch in Scotland so you can tick two off of the list.

There is a visitor centre and a little tea room in Tarbet should you need to warm up after a long day of adventures and hillwalking. If you’re looking for a great place for lunch or dinner, both The Slanj (located close to the train station) and Cù Mara Bistro in Arrochar are excellent options.

Have more Time?

If you have more than one day in Loch Lomond, here are some suggestions for the best things to do.

Venture across the Loch to Balmaha

Balmaha is a small village on the eastern shores of Loch Lomond. It has a visitor centre, local amenities and some stunning nature walks . One thing definitely worth doing is the climb up Conic Hill . The hill is only approximately 400 metres high, but the climb is quite steep, so be aware! However, the views will make you forget any troubles you had during the climb.

It is from Balmaha you can also visit the small island of Inchcailloch. Balmaha’s bay provides the closest starting point for any crossing to the island.

Boats run from Luss to Balmaha, but it is worth noting that they do not run all year round. It is best to visit an information centre at Balloch or Arrochar and Tarbet for up to date timetables and information if you are planning to get to Balmaha by boat.

There is a bus service between Balloch and Balmaha runs throughout the day, so it is possible to get there by other means of public transport.

If you are going by car, Balmaha can be reached by driving from Balloch to Drymen village. In Drymen village, turn left on to B837 for Balmaha.

Explore other parts of Trossachs National Park

It is a lovely place, and you will not be disappointed if you choose to stray from Loch Lomond even further into the depths of the park. If you take the bus or drive towards Campbelltown, you will pass the famous spot ‘Rest and be thankful’ – and thankful you will be!

The view comprises a mountain pass ahead of you from which you can see the windy road ahead for miles. Other great bits of the park include Callander, an old town from which you can choose to partake several walks or Killin.

Take in more of Scotland’s beauty outside the park

The A82 continues on towards the West Highlands and will take you to Glencoe . I don’t think there will ever be a time in my life where I do not find Glencoe beautiful. I will marvel and be melancholy at the green mountains, the incredible glens, the waterfalls and summits all my life.

If you want to see Scotland’s outstanding beauty, then Glencoe should be on your list if you have the time. Should you not have a car you do not need to worry: The West Highland railway runs through Glencoe, and you can even listen to an audio tour created by Scottish Natural Heritage.

If you want to use Loch Lomond as a base to explore the Scottish Highlands, this is an excellent option.

They created a free app that provides an audio guide to several scenic train routes in Scotland. If you are going by bus, towards Fort William, the coach might not stop, but you will be able to enjoy the views nonetheless.

Another great place is the seaside town Oban – the self-proclaimed ‘seafood capital of Scotland.’ To be fair, I did have the best fish and chips I ever had in my life there, hands down. So potentially this is true. Oban always has something going on, and you will be able to partake in boat trips, visit museums or soak in some local musical talent at one of the pubs.

Oban can easily be reached by car or public transport. If you board the West Highland Railway at Arrochar and Tarbet, it will take you straight there, and buses run to Oban from several stops along the loch.

Where to Stay in Loch Lomond

Global B&B  – A charming bed and breakfast located in the village of Luss, this is an excellent, quaint place to rest your head when visiting Loch Lomond. They have a handful of lovely, comfortable and clean rooms available and a great breakfast is included each morning.

The Loch Lomond Arms Hotel  – If you’re on the hunt for a bit more luxury on your trip to Loch Lomond, then you can’t go wrong with this plush hotel. They have a range of luxe and stunning rooms available and there is also a great restaurant and bar on site.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other options in Loch Lomond!

Going on a Loch Lomond day trip from Glasgow or Edinburgh is an excellent and easy way to enjoy the beautiful Scottish countryside while not venturing too far from the city.

Are you visiting Loch Lomond? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments below!

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About Daniella Lynn Theis

Daniella is a writer for The World Was Here First. Based in in Glasgow, Scotland, she has lived in several different countries and is always on the hunt for adventures, trying to find even the most hidden secrets for any destination. In her spare time, she loves photography and finding new eateries and things to do in or around Glasgow.

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17 Epic Things to Do in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs

Within easy reach from both Glasgow and Edinburgh , it’s no wonder Loch Lomond easily tops the list of the best places to visit in Scotland . The pristine and unspoilt beauty of this freshwater Scottish loch leaves travellers spellbound.

It is the largest lake by surface area in Great Britain and is part of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, the first national park in Scotland, followed by the Cairngorms.

The Highland Boundary Fault Line cuts through this loch, separating the gentler terrain of lowlands and the mountainous landscape of the Scottish Highlands.

From picturesque villages and untamed wilderness to the rolling hills and vast lakes – there is so much to see and do in this part of Scotland.

Also, Loch Lomond is a popular destination for a day trip from Glasgow .

Best Things to Do in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

1. enjoy a leisurely stroll in luss.

Nestled on the western shore, the quaint village of Luss is one of the best places to visit in Loch Lomond. For such a tiny village, there are plenty of wonderful things to do in Luss .

Wander along the streets to admire the neatly lined charming cottages adorning various colourful seasonal floral displays. Most of the current buildings were constructed in the 18th and 19th centuries to accommodate workers from the nearby slate quarries and mills.

Walk to the Luss pier to catch one of the most gorgeous views of Loch Lomond and the imposing Ben Lomond.

On hot summer days, the scenic waterfront teems with people enjoying a picnic and sunbathing. Also, Luss is a hub for water sports and adventure activities.

Hike to the nearby Luss Hills to enjoy a superb panoramic view over Loch Lomond, the islands and the Arrochar Alps.

Another must-visit tourist attraction is the historic Luss Parish Church, an important religious site built in 1875.

2. Take a Scenic Boat Cruise

If this is your first visit to this loch, a great way to start knowing this area is by jumping onto a sightseeing cruise on its serene water. It is one of the main activities in Loch Lomond and should be part of your Glasgow Itinerary as it’s not too far from the loch.

Peacefully drifting across the calm water presents a great opportunity to admire the stunning islands, mountains and charming lakeside villages. Also, Loch Lomond is renowned for its rich wildlife. So, keep your eyes peeled out.

There are many sorts of boat trip options, including circular boat trips, island cruises, and linear routes. Most of the boat trips depart from Luss and Balloch.

Many of these tours include live commentary on board. From your knowledgeable guide, you will learn about the intriguing local history and heritage of this area.

3. Climb the Mighty Ben Lomond

Located on the eastern bank of Loch Lomond, the mighty Ben Lomond is one of the most popular mountains in Scotland. It is Scotland’s most southerly Munro and is 974 metres high. A Munro is a mountain in Scotland with a height of over 3,000 feet.

It takes around 4.5 to 6 hours to walk Ben Lomond . The hike starts from the car park of Rowardennan, a tiny hamlet on Loch Lomond.

There are two paths to reach the summit. The tourist trail is the easiest one. Although the trail is lengthy, the hike is not very challenging. Experienced hikers, can enjoy the rough path through the Ptarmigan Ridge, which is much shorter but quite steep and rocky in places. 

Whichever path you choose, you will surely get an absolutely breathtaking view of Loch Lomond and its many islands. From the summit, there are stunning views in all directions. On a clear day, you can see Loch Katrine and the Trossachs, Loch Sloy and the Arrochar Alps.

4. See Loch Lomond’s Iconic View from Conic Hill

Climbing Conic Hill is one of the best activities in Loch Lomond. The peak rises to 361m, and the views from the summit are truly spectacular.

You can easily hike this hill on a day trip from Edinburgh .

The hike to Conic Hill starts from the car park in Balmaha and takes around 2-3 hours to complete. The path is well-built and easy to follow.

The pathway goes through a forest, steadily climbing up. But very soon, you will come across a plateau from where you can admire the iconic panoramic view over Loch Lomond.

Also, Conic Hill sits on the Highland Boundary Fault, a geological feature separating the lowlands and highlands of Scotland.

From the top of Conic Hill, the change of scenery caused by the fault line is so evident. The islands across Loch Lomond and the ridge of Conic Hill are all on the fault line.

After the hike, be sure to ramble around the pretty hamlet of Balmaha. Watch out for the statue of Tom Weir, a Scottish climber, author and broadcaster. You can also catch a ferry from Balmaha to visit Inchcailloch Island.

5. Picnic in Balloch Castle Country Park

Stretching over 200 acres, Balloch Castle Country Park is the only country park in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. It is a lovely place for a day out with family. 

There are several nature trails, woodlands and gardens. Wander around the park to visit the Fairy Glen, Chinese Garden, Pleasure Grounds, Quarry Pond, Kitchen Garden and Secret Garden. You will get a fantastic view over Loch Lomond. Also, this is a perfect spot for a picnic by the lake.

In Scotland, you are never too far away from a castle . At the heart of the country park, you will find the elegant Balloch Castle. The Tudor Gothic mansion was built in the early 19th century as a family home for John Buchanan of Ardoch, a Glasgow-based merchant. 

In 1980, this area was recognised as a country park. It has hosted the Loch Lomond Highland Games previously. Also, musical events featuring artists like Runrig, REM and Oasis took place here.

6. Seek Out the Thrills of Outdoor Activities

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies. There are numerous hiking trails and cycle paths around the national park for all fitness levels. 

For beginner cyclists, the scenic west Loch Lomond cycle path is perfect. The linear route starts from Balloch and runs north along the loch to Tarbet. Experienced mountain bikers will enjoy exploring the Three Great Glens cycle route.

If you are ready to get wet and wild, take a refreshing plunge into the water of this loch. On a hot summer day, it is hard to resist a dip in the lake.

Also, paddle boarding, windsurfing, canoeing and kayaking are very popular activities. You can even sail to the tiny islands over Loch Lomond.

For golf lovers, there are many golf clubs around the park, including Aberfoyle Golf Club and Callander Golf Club.

7. Take in Breathtaking Views from Ben A’an

The hike to Ben A’an is one of our favourites in Scotland. You can easily visit Ben A’an on a day trip from Glasgow . It takes just over an hour to drive here from Glasgow.

Located at the heart of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Ben A’an is often described as a mountain in miniature. It is only 340 metres high, and the hike takes about 3-4 hours to finish.

The trail starts just across the road from the car park. The path is well-trodden and well-maintained. It goes through the edge of a woodland. After some time, you will notice the rocky summit of Ben A’an poking behind the trees. Continue the steep ascend until you see the first glimpse of Loch Katrine. 

From the summit, you will get the iconic view of Loch Katrine, Ben Venue and the Arrochar Alps. Although the hike is quite short, the view is extremely rewarding.

So, if you are visiting Loch Lomond, don’t forget to add this wee hill to your itinerary.

8. Unleash Your Inner Explorer at Inchcailloch Island

There are around 23 islands and several tiny islets in the vast stretch of Loch Lomond. 

Among them, Inchcailloch Island is the most accessible one. There are frequent ferry services from both Balmaha and Luss during the summer months. 

This island has a rich wildlife and is part of the Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve. Inchcailloch means isle of the old woman in Gaelic, which refers to Saint Kentigerna, an Irish missionary who used to live here in the 8th century.

After landing, you can find the information board showing all the nature trails around the island. You can hike the entire island in a couple of hours.

Follow the path that goes to the highest point of the island. From the summit, you will get a spectacular view of Loch Lomond and the surrounding landscapes.

Also, visit the ruined church dedicated to Saint Kentigerna and the ancient burial ground. It has graves of ancestors of the famous Scottish outlaw, Rob Roy MacGregor. 

9. Admire the Picturesque Views from The Cobbler

Easy access from Glasgow makes this mountain very popular with day-trippers. Also known as Ben Arthur, this rocky summit resembles a cobbler leaning over at work. Hence the name. It’s one of the most climbed hills in the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

This mountain has three summits. There are two routes to the top. The easiest is through the rear, where you climb a set of steps to the top. Adventurous walkers would choose to walk up the front face, which requires some scrambling.

The hard work is soon forgotten as you gaze over the outstanding view. You can see the Loch Long, Loch Lomond and other surrounding mountains of the Highlands.

If you are brave enough, climb up the rocky pinnacle of Cobbler, which is infamously called ‘threading the eye of the needle’.

After the hike, wander around the tranquil village of Arrochar and Loch Long.

10. Take a Steamboat Cruise on Loch Katrine

Immortalised in Sir Walter Scott’s famous poem ‘The Lady of the Lake’, Loch Katrine sits at the heart of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. Its serene beauty has been attracting visitors since the Victorian times. As a result, this place is often considered the birthplace of Scottish tourism.

Literary geniuses such as William Wordsworth and Sir Walter Scott were inspired by Loch Katrine. Also, the famous outlaw and Scottish folk hero, Rob Roy MacGregor, was born around this area.

Enjoy the stunning lochside views and landscapes from the deck of a century-old steamship. Boat cruises depart throughout the day. You can take your bike on board and cycle back to Trossachs Pier.

Also, there are various hiking trails around the loch. You can walk or cycle to Brenachoile Point. It is a popular picnic spot. Also, Brenachoile Point appeared in the popular TV series Outlander.

Hike to the nearby Primrose Hill for a brilliant view of Ben Venue, Ben Lomond and the Arrochar Alps.

11. Enjoy a Nature Break at Killin

Located at the northeastern edge of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Killin is one of the prettiest villages in Scotland . Surrounded by rugged mountains, rivers and lochs, Killin is a picturesque place to visit. It is also a great base for various outdoor activities.

One of the main attractions of this village is the dramatic Falls of Dochart, a series of cascading waterfalls. Visitors often scramble on the rocks around the falls. You will get a spectacular view of the waterfall from the nearby bridge.

This area was once a stronghold of MacNab Clan. Their ancient burial ground is by the River Dochart, just below the waterfalls. A short walk from the village centre will take you to the ruined Finlarig Castle.

There are several walking trails around Killin. We loved the hike to Sròn a’Chlachain. Although the hill is shorter in height, the climb is pretty steep. But you will be greeted with an astounding view of Killin and Loch Tay.

12. Hike the West Highland Way along Loch Lomond

This 98-mile-long walking trail starts at Milngavie on the outskirts of Glasgow and ends at Fort William in the western Scottish Highlands. It is the first official long-distance trail in Scotland. 

Avid walkers visiting Loch Lomond will love a walk along the West Highland Way, one of the most famous walking routes in Scotland. Also, along the way, you will discover some of the most epic sceneries this country has to offer.

It typically takes 7-8 days to hike the entire trail. However, it can be walked in parts separately.

West Highland Way passes through the eastern banks of Loch Lomond. The track goes through the villages of Drymen, Balmaha, Rowardennan and Inversnaid.

Around 25 miles of stretch of West Highland Way goes along the Loch Lomond. You can walk the section from Dryman to Rowardennan and Rowardennan to Inverarnan. Needless to say, the view is phenomenal.

13. Visit the Tranquil Falls of Falloch

Tucked away on the north of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, the Falls of Falloch is a very photogenic waterfall. It is a popular rest stop for travellers road-tripping on the A82, which runs from Glasgow to Inverness via Fort William.

From the car park, it’s a brief walk through the tree-lined path. There are picnic benches to rest and enjoy the stunning view of the waterfall.

From here, River Falloch passes through Glen Falloch and joins Loch Lomond at Ardlui. The waterfall is 30ft high and a marvellous sight to behold.

The deep pool under the falls is perfect for a wee summer dip. It is a popular spot for wild swimming in Scotland.

Also, don’t forget to visit the Woven Sound installation to get a unique perspective of the Falls of Falloch. Constructed from steel rods by John Kennedy, it shows extracts from poet Dorothy Wordsworth’s diary.

14. Discover SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium

Loch Lomond is home to a wealth of marine life. You can see a glimpse of them with other sea creatures from around the world at this visitor attraction.

Come rain or shine, it is a great place to visit with your family. Located on the southern shore of the loch in Balloch, this is one of the best kid-friendly tourist attractions in Loch Lomond.

It has over 5,000 underwater creatures with seven themed zones. They have the largest collection of sharks in Scotland. Kids will love spending time at the interactive Rockpool. Head to the observation deck for a stunning view of the loch and the surrounding mountains. Also, they host many enjoyable events all year round.

15. Get Active in Callander

Often referred to as the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, Callander is a small town near Stirling . Surrounded by beautiful mountains and woodlands of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Callander is a perfect base for exploring this area. You can get here by public transport from the historic city of Stirling .

The Main Street is lined with various souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes. Also, this pretty town was featured in the original Doctor Findlay’s Casebook television series.

There are plenty of hiking and cycling opportunities here. Take a short hike to the beautiful Bracklinn Falls. This peaceful nature trail is suitable for all visitors. The nearby Callander Crags hike is more challenging. But from the top, you will get a sweeping view of the town, Loch Venachar, Ben Ledi and the Highland Boundary Fault.

The Rob Roy Way passes through this town. It is a long-distance walking trail from Drymen to Pitlochry.

16. Take a Distillery Tour

A visit to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park would be incomplete without experiencing a distillery tour of Scotland’s most popular produce, Whisky.

There are several local distilleries and breweries around Loch Lomond. But only a handful of them offer guided tours. 

The closest one from the park is the Glengoyne Distillery. Founded in 1833, this is a single-malt whisky distillery. Take a guided tour to learn more about this place and the process of whisky making. You will get to know about the history of this distillery, how it has grown and

how its famous whiskey is produced. At the end of the tour, you will have a tasting session.

Also, you can take a tour of the Auchentoshan Distillery and Deanston Distillery. Both of them lie in close proximity to the park.

If you love beer and ale, then Loch Lomond Brewery is worth a visit. This family-run microbrewery is located in Alexandria.

17. Visit Rest and be Thankful Viewpoint and Inveraray

Located 803 ft above sea level on A83, Rest and Be Thankful is a popular viewpoint on the western boundary of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. It divides the scenic Glen Kinglas from Glen Croe.

From this viewpoint, you can see the old military road engineered by General Wade in the mid-18th century. There is a stone marker bearing the words Rest and Be Thankful and showing the history of this place.

The name was given by travellers, who would climb the steep hill and be thankful that they made it to the top.

Continue on A83 to visit the historic town of Inveraray . Visit the fairytale-like Inveraray Castle, hike to Dun Na Cuaiche viewpoint, stroll along the shore of serene Loch Fyne and sample some delicious fish & chips.

Map of the Attractions in Loch Lomond

Here is a map of all the amazing places around the national park mentioned in this article. Click on the link to save the Google Map on your phone, which you can use later. It also works offline.

How to Reach Loch Lomond

Car – From Glasgow, it takes around 40 minutes via A82 to get to Balloch through Dumbarton. If you are coming from Edinburgh, drive along M8 and join A82 at Old Kilpatrick.

It takes around an hour and a half to reach the shores of Loch Lomond from the capital city. To reach Balloch from Stirling, follow A811 via Drymen.

Train – The train line to Balloch runs from Glasgow. So, if you are visiting Loch Lomond from Edinburgh, you will need to go to Glasgow first, which is very easy to reach by public transport. 

There are frequent train services leaving from Glasgow Queen Street Low Level towards Balloch, and the journey takes around 50 minutes.

If you are going to Luss or Balmaha, catch a local bus operated by McColl’s, from just outside the Balloch train station.

Bus – The bus for Loch Lomond leaves from Buchanan bus station in Glasgow and is run by Citylink. Bus stops at Balloch, Luss, Tarbet and other places on the shore of the loch.

It takes around 50 minutes by bus to reach Luss from Glasgow. If you are visiting here in the peak of summer, book your bus tickets online well in advance.

How to Get Around Loch Lomond

Driving is probably the best way to explore this national park. It would give you more flexibility and save time. But if you are visiting here without a car, there are plenty of public transport options, depending on which part of the park you intend to visit. 

Local bus services around Loch Lomond are run by McColl’s. Catch bus number 305 to visit Luss from Balloch. Bus number 309 would take you from Balloch to Balmaha. 

Another fun way to travel to different places across Loch Lomond is by ferry. You can board a waterbus to reach Inveruglas, Inversnaid, Tarbet, Rowardennan, Luss, Balmaha and Balloch.

Over the years, we have visited this picturesque part of Scotland many times, and each time, we found something new to do or explore. 

We hope this guide was helpful in planning your own adventure around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.

Love, Moumita & Sankha.

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• Central & West Scotland

Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond, Scotland, is a gorgeous expanse nestled in the heart of the Trossachs National Park and home to some of Scotland’s most exciting attractions and activities. You best believe us when we say there are many things to do in Loch Lomond!

You can experience spectacular hiking trails, wondrous wildlife, and world-class golf courses, stay in a wilderness lodge, and enjoy unforgettable outdoor activities while visiting one of Scotland’s most beautiful natural attractions.

There are so many things to do in Loch Lomond that it can be overwhelming to plan your holiday. Read our guide for what should be on your to-do list while visiting Loch Lomond.

In This Post

30 Things to Do in Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is magnificent; there’s no other way to put it.

The town sits at the foot of Ben Lomond, close to the Highland boundary fault line that splits the Lowlands and the Highlands. This makes it an iconic location for hikers, climbers, and other nature lovers who want nothing more than to scale some of Scotland’s top Munros.

The Lomond Loch is the largest lake in Britain, spanning 39 kilometres into the Trossachs National Park, which means the Loch Lomond shores are always within view as you explore the surrounding area. You can enjoy days filled with water sports like jet skiing, boat cruises, paddle boarding, and wild swimming.

Cap off your day of exploring the West Highland with some sensational camping, spotting some of the rarest wildlife in Scotland, like golden eagles. Or, t ake a visit to the Loch’s shores and enjoy a romantic evening amidst the bountiful nature of Loch Lomond.

But before you get overwhelmed, let’s cover some of the most quintessential things to do in Loch Lomond & Scotland.

Explore the Towns & Villages of Loch Lomond

Many small towns and villages in the Loch Lomond area are just waiting for you to visit. These are home to their own culture, history, and delectable traditional foods. Here’s our pick of some of the best ones:

The quaint village of Luss is one of the most popular places for travellers to start their journey into Loch Lomond. With plenty of accommodation like the Loch Lomond Lodge, why not stay awhile?

Situated on the loch shore, Luss is a special place to stay for a few days before venturing out for camping in the national park.

It has an intricate history dating back 1,500 years when St Kessog came to Loch Lomond, which Luss loves to celebrate. During the spring and summer, you can enjoy great walks along the picturesque cabins of Luss that are lined with freshly gathered flowers.

Located up the west road from the loch’s shores is the small town of Callander, many people’s gateway into the Scottish highlands. With shops, a leisure lodge, golf courses, and many other things to see and do in Callander, it’s well worth the visit while you’re in Loch Lomond.

Callander boasts numerous attractions , including a natural beauty that shows off where the Lowlands meet the Highlands. There are nature trails that show off absolutely stunning sights like the River Keltie and Bracklinn Falls, which are both answers to the question, “What can you do in Loch Lomond for a day?”.

It’s worth spending at least a day in this riverside town , so be sure to add it to your Scottish holiday.

North of Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park, Killin is a beautiful town surrounded by the conservation nature of the national park.

Enjoy your time in the scenic leisure town lodge surrounded by the nature of the Trossachs National Park for a mind, body and soul-soothing holiday break.

Located at the South end of Loch Lomond sits Balloch, your entryway into the jaw-dropping sights of Loch Lomond, the Trossachs National Park, and beyond.

Balloch has all the amenities you’d ever need in its city centre, like a great lodge, golf courses, restaurants, and shops. Before venturing into the park, you should prioritise spending some time exploring Balloch’s attractions.

Enjoy the Hikes & Sights of Trossachs National Park

One of the highlights of visiting Loch Lomond is the spectacular sights of the Trossachs National Park and the many adventurous activities available to do within the area. As the first national park in Scotland, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs has a special place in many visitors’ hearts and offers a splendid holiday attraction when you visit Loch Lomond.

Since most of Scotland’s population is a mere 1 hour’s drive from this park, it’s regularly jam-packed with visitors, camping tents, and events. Here are some of our favourites to do while you’re visiting the

Ben Lomond is a towering mountain on the eastern shores of Loch Lomond and one of the best places to test your hiking abilities. Many visitors love Loch Lomond for its amazing outdoor activities, and Ben Lomond is the crown jewel of the town. Scotland’s most southerly Munro stretches nearly a kilometre into the sky, dazzling outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world.

Taking roughly four and a half hours to summit , Ben Lomond is the perfect way to start an early morning hiking trip that will give you stunning views and leave you feeling refreshed.

Loch Katrine

In the very heart of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs sits a beautiful loch a few miles east of Loch Lomond. Not many people know that Loch Katrine is a freshwater loch which has been supplying Glasgow with drinkable water for the past 150 years. Loch Katrine is more than just a pleasant picnic area when wondering what to do in Loch Lomond.

Rob Roy MacGregor, one of Scotland’s most infamous Highland robbers of folklore, was said to have been born on the loch’s northernmost shore. And in 1810, Sir Walter Scott and William Wordsworth were so smitten by the Loch’s beauty that they wrote poems about Loch Katrine.

If you need even more reasons to pay Loch Katrine a visit, then you’ll be interested to know that the Loch was used as a filming location for the Scottish hit series ‘Outlander’. So, take a stroll to the forest parks around Loch Katrine at a leisurely pace and breathe in the history.

A short and quick hike, Conic Hill makes it easy to see the impressive Loch Lomond in less than an hour’s climb. If you’re overwhelmed by the thought of scaling Ben Lomond, Conic Hill is a great alternative option.

At its summit, Conic Hill offers an absolutely gorgeous view of not only the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, but the Arrochar Alps and Ben Lomond too! Say hello to some of the friendliest highland cattle in Scotland as you climb this popular hiking path in the Trossachs National Park.

The Devil’s Pulpit

Between towering rocks, a small stream flows, mesmerising all those who are brave enough to venture into this rocky maze. Don’t be afraid if you see red water carved its way through the rock; the red sandstone of this area gives the water a spooky dark crimson hue that frightens many people who first see it.

The Devil’s Pulpit is a mystifying attraction that makes you wonder how such a peculiar geological.

Loch Lomond Faerie Trail

From the village of Luss, you can experience the best family trails that Loch Lomond has to offer, filled with faerie houses, leisure, and magic-filled forest walks.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Loch Lomond Faerie trail with your family to experience a truly magical 2 hours of imaginative faerie-themed trails.

Glen Ogle Trail

One of Loch Lomond’s best cycling paths, the Glen Ogle trail follows the old railway line north of Loch Lomond and presents stunning views of the lowlands around the loch. The viaduct that serves as the centre attraction of the trail once ran from Callander to Oban but was knocked out of commission by an avalanche of rocks.

The Glen Ogle Trail is an excellent way to start your cycling trip through this national park, from expert to amateur.

Rob Roy Way

The Rob Roy Way is a long route that takes you across most of the border between Central Scotland and the start of the highlands that signifies the routes once used by the infamous outlaw, Rob Roy.

Taking you past glens, rivers, mountains, lowlands, and more, the Rob Roy Way is an excellent way to experience the pinnacle of Scottish scenery and is one of the most unique Loch Lomond attractions you can enjoy.

The Cobbler

The Cobbler, sometimes known as Ben Arthur, is one of the hills within Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. The views of the surrounding area are pristine from atop this hill , making a favourite for many visitors to the area.

Climbing the Cobbler needs a full day since its starting point isn’t easily accessible, but once you’re atop its rounded summit , you’ll realise that it was all worth it.

Falls of Falloch

On a hot summer’s day in Scotland, nothing is more tempting than hopping into the cool basin of the Falls of Falloch and being treated to a swim with a view. It’s an amazing reward after a long hike, and perfect for a picture or two. Some couples have even proposed within sight of the Falls.

These falls drop about 30 feet, and some adventurous visitors even use the falls as a diving board to reach the deep basin below!

Wild Camp at Trossachs

One of the best ways to experience the Trossachs National Park hills is to go wild camping in its forests. As one of only a few countries that allow wild camping, the Trossachs National Park Authority allows visitors to use the park’s land for camping wherever they’d like from March through September.

You won’t come closer to seeing the park’s beauty unless you’ve seen the sun rise over Ben A’an. Just make sure to heed the advice of the national park authority about any news or dangers in the area.

Connect fully with Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park by spending some time with friends at a camping lodge in the wilds.

Wallabies of Inchconnachan

Located in the centre of Loch Lomond, you’ll find the islands of Inchconnachan and, more importantly, Britain’s red-necked wallabies! You hear that right, you can see wallabies in their natural environment without travelling all the way to Australia.

Introduced to the uninhabited islands after the Second World War , the wallabies have flourished and are just waiting for you to snap pictures of them.

This is one of the main sites of Loch Lomond and the pride of the Trossachs National Park Authority’s conservation efforts, so make sure to be on your best behaviour when interacting with the wallabies.

The Whangie

Before reaching Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, why not take a brief trek up the Whangie hills, an easy climb with a peculiar crack separating parts of the mountains ?

Legend has it that the devil himself split Whangie in twain, but all we know is that Whangie has become a popular climbing touchstone of the region.

The Whangie is the perfect way to warm up your walking feet as you arrive at Loch Lomond and the Trossachs from other hotspot destinations like Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Try out Climbing and Bouldering

The Trossachs National Park has a celebrated tradition of climbing and bouldering, and it’s one of the best activities you can do while at Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

If you’re a keen climber and are looking to test your abilities, Loch Lomond has one of the best walls you can find at spots like The Cowal, Glen Ogle, and Ben Ledi Boulders. There are shops in the area that sell all the essentials you may need for a spontaneous climb, including shoes, chalk, matts, and harnesses.

You can also hire expert climbers to teach you the basics, possibly giving you a new hobby to enjoy!

Stargazing in Trossachs

One of the most unique qualities of the Trossachs National Park is its low level of light pollution and its dark skies. There are several Dark Skies regions within the national park, which are regions that have been designated with minimal light pollution and offer unparalleled views of the night sky.

You can stay in a lodge or camp out in the national park during March to experience the amazing night sky that usually eludes us and see the beautiful constellations that are always above us.

You can give astronomy a greater look by visiting the Stirling Astronomical Society, about an hour away.

Balloch Castle & Country Park

This Gothic-style castle is right next to the banks of the lochs and boasts an impressive history and views next to Loch Lomond’s only public country park.

Balloch has a rich lineage, with lovely landscapes around the Fairy Glen, a Chinese Garden, Pleasure Grounds, and Quarry Pond , all highlighting one or more aspects of those who owned the castle.

As one of the only castles you can find in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, Balloch Castle is a must-see while in the town.

Take on the West Highland Way

Are you an extreme lover of the outdoors? If you want nothing more than to go for a walk and then keep walking, then the West Highland Way is right for you! This 96-mile trek spans from Milngavie all the way to Fort William – Scotland’s Outdoor Capital.

The best part of the West Highland Way is that you can take it at your own pace, choosing a shorter route from the full trek or going the entire 96 miles in a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Boat Tours around Loch Lomond

In addition to the amazing nature trails around Loch Lomond, there are ways to explore the amazing lochs too. In Loch Lomond and the surrounding area are plenty of options for boat trips that take you through the gorgeous waters of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, next to lonely islands just waiting to be explored, and let you see Scotland’s wildlife from an entirely new perspective.

When you wonder where to go in Loch Lomond, don’t limit your sights to the mountains and forest parks, but take a gander and see what the waters have in store for you as well.

Lomond Cycle Paths

Hiking isn’t the only way to experience the beauty of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. In fact, some of the best landscapes can only be seen from a bicycle seat!

The West Loch Lomond Cycle Path is the most well-known, taking cyclists along the high road of the west loch shore and presenting them with ample picnic spots and stunning views. When you arrive back at Trossachs pier, reward yourself with a pint and some delicious fish and chips at Balloch.

Who wouldn’t want to feel the wind rush through their hair as they ride on bicycles through this special place?

Loch Lomond Distillery

Easily recognised with its golden stag branding, the Loch Lomond Distillery has been brewing fine Scotch single malt whisky since 1965!

Take a tour of the world-class facilities at the distillery and get a deeper understanding of the lengthy process that goes into every bottle of Loch Lomond whisky — a true Scottish natural heritage.

Taking some time for retail therapy at the Loch Lomond Distillery and then savouring your whisky at the lodge is an essential part of any visit to Loch Lomond.

Other amazing distilleries near Loch Lomond are Auchentoshan Distillery and Deanston Distillery, as well as Loch Lomond Brewery if you’re a fan of beer.

Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre

The Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre prides itself on being the premier bird of prey sanctuary in Great Britain and is a perfect place to meet some ambassador birds of prey with the family.

The Centre has daily shows that aim to engage and inform audiences about the species of birds around the region, like golden eagles while showing off their abilities.

Don’t miss your opportunity to see this fantastic show and the residents of the Bird of Prey Centre while you’re at Loch Lomond.

Loch Lomond Sea Planes

Experiencing the views of Scotland from the air rivals the summit of most mountains in Lomond. Thankfully, Loch Lomond Seaplanes offers this same experience to those who want some unforgettable memories from the sky.

Enjoy the thrill of taking off from the Loch’s waters and seeing the lochs, islands, landscapes, and mountains in a way that few have while visiting Loch Lomond, the Trossachs National Park, and beyond.

Flying aboard a seaplane is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you should definitely consider on your trip to Loch Lomond.

The Maid of the Loch

The Maid of the Loch is one of the largest conservation projects in Loch Lomond, but it’s not a natural sanctuary or wildlife habitat; it’s an old Clyde-built ship that you can visit!

Better yet, join one of the loch cruises aboard this paddle steamer and tour Lomond and the Trossachs in style. This attraction is practically  maid  for you!

SEA Life Loch Lomond Aquarium

Right next to Loch Lomond, you can find the most diverse sea life at the SEA Life Loch Lomond Aquarium, a centre that gives incredible walks through spacious exhibits for a multitude of beautiful sea creatures.

With facilities that let you and your kids interact with some of the tamer wildlife, Sea Life Loch is a one-of-a-kind place that you should definitely dedicate a few hours to.

Tom Weir Statue

A more recent addition to the attractions of Loch Lomond, the Tom Weir statue is perfectly positioned to take a picture.

Celebrating the icon’s 100th birthday, this statue now draws crowds to this national park to honour the legacy of his excellent shows like  Weir’s Way.

Enjoy a visit to the Tom Weir State while on your holiday at Loch Lomond, the Trossachs National Park, and Scotland.

Tee Off At Loch Lomond’s Golf Courses

Scotland is synonymous with golf, there’s no doubt about it. At Loch Lomond you can enjoy several amazing golf courses that show off the gorgeous views of the Trossachs national Park. There are three superb golf clubs close to the national park’s southern entrance, Loch Lomond Golf Club, Carrick Golf Club, and Cameron House Golf Course.

Golf lovers consider teeing off on the immaculate grounds of these golf clubs the real start to their holiday, their personal sanctuary from street and strife. If you are an avid player, then this may be exactly the respite that you’re looking for!

Each club offers a round at various rates, with the summer season costing the most for non-club members. Pay a visit during the shoulder season, and you’ll be able to play without breaking the bank.

Tree Zone Aerial Adventure Course

When it comes to Loch Lomond activities, the Tree Zone Aerial Adventure Course is the perfect option for both adults and children. If you’ve never been to an aerial adventure course, then you’re in for a treat! Climb across hanging platforms, fly across zip wires, and walk across a tight rope while up to 10 – 20 feet in the air.

While many of you may be reading this with white knuckles and sweaty palms, you can rest assured that this Aerial Adventure Course has safety as its number one priority. You’re tied into a harness, which makes the gaps that look down to the ground slightly less terrifying. Slightly.

If you’re looking for things to do in Loch Lomond or just fun Loch Lomond tourist attractions, then this aerial adventure zone is the place for you!

Other Things To Do in Central & West Scotland

• Things to do in Balmaha
• Things to do in Biggar
• Things to do in Drymen
• Things to do in Dunblane
• Things to do in Falkirk
• Things to do in Grangemouth
• Things to do in Lochearnhead
• Things to do in Stirling

Graham Grieve

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Away With Maja

A travel guide for loch lomond and the trossachs, scotland.

2021 brought me to Scotland for some amazing road trips around the country. One of the best experiences I had was getting to take my dad on a trip around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park! We had an amazing few days camping, hiking, and taking in the sights (and thankfully avoiding the midges!). This national park is easily accessible from Glasgow and you can visit in a day, but I really think you need a few days to explore it fully. I definitely felt like our 3 days there weren’t enough. Here’s a travel guide to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs in Scotland!

How to Get to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is located north of Glasgow. If you’re coming from Glasgow, it’s actually really accessible by public transportation. You can get the train to Balloch, or take the West Highland Line that stops at Tarbet, Ardlui, and Crianlarich. Citylink buses stop at Balloch, Luss, Tarbet, Inveruglas, Ardlui, and more. You can access a lot of places in the national park without driving! If you’re wanting to explore a national park in Scotland without a car, this would be an excellent choice.

However, nothing beats the freedom of having your own car. I love road tripping and with your own set of wheels you can simply see so much more! It’s just under an hour’s drive from Glasgow to Luss or Callander. From where I live in York , it’s just over 4 hours.

What to See: The West Bank of Loch Lomond

I would say this is arguably one of the most popular parts of the national park, as the main A82 highway runs along the west bank of Loch Lomond. For many of my trips to Scotland, this is the way I’ve driven north to the Highlands . The views over the bonnie, bonnie banks of Loch Lomond simply can’t be beat.

Balloch Castle Country Park

This park is located at the very southern end of Loch Lomond, where the A82 and the A811 roads meet. The castle is closed off and fairly derelict now, but there are great views from the park and lots of space to walk around. So many families were here having picnics and playing games! There is also free parking in the large car park here.

One of the prettiest places to visit around Loch Lomond, Luss can’t be missed. It is really popular on Instagram these days, but it’s definitely worth visiting. It’s a conservation village that was created in the 18 th and 19 th centuries for workers of the nearby slate quarries, and the cottages and houses in the town are effortlessly charming! You can take a cruise on the loch from Luss, and there are lots of picnic spots by the water. I skipped Luss on my first ever visit to the area (back in August 2018) and definitely regretted it. So I was really glad to go back on my most recent trip!

Firkin Point

This is a nice stop north of Inverbeg along the A82 and Loch Lomond. There are nice views over the water here, and it’s a good place to get out, stretch your legs, and take a break if you’re after one!

Tarbet is the intersection for your route: you can continue on the A82 north of Loch Lomond to Crianlarich, or you can turn off for the A83 and see the Arrochar Alps. There isn’t all that much here in terms of attractions, but there are Loch Lomond boat cruises available! Tarbet is my preferred rest stop of choice on the A82, as there is free parking and a free toilet in the small café.

Tarbet Isle

Just north of Tarbet, Tarbet Isle is a very small island just a few hundred meters off the shore of the loch. I’ve always like stopping here to get out and walk along the loch, clamber over the rocks, and take in the amazing views here.

There isn’t much to see around Inveruglas, but there is the Inveruglas Pyramid which shouldn’t be missed on a trip around Loch Lomond. Called An Ceann Mòr, it’s 8 meters high and you can climb to the top for an stunning view out over the loch. There is a car park here (which does charge) and also a café with toilets. If you’re wanting to bag a Munro, you can hike up Ben Vane (915 meters) from Inveruglas. The walk will take about 4.5-6.5 hours – read more about it on WalkHighlands .

What to See: The East Bank of Loch Lomond

The east bank of Loch Lomond has two of the most popular walks – both of which I do recommend doing! This is much quieter, and the road north of Balmaha is narrow. Be prepared to pull over into a widened passing place when driving here.

Conic Hill (Balmaha)

Balmaha is a popular village, with a visitor center, some options for food/drink, and access to Inchcailloch island by ferry. But the real reason the village sees so many visitors is because it’s the starting point for the walk up Conic Hill. The peak may only be 361 meters high, but it’s a steep climb through the woods and then the open hillside to get to the top. The West Highland Way long-distance trail also runs through here!

I absolutely loved this hike – the views from the top over Loch Lomond are simply incredible. It took me almost exactly 2 hours total to go up and down. If you’re looking for a short hike around Loch Lomond that offers excellent views, Conic Hill shouldn’t be missed! There is a large car park at the visitor center, but it’s also possible to get to Balmaha by bus from Balloch.

Ben Lomond is 974 meters high, and the most southerly Munro in Scotland. It is a very popular walk, but with good reason – the trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, and the views (I’m told, haha) on a clear day are stunning.

I went up the Ptarmigan trail, and down the standard “tourist” route – read about my route up Ben Lomond here ! I loved this hike so much, it was difficult but so rewarding – especially as I got to do it with my dad!! That’s right, age 67 and my dad tackled Ben Lomond as his first Munro. It was awesome to share the experience with him.

Inversnaid Falls

North of Ben Lomond but only accessibly by road via Loch Arklet, Inversnaid Falls is a pretty waterfall in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. I didn’t have quite enough time to make it here on my trip. But it’s definitely on my list for next time!

What to See: The Trossachs

A huge part of my trip to this area was around the Trossachs – there is so much more to the national park than just Loch Lomond! Here are some of the best places to see around the Trossachs.

Three Lochs Forest Drive

This is a beautiful 7-mile drive that takes in Lochan Reòidhte, Loch Drunkie, and Loch Achray. It’s only open for vehicles from March to October, and there is a charge of £2. I camped at the campsite at Loch Achray (more details below!) so I spent a lot of time in this beautiful area. This was such a peaceful part of the national park, and I loved every second I was here.

Aberfoyle and Duke’s Pass

Aberfoyle is a charming village located on the River Forth. There are lots of shops, cafes, and places to eat here – after tackling Ben Lomond, we feasted on pub grub at the Faerie Tree which was the perfect reward. Go Ape Aberfoyle is located just a few minute out of town. If you’re passing through Aberfoyle, you can’t miss a drive up Duke’s Pass ! The road itself is in great condition (one lane each way). So it’s really not as treacherous as you might think. The views from here are simply incredible! I drove this pass a few times every day (as we needed to get to/from our campsite) and it’s well worth the drive.

The real reason I came to the Trossachs? To hike up Ben A’an. This hill has been on my list for years – I was supposed to go in 2019 to break up the journey to the Isle of Skye , but that didn’t happen. I’ve been simply obsessed with going here, and I am so glad I finally got to make it happen. There is a car park at the start of the walk, which costs £3 for all day parking. It took me about 2 hours and 15 minutes there and back in total. This included about half an hour at the summit, taking photos and enjoying the views. The walk up is steep – Ben A’an is 461 meters high. But it is, quite simply, one of the most incredible places I have ever been in Scotland.

While I would like to come back again during the day, to appreciate the views from a different perspective, visiting at golden hour was phenomenal. I couldn’t believe my eyes. It was so beautiful. If you only do one hike in the national park, it should be this one. Ben A’an, you were worth the wait.

Loch Katrine

One of the most well-known lochs in the Trossachs is Loch Katrine. You can take a steamer cruise out on the lake! This was one of the things I was most looking forward to, which unfortunately we couldn’t do due to covid/limited timetables. This is absolutely on my bucket list though, and a great way to explore the loch.

Loch Venachar

This is a pretty loch, which you can see lots of as you drive along the A821 road. There are some good forestry walks around the loch, or you can just explore the shoreline. I saw several people swimming here in the morning!

Inchmahome Priory

Unfortunately I wasn’t able to make it to Inchmahome Priory, as it has been closed off/on due to covid restrictions. This priory, built in the 13 th century, is located on an island in Lake Menteith, which you can only get to by boat – both Robert the Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots visited here for sanctuary and solace. The site is run by Historic Scotland today, and the boat trip is included in the admission costs.

This town is one of the main hubs in the Trossachs. There are loads of places to eat, drink, and stay in the town – if you’re looking to base yourself around the Trossachs for your trip, I would definitely recommend staying in Callander . While the town itself has lots of amenities to offer, the two most popular attractions are just outside of town. Unfortunately I didn’t make it to Callander Crags as I didn’t have enough time, but the views from here are meant to be great.

I loved the short walk out to Bracklinn Falls , an impressive waterfall that’s about a 15-minute walk from the car park. While most of the walk to the falls is downhill, there are nice views out over the countryside as you go. There’s meant to be a nice loop (about 3 miles) that you can do. However the bridge across the falls was closed when I visited so after wandering around the west side of the falls, we headed back.

Loch Lubnaig

Loch Lubnaig is an easy loch to explore, as the A84 road runs along most of the eastern shore. I saw lots of people swimming here, even though it was pretty early in the morning! It’s nestled between several mountains and very picturesque.

Rob Roy’s Grave

In the tiny village of Balquhidder, you’ll find Rob Roy’s Grave in the churchyard. Rob Roy MacGregor was a Scottish outlaw who became a folk hero. While Sir Walter Scott may have exaggerated his life a bit, Rob Roy did become an outlaw after defaulting on a loan and going into debt – and he was eventually imprisoned before being pardoned. His grave is one of the lesser-known attractions in the Trossachs.

The small town of Killin, in the northeast part of the Trossachs, was one of my favorite places that I visited! With a waterfall, a stone circle, a castle, and a pub serving up very tasty food, what more could you ask for?!

The Falls of Dochart are right by the main A827 road that runs through the town. I did a short walk of about an hour from the waterfall around to see Kinnell Stone Circle , which is thought to be from the 2 nd or 3 rd century BCE. The stone circle is on private land, but you can see it from the path.

I took the old railway line (now a walking trail) to Finlarig Castle . The castle is on a mound in the woods, and is just ruins now. It was cool to see though, although the pit next to part of the castle was a bit grim as it was supposedly used for executions. If you want to spend a bit more time here, it’s not far to reach the western shores of Loch Tay . At 15 miles long, this is the sixth largest loch in Scotland.

Falls of Falloch

North of Loch Lomond just off the A82 road, the Falls of Falloch is a beautiful waterfall. It’s about 10 meters high, and certainly worth a stop. There is a very short trail to walk out to the viewing platform from the car park. The turn off the road can be a bit sharp and please drive carefully – I saw a car flip over (!!) in the car park when I was there. Thankfully no one was hurt at all, but it’s made me very cautious!

Crianlarich

Crianlarich is located in the very north of the national park, and it’s where the A82 and A85 roads meet. There isn’t much in the town itself, but there are plenty of good hikes to do in the surrounding area.

There are also so many more incredible hikes you can do in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park: Ben Ledi , Ben Venue , Ben Vorlich (there are two peaks called Ben Vorlich), or Ben More from Crianlarich are all on my list to do for next time.

What to See: A83 to the Arrochar Alps

West of Loch Lomond, there are a number of places to see along the A83 road and in the Arrochar Alps. One of the most popular hikes is the Cobbler , which is 884 meters high. One of my favorite views is from Rest and Be Thankful , a scenic overlook that has incredible valley and mountain panoramas. Even better when you are there first thing in the morning and can start your day with a hot bacon sandwich from the van parked there!

With so many mountain peaks to climb it can be difficult to choose! Ben Donach, Beinn Ime, or Beinn an Lochan are other popular peaks in this area. I hiked part-way up Ben Donach on my trip a few years ago, and the views were incredible.

Outside the National Park

Outside of the national park boundary, you can carry on driving the A83 from Arrochar and visit Loch Fyne . The sea loch is well-known as its oyster industry is associated with the chain of Loch Fyne restaurants. It is a beautiful drive and I’d definitely recommend it. Inverary is a pretty little town, located on the western shore of Loch Fyne. I would love to return as Inverary Castle had already closed for the day when I was here, and it looks incredible! There is also a prison/courthouse-turned-museum here.

If you’re traveling along the A85 road, you can’t miss a stop at Kilchurn Castle . These eerie ruins, on the banks of Loch Awe, are free to visit. While access is from a car park close to the road, I’d also recommend driving along the A819 road to see the incredible view of the castle from across the loch. This isn’t in the national park boundary, but if you’re in the area it’s a must-see.

While technically outside of the national park limits on the opposite end (closer to Glasgow), I loved visiting Glengoyne Distillery. You can do a distillery tour if you like, or else you can just pick up a bottle or three in the shop. Something I missed on this trip was the Devil’s Pulpit – a pretty gorge with a waterfall and stream flowing through it. It’s official name is Finnich Glen, and hopefully I can go next time I’m in the area!

Planning Your Trip

I camped for three nights at the Loch Achray campsite , which is run by the national park. It was £7 per person, per night, and we paid extra for firewood which we got on arrival. You can book your specific pitch on the website. There were no showers or drinking water (something that was made very clear before booking), but the location is just amazing. I would absolutely recommend this campsite. For more information and bookings, visit the Loch Achray campsite website .

Keep in mind that the byelaws around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park are in effect from March-September. This means you need a permit for wild camping . Wild camping is not allowed within the camping management zone during these months unless you have a permit. It is easy to buy a permit online in advance. These byelaws are in place for a reason, so please abide by them. Wild camping is legal in Scotland outside of the camping management zone, providing you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code .

If you’re not wanting to camp, there are plenty of accommodation options around the area – from basic hostels to fancy five-star hotels! You can search for hostels here , or for hotels and B&Bs here . On the west bank of Loch Lomond, I’d recommend staying around Luss . In the Trossachs, I’d recommend staying around Callander .

Looking for a tour? Check out these tours to visit Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park – many start and end in Glasgow!

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is easy enough to visit as a daytrip from Glasgow. But I am so glad I got to spend a long weekend here and explore the area more thoroughly. There are so many beautiful hikes to do, pretty villages to see, and lochs that are perfect for swimming or water activities like canoeing or kayaking. I hope this post helps you in planning a trip around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs!

Have you been to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs before? What were your favorite places?!

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[…] it’s location on the eastern side of Loch Lomond means it’s a very popular one. On my trip to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park last September, my dad and I set off to bag Ben Lomond. Here’s my guide to this […]

[…] I took four wonderful trips to Scotland over the year: Dumfries and Galloway, the Isle of Mull, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, and the Isle of Arran. Each of them was amazing in their own way, and I fully intend to explore as […]

[…] are quite a few options for daytrips from Glasgow. Glasgow is very close to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, so if you’re looking to be outdoors this would be a great choice. While Edinburgh certainly […]

[…] trail running through Scotland. It starts in Milngavie, heads up past the bonnie, bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, and through Rannoch Moor and Glencoe to finish in Fort William. It’s the trip of a lifetime […]

[…] support for the West Highland Way is strongly recommended. The section along the eastern bank of Loch Lomond is particularly challenging – constantly going up and down rocks, tree roots, etc. It’s […]

[…] of the best day trips from Stirling is Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. This area is huge with an unbelievable number of things to do – so you really need a few […]

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Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Ferne Arfin

Things to Do

• Best Hikes & Trails
• Boating & Fishing

Where to Camp

Where to stay nearby, how to get there, accessibility, tips for your visit, loch lomond.

Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park covers 720 square miles in the Scottish heartland and is within an hour's drive for about 50 percent of Scotland's population. You'll find a wide variety of landscapes here from wild mountain glens to rolling hill country, rivers, woodlands, and lochs. Also within the park, there are two extensive forest parks—Argyll and Queen Elizabeth Forest Park—and several fjord-like sea lochs where humpback whales and basking sharks have been seen.

You can take the high road or the low road around the loch because the Highland Boundary Fault that separates the Scottish Highlands from the Lowlands slices right through it, from southwest to northeast. The fault line is visible across some of the islands in the middle of the loch. Scotland's most popular vacation destination is a great place for outdoor activities of all kinds—from peaceful angling to rigorous mountain biking and everything in between.

With so much space in the mountains and along the water to explore, there are endless ways to enjoy the beauty of the park, whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a more active adventure. Beyond hiking, cycling, fishing, and paddling, there is much history to be explored and many inner islands to visit.

Some visitors choose to spend their days relaxing by the lakeside, enjoying the shopping and dining opportunities in the villages, but you could also take a more wild approach and pitch a tent in a remote section of the park. Even just driving around the park can be a huge adventure, as there are many different key areas worth exploring, from the biggest lakes to the smallest. Every return trip can offer something new in this huge national park.

Best Hikes & Trails

The park is crisscrossed with dozens of waymarked paths, long-distance hiking trails, and national cycle routes. They range from easy, family-friendly paved paths along the shores of Loch Lomond to challenging hikes up Ben Lomond and some of the park's other Munros. The park authorities have also mapped out a range of themed walking and cycling itineraries—history walks, village trails, wildlife and nature walks, literary trails, and art and sculpture trails. If it's a more traditional trek you're after, some trails offer more of a challenge and well-earned views.

• Ben A'an : This 2.4-mile (4-kilometer) hike is one of the most popular in the park. It's a steep walk up a hill that offers views of Loch Katrine and Loch Achray.
• Ben Lomond Mountain Path : Ben Lomond is the most southern mountain of the Munros with a summit of more than 3,000 feet high. This 7.7-mile (12.4-kilometer) trail is difficult, but the trail is beautiful with passes through many lovely vistas.
• The Cobbler (Ben Arthur) : This mountain has three summits and also has many areas popular with rock climbers. It's about 7 miles (11 kilometers) long and considered difficult.
• Ben Ledi : This circular 6-mile (10-kilometer) route passes through the summit of Ben Ledi on the edge of the Scottish Highlands near Callander.
• Bracklinn Falls : This loop trail is a moderate 3-mile (5.3-kilometer) hike that starts north of Callander that offers views of Ben Ledi, Ben Vorlich, and a waterfall.

Boating & Fishing

There are many different ways to get on the water at Loch Lomond and Loch Katrine. For something unique, the Sir Walter Scott is a famous, vintage steamship on Loch Katrine, which made her maiden voyage in 1900. Recently she's been converted so that her boilers run on bio-fuel instead of coal, so you can have an eco-friendly experience on an antique ship. Several of the cruise suppliers listed on the National Park website also offer wildlife cruises into the sea lochs, the Firth of Clyde, and beyond. Dayboat hire is also available on many of the lochs. And there are inexpensive, scheduled hop-on, hop-off waterbuses and ferries that will drop you off at various piers and pontoons around Loch Lomond and Loch Katrine. If you bring your own motorboat, you'll need to register it and then read up on the bylaws and safety information at the registration website.

Kayaks, canoes, and SUPs are available from many of the piers. Wakeboarding, waterskiing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding are easy to arrange on many of the lochs. Open water swimming is allowed in many of the lochs but before you jump in, make sure you check with local authorities and suppliers to make sure it's a safe area because most of the lochs are multi-use. You may also need a wetsuit because the water is very cold.

Sailboat hire is available on Loch Lomond and there are restricted speed areas for powerboats guaranteeing peaceful sailing. You'll find plenty of launch spots if you bring your own sailboat on Loch Lomond, Loch Long, Loch Goil, and the Holy Loch. Fly fishing, or angling as it's called in Britain, can be done in most of the lochs, but different rules apply from one loch to another and you usually need permission and fishing licenses so do check before you cast your line. Permits are available from newsagents and fishing tackle suppliers.

The park has a good variety of tourist services, boat rentals, shopping, accommodations, and restaurants. Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park is made up of four distinct zones, creating opportunities for a wide variety of activities. Each of the key areas offers different attractions and outdoor activities. The park is sparsely populated, with about 20 people per square mile and most settlements are small, lochside villages or hamlets at the base of mountains. The two biggest towns are Balloch at the southern end of Loch Lomond and Callander in the southeastern corner of the Trossachs.

• Loch Lomond : The largest lake is surrounded by cycle and walking trails that range from gentle family-friendly walks to more rugged "high road" paths. Several conservation villages border the loch and are worth exploring. It is one of the UK's most popular holiday destinations.
• Cowal : This area used to be called Argyll Forest because so much of this western side of the park is covered with the Argyll Forest Park. It is defined by the dark forests and deep glens. Separated from the rest of the park by the sea lochs, Loch Long and Loch Goil, its rugged and dramatic northeast section is an area of small but challenging crags and peaks known as the Arrochar Alps.
• The Trossachs : This is the central area of the park and is known for having many lochs and long, deep glens. Two forest parks, Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and the Great Trossachs Forest are designated National Scenic Areas. Here, Scotland's Highland Boundary Fault divides highlands from lowlands leading some to call the region "the Highlands in miniature."
• Breadalbane : In the northeast corner of the park, this is an ancient Celtic earldom studded with high peaks, including Ben Lui, Stob Binnein, Ben More, and the higher of two mountains both called Ben Vorlich—the other is near Loch Lomond. This is Rob Roy country and where the famous outlaw is buried in Balquihidder. It's also an area of dramatic waterfalls.

As the park straddles the highlands and the lowlands of Scotland, is dotted with bodies of water and laced with rivers and streams that contribute to making it such a popular playground. There are many lochs, but some are more popular and developed than others.

• Loch Lomond : The biggest and most famous of the lochs is also the most popular with vacationers because you can rent motorboats, canoes, and kayaks or take ferries to different points along the shores. Fishing and angling are available in different areas from the shore and on the water and open water swimming is gaining popularity (only for the hardiest as it is very cold). The west shore of the lake is skirted by the A82 and provides the most accessible way to see views of Ben Lomond. A narrow road lines the east shore Balmaha in the southeast to the mid-point at Rowardenan, where trails for Ben Lomond climbers begin. Above that, cycle and walking trails are part of the West Highland Way , one of Britain's famous, long-distance walking paths.
• Loch Katrine : This loch inspired Sir Walter Scott's poem, The Lady of the Lake. It's eight miles long and there are regular cruises by steamship or cruiser. Visitors can also cross by ferry to a cycle path that runs along its north shore on a quiet, private road. Bikes can be hired at the Trossachs Pier on the loch. Walks around the loch are relatively flat but there's some good hill walking on family-friendly Ben A'an and slightly more challenging walks on Ben Venue.
• Loch Chon : Tiny Loch Chon is just a little over a mile and a half long and about a third of a mile at its widest point. It's popular with anglers, with perch and pike year-round, and brown trout from March to October. The loch is near some very good cycle trails and has good locations for what the British call wild camping— off-piste tent camping without services.
• Loch Long : This 20-mile long loch is often compared to a fjord. It extends from the Firth of Clyde north along the western side of the national park and is one of Scotland's major sea lochs. It's popular with wildlife watchers being rich in both freshwater and sea life. At the northern end, Benmore Botanic Garden is a mountainside garden with more than 300 varieties of rhododendrons and an avenue of 150 giant redwoods.

TripSavvy / Linda Strauta

There are over 30 campgrounds located all around the park, some of which are exclusive for tents and campervans, and others that can accommodate both. Wild camping is also allowed with the proper permits. The majority of campgrounds in the park are privately-owned and bookings need to be made directly.

• Loch Chon : Visitors interested in a slightly more civilized version of wild camping can try these campsites that have filtered water, flushing toilets, and parking space—yet widely spaced tent sites with a real lost-in-the-woods feeling. Accessible pitches are available which are closer to the parking lot and facilities.
• Cashel Campsite : On the eastern side of Loch Lomond, you can launch boats directly from this waterside campground. It is pet-friendly and has accessible shops, toilets, showers, a designated fishing spot, and even laundry facilities.
• Cobleland Campsite : Inside Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, this campsite sits on the banks of the River Forth, surrounded by oak trees, and in a great location to further explore the Trossachs. Accessible bathrooms, showers, and laundry facilities are on site.
• Loch Katrine Eco Camping : Campervans are welcome at this eco-lodge where visitors will have access to electrical hookups, bathrooms, and Wi-Fi. On-site there is a cafe, plus a place to rent bikes and organize a boat cruise.
• Inchcailloch Campsite : The only campsite on this nature reserve island is accessible first by ferry and then by trail. Facilities are more basic than most other campsites with no water supply and only public composting toilets. On this island, you'll find the ruins of abandoned human occupation and perhaps the convent founded on the island by Saint Kentigern, an Irish hermit said to be buried on Inchcailloch.

This national park may be a nature destination, but the numerous towns and villages also have many luxurious hotels with stunning views and historical significance—plus truly charming bed and breakfasts. There are also glamping hotels and cozy cabins if you want an experience that's more like camping, but a little more comfortable.

• An Còrr Arrochar Bed and Breakfast: Originally built in 1842, and recently renovated, this charming bed and breakfast is in the village of Arroch. Each room has a king-sized bed and Wi-Fi, plus a lounge area with great views across Loch Long.
• Cardross House : About 2 miles south of the Lake of Menteith, this home was originally built in 1598 and the estate offers both self-catered cottages and bed and breakfast rooms in the main house, which is full of historic portraits and features meals served in a formal Georgian-style dining room.
• Loch Tay Highland Lodge : Alternative camping options abound at this lodge area that offers traditional cabins, glamping domes, and wigwams set on the banks of Loch Tay.
• Lodge on Loch Lomond : This luxury hotel sits on the beach and has its own jetty on the lake, plus banquet halls and a restaurant. Rooms with loch views are available.

The park is best accessed from Glasgow, about 40 minutes from Balloch on the bottom of Loch Lomond, on the A82. By train, ScotRail services run two trains an hour from Glasgow to Balloch (approximately 50 minutes), and the ScotRail West Highland Route from Glasgow to Fort William has several stops near or inside the park at Helensburgh, Garelochhead, Arrochar & Tarbet, Ardlui, Crianlarich, and Tyndrum. Check the National Rail Enquiries website for schedules and prices.

A short on-demand ferry also takes passengers to the Inchcailloch Island Nature Reserv e, year-round, from Balmaha on the southeast shore of Loch Lomond. The island can also be reached by waterbus services from Luss and Balloch. This is a peaceful woodland island in Loch Lomond where there are very few people to get between you and the natural world.

Throughout the park, on the many lakes, and in the many towns and visitors centers, you'll find efforts have been made to make things more accessible. From businesses offering wheelchair-accessible fishing boats to attractions like the Sir Walter Scott Steamship ensuring that the historic ship can be accessed by wheelchair, visitors with disabilities should be able to find much they can do in the park. Around many of the lochs, such as Loch Katrine, the terrain is flat and paths and piers are flat and paved. Campgrounds and hotels also offer accessible accommodation throughout the park. Educational materials in the National Park Visitor Center in Balmaha are available in braille and British Sign Language. To find out which paths can be accessed by wheelchair, you can sort the walks listed on the park's official website by "short to moderate walking routes," which will show you a variety of paths with different levels of accessibility.

• Loch Lomond & the Trossachs is a year-round destination but the winter months are better suited for more weather-hardened outdoor adventure-lovers. In the summer there are many insects, which makes spring and early fall the best times to visit.
• Loch Lomond hosts golf tournaments, music festivals, and other seasonal events and has the most developed shopping, dining, and accommodations in the park.
• Unlike U.S. national parks, British national parks often include towns and villages, farms, and places where people live their day-to-day lives in a protected landscape.
• Public toilets are available throughout the park.

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Loch Lomond

Head to the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. You’ll be surrounded by charming villages, rolling countryside, hills and wonderful activities. Getting out on the water or near is a great way to have fun but it's important to stay safe too – be prepared by following these  safety tips .

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Things to do in Loch Lomond

Make the most of your time in Loch Lomond with these fun things to do.

Looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike? Immersing yourself in Loch Lomond's natural beauty is good for the mind, body and soul.

Loch Lomond's islands

Did you know Loch Lomond is home to 22 islands and 27 islets? Find more interesting facts about the many islands of Loch Lomond.

Keep your eyes peeled and see an amazing array of wildlife in Loch Lomond.

Take a boat trip and admire Loch Lomond's beautiful scenery.

Water activities

Paddle, swim or sail around Loch Lomond.

Explore on two wheels and discover Loch Lomond’s fantastic range of cycle routes.

Inspiration for Loch Lomond breaks

Lomond Luxury Lodges

© Love Loch Lomond

Places to stay

Loch Lomond's accommodation offers a wide range of facilities to make your stay as comfortable as it gets.

Tom Weir statue at Balmaha Bay

Tours, Routes and Trails

Check out our ideas for day trips and tours in and around Loch Lomond.

Unique Experiences

Volunteering in Loch Lomond

Get valuable experience, build your skills and have fun by volunteering in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.

An Ceann Mòr: Inveruglas

Take in the spectacular views of the Arrochar Alps in the west across Loch Lomond to Ben Lomond.

Map of Loch Lomond

Explore loch lomond.

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How to travel to and around Loch Lomond

Getting around.

Loch Lomond is served by regular rail services from Glasgow Queen Street to both Balloch and Helensburgh Lower with a journey time of less than an hour. Many of these services also run through to North Lanarkshire and West Lothian.

The famous West Highland Line runs through the area on its way from Glasgow Queen Street to Oban, Fort William and Mallaig. This scenic railway journey stops at Dumbarton, Helensburgh Upper, Garelochhead, Arrochar/Tarbet and Ardlui on its way north, providing good access to the western and northern parts of the Loch Lomond area.

Check out travel to Loch Lomond by rail

Driving to Loch Lomond from the central belt is easy, especially from Glasgow via the A82 or the M8 and Erskine Bridge. If you want to visit the eastern side of the Loch Lomond area, follow signs for Drymen, leaving Glasgow via Milngavie. Via the A82, take signs for Dumbarton, then Balloch. For the western sea-lochs, travel via Helensburgh (A814 from Dumbarton).

Check out journey times to Loch Lomond with Google Maps

Glasgow Airport is located just under 30 minutes from Loch Lomond, offering UK and international links. Loch Lomond is home to the UK’s only commercial seaplane service, Loch Lomond Seaplanes which connects Glasgow with Loch Lomond.

Edinburgh Airport also offer many flight connections and takes just over an hour to get to Balloch by road.

Find more information on Scottish airports

The Clyde and Loch Lomond Cycleway (NCN7) takes you from Glasgow to Loch Lomond along former railway lines and canal towpaths. You’ll immerse yourself in the great outdoors through forests and past castles before you reach Loch Lomond.

The West Lomond Cycle Path starts next to Balloch Railway Station at the south of Loch Lomond and runs north along the loch for 27 km to Tarbert. You can even catch a train back to Glasgow and the central belt of Scotland. The path is level and traffic-free for most of the route with only two short sections on minor roads.

Find more local cycle trails and paths in Loch Lomond

Take advantage of the Waterbus service departing from piers and pontoons around the loch.

Bus and coach

Take the bus from Glasgow Buchanan Street Bus Station to the south side of the loch with a journey time of approximately 45 minutes. Or head to Ardlui at the northern tip which takes around 1 hour 20 minutes.

Plan your journey with Traveline Scotland

What's On in Loch Lomond

Friends browsing the food stalls at Loch Lomond Shores Farmers Market

Find out what’s on in Loch Lomond with local events and festivals including theatre, food & drink and family-friendly events.

Places to Eat in Loch Lomond

The Lodge on Loch Lomond Hotel

Food & Drink

Choose from a great selection of places to eat out in Loch Lomond.

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

Explore Further

Loch Lomond is a great base to explore the surrounding areas and cities, including Stirling and Perth. 

A tip from your local expert

Balloch Castle Country Park

Visit the 200 acre grounds of Balloch Castle Country Park, which offer breathtaking views of Loch Lomond. Explore the Secret Garden and Fairy Glen and wander around the fantastic Woodland and Parkland areas. 

Assistant iCentre Manager, Balloch

Other things you might like

Loch Lomond, Trossachs, Stirling & Forth Valley

Scotland's Landscapes, Scenery & Nature Spots

The Best 9 Lochs Near Edinburgh and Glasgow

Scottish Wildlife - Animals & Attractions in Scotland

Love Loch Lomond - Things to do

7 Day Scotland Road Trip Route & Itinerary (2023)

Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 😀

Looking for a 7-day Scotland road trip route and itinerary? I’ve got you covered! Our Scotland road trip was one of the best trips we’ve ever taken – so much so we are currently planning out next!

Finding a simple route to travel around Scotland is tough. If you’re someone who needs it mapped out for you, this blog post has it all.

Whatever happens on your Scotland road trip, I dare you not to fall in love with this country. With its culture, tradition, history, and beauty, it has everything a travel lover could ever need!

In the following post, I’ve highlighted the best things to do on a Scotland road trip, as well as the perfect stops to make your trip extra special. From the mountains of the Cairngorm National Park , to the famous NC500 , the mystery of Loch Ness and chasing fairies on the Isle of Skye, this Scotland road trip itinerary has it all.

Travelling around Scotland? You might also like…

• 13 BEST Things to do in Aviemore (+ Travel Guide!)
• Where to Find Highland Cows in Scotland: Highland Cattle
• Fairy Pools Skye Walk: Everything You Need to Know
• Old Man of Storr Walk Guide: Isle of Skye, Scotland

Want to see epic photos and videos from these experiences?

Follow me on Instagram! As we travel, I post everything live on Instagram, so check out my recent highlights and posts. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, drop me a DM!

7-Day Scotland Road Trip : A Summary

A good thing to know about driving in Scotland is there are very few roads the more north you travel.  There aren’t many routes you can take, and if you’ve got the plan of seeing the highlands or the NC500, it’s impossible to get lost.

This makes it easy to get around, and we found so many unplanned viewpoints, detours, and surprises en route.

🍖 Good news – you can have a BBQ anywhere in Scotland, as long as it isn’t a forest area or exceptionally dry. Your best bet is a beach or roadside.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 The visitor centres in Scotland are brilliant – they’re full of information about the area, with 3D sculptures of the mountains and forests, cute cafes and most importantly, clean toilets! A welcome relief when living the van life, trust me!

🦟 The midges and mosquitoes are in abundance during the summer months in Scotland, especially in the highlands. Be prepared!

Related post: Want to take your pet on your 7-day Scotland road trip? Check out this complete guide to taking your pet on holiday here!

7-day Scotland Road Trip: Route

⏰ Duration:  7 days

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Locations in Scotland: Glasgow > Loch Lomond > Glencoe > Traigh Beach > Isle of Skye > Applecross > Inverness > Aviemore > Glasgow

🗺️ NOTE: This is roughly 500 miles and 11 hours of driving time (part of the map below is a ferry to the Isle of Skye).

Here is the 7-day Scotland road trip route, map and itinerary, with a clear breakdown of the best one-week Scotland road trip for first-timers:

• Day 1  – Glasgow + Loch Lomond
• Day 2  – Glencoe + Traigh Beach
• Day 3  – Isle of Skye
• Day 4  – Isle of Skye + Applecross
• Day 5  – Inverness + Loch Ness
• Day 6  – Cairngorms (Aviemore)
• Day 7  – Cairngorms > Glasgow or Edinburgh

7-day Scotland road trip map:

This entire trip will take you up past Loch Lomond, along the Harry Potter trail, and through scenic mountain ranges. Not forgetting the West Coast beaches and to the magical myths of the Isle of Skye.

You’ll then drive along part of the iconic NC500 (the UK’s version of Route 66) , down to Applecross coastal town, across to Inverness and Loch Ness and finally, into Cairngorms National Park. It’s a lot, but it’s worth it!

However, if this is too much driving for you, cut out one or two of the locations. Do as you wish with the route, but if you follow it exactly, it will take you around 7 days.

This route is to be completed by car/van . We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world!

Scotland Road Trip: Itinerary

Day 1: glasgow & loch lomond.

If you’re starting your Scotland road trip in Glasgow, but sure to set aside some time to explore. Glasgow is known as the ‘world’s friendliest city’, so be sure to check it out!

As you leave Glasgow, you’ll head north on the A82 for around an hour to reach Loch Lomond. I’d recommend spending as long as you can at Loch Lomond. 

As the loch is the largest in Scotland,  there is so much to see, walks to go on, hikes to be experienced, numerous viewpoints, and of course, lots of water activities (although the water is freezing, so be prepared!)

That evening, if you have a van or a tent, you can find a spot to camp around Loch Lomond, or follow in our footsteps and continue driving to knock off a few more miles. Continue north on the A82, past the loch, and head to the Bridge of Orchy for some amazing wild camping spots.

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Bridge of Orchy

🛌 Or book a night at: Queen of the Loch

Day 2: Glencoe & Traigh Beach

Glencoe and glenfinnan viaduct.

After sleeping at the Bridge of Orchy or in a hotel at Loch Lomond, begin your day by driving further along the A82 towards Glencoe.

Glencoe is one of the most well-known mountainous areas in Scotland. Its landscape has been used in films such as Harry Potter and James Bond.

Depending on what type of Scotland road trip you’re looking for, you could spend days in Glencoe. If you’re short on time, I recommend doing a short walk such as the Invercoe Loop, and the Glencoe visitors centre.

If you’re a Harry Potter fan,  your next stop is going to be the Glenfinnan Viaduct. This famous Jacobite steam train is the iconic Hogwarts Express train and track.

Unfortunately, the famous Jacobite steam train only runs a couple of times a day, but it’s still cool to see the viaduct alone!

🦉 TOP TIP:   Ignore the main Glenfinnan car park  and head around 100m further uphill. Here you will reach a church, with a small 5/6 car park outside. It’s completely free to park here, and as most people have rushed into the first one, usually pretty empty.

Continue along the A82 for quite some time, but be sure to pull over at the northern tip of Loch Eilt,  where Dumbledore’s final resting place is. You will see it situated right in the middle of the loch.

Traigh Beach

That evening, depending on how tired you are of driving, you could find a wild camping spot around Loch Eilt or head to one of my favourite places – Traigh beach. Traigh is such a hidden gem in Scotland, and not many routes include it.

It’s a stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, surrounded by green fields. It’s the perfect spot to wild camp and have a BBQ!

As Traigh Beach is situated directly on the west coast, the sun setting over the ocean is just incredible. Honestly, you wouldn’t believe it’s Scotland!

⛺️ Wild camp at: Traigh Beach

🛌 Or book a night at: The Arisaig Pods (Shepherd’s Huts)

Day 3: Isle of Skye

After you’ve enjoyed a morning on the beach,  head to Mallaig to catch the ferry to the Isle of Skye . If you don’t want to visit the Isle of Skye, skip Day 4 and go straight onto Day 5.

Pre-book your £15 ferry to the Isle of Skye a few days previous to wanting to visit. If it’s fully booked, there is a bridge you can drive over to reach the island.

There are so many things to do on the Isle of Skye. Swim in the fairy pools and hike the Old Man of Storr , or visit the small town of Portree and eat fish and chips. Walk around the famous Fairy Glen, or spot highland cows all over the island!

I recommend staying at least 1 night on the Isle of Skye to explore it properly.

⛺️ Wild camp on: the Isle of Skye

🛌 Or book a night at: Rasaay House Hotel

Related posts: The magic of the fairy pools on the Isle of Skye | Hiking the Old Man of Storr Guide

Day 4: Isle of Skye & Applecross

A big day of driving today, including the legendary drive along Bealach na Ba into Applecross. After a busy day of exploring Skye, today you’ll head further north of Scotland and join the iconic NC500!

Begin your drive on the A890 heading towards Applecross,  a small coastal town known for its locally-caught fish and traditional pubs.

During your journey to Applecross, you will drive on one of the highest and best-known roads in Scotland. Bealach na Ba isn’t for unsteady drivers!  It’s full of twists, turns and winding corners.

It’s a single track with a few passing places en route for oncoming cars. As you reach the top of the road, there’s a small layby to stop off and admire the view, 2054ft above sea level.

Applecross is then the next town. As you would have spent a few hours driving, it’s a great place to stop for a seafood lunch. Later in the afternoon, or the following morning, you’ll be back behind the wheel to drive through the Torridon Mountains.

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Torridon Mountains (anywhere along the route)

🛌 Or book a night at: Hartford House Hotel

Day 6: Inverness & Aviemore

Another incredible location en route for all nature and mountain lovers is the historic nature reserve of Beinn Eighe.  It’s a cluster of mountains, wildlife, and ancient pinewoods, it’s no wonder that it was chosen as Britain’s first nature reserve spot!

Spend your morning doing the mountain trail loop, or a simple woodland walk, before jumping back in the van to your next destination on your 7-day Scotland road trip.

Have lunch either in your van, in the trees of Bein Eigh or in a nearby pub, before you make the sad move of heading off the NC500.

You can stop in Inverness en route to the Cairngorms. We went straight to the legendary Loch Ness to find the iconic monster that lives here (but had no luck, unfortunately).

Sadly the Ness is too cold to swim in, and if you jump in, the only thing you’ll be catching is hypothermia! Only a quick visit is needed before you can jump back in the van to your final (in my opinion, best) location.

Aviemore (The Cairngorms National Park)

Around 50 minutes down the A9,  you’ll reach the small town of  Aviemore , known as the heart of the Cairngorm National Park .

The Cairngorms is the largest national park in the UK, and is twice the size of the  Lake District ! It’s by far one of the prettiest places on your Scotland road trip.

Aviemore is a small town in the Cairngorms, known for its ancient woodlands, large lochs and ski resorts. Set up with a Tesco, Starbucks, tons of mountain and ski shops to top up on supplies, and other outdoor-type stores, it just has a real ‘adventure’ vibe to it.

I recommend staying in the  Rothiemurchus campsite  on your first night in the Cairngorms to recharge your electricity.

We parked up in the middle of the forest, hooked up our electricity, and just soaked up every little bit of the forest atmosphere. It’s beautiful.

The camp has small wood cabins for their toilets which are cleaned regularly, with individual showers and toilet cubicles for complete privacy.

At only £30 a night for a van, you get everything you need from a campsite, plus the experience of staying in the middle of an ancient forest, away from the real world. I highly recommend adding it to your Scotland 7 day itinerary!

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Rothiemurchus campsite

🛌 Or book a night at: Macdonald Highlands Hotel

Related posts: The best things to do in Aviemore, the Cairngorms

Day 7: The Cairngorms

Whether you head deeper into the park, or hike up the surrounding mountains, a day in the Cairngorms is for every nature lover.

If you stayed at the campsite, you would have been given a small map to show you the different areas of the park.

This will outline various hikes and walks and their difficulties, and show you some of the best areas to visit during your time there.

I’d recommend a morning at Loch Eilen, then an afternoon/evening at Loch Morlich. Loch Eilen is around a 5-minute drive from Aviemore town centre and is in the forest area further in the park. You’ll pay a small fee on arrival which counts as parking and entrance.

Loch Eilen has a historical castle situated on a little island right in the middle, and if you’re a competent swimmer, it’s a great place to swim out to and explore!

Spend your morning here, then head onto Loch Morlich in the afternoon. This loch has a large stretch of ‘beach’ and sand to sit on, with a few cafes and watersport shops if you’re feeling adventurous.

You can also take some hiking and walking routes around the loch.

Loch Morlich was one of the highlights of our trip, and I highly recommend visiting whilst you’re in the Cairngorms!

If you have time, a little further north of Loch Morlich is the only  reindeer reserve   in the whole of the UK. Just remember to book a ticket in advance !

Driving in Scotland Tips

• Drivers from non-EU countries  need a valid International Driving permit.  and you must have at least  3rd-party insurance on your vehicle.
• Scotland drives on the  left-hand side. 
• The speed limit on single-track roads is 60mph, and on dual carriageways, it’s 70mph.
• If you’re not familiar with driving in the UK,  be sure to check out some general road rules before you set off.
• Stay safe whilst following GPS by using a  phone holder  for your car. The phone holder will ensure you can follow directions hands-free.
• Your signal may dip in and out in the Scottish countryside, especially in the Highlands.  I recommend getting an  eSIM  (if you’re from overseas) to get mobile data across the country.
• Most drivers in the UK are sensible and follow the rules.  Seatbelts are mandatory  and you will be stopped and fined for not using one. Traffic lights are followed religiously.
• Lost or need directions? Scotland is home to some of the most friendly, genuine people in the world, so don’t be afraid to stop and ask for directions . We did this and it was a great way to meet some of the locals.
• Remember that Scotland is a rural country, and you can go from being in a busy town centre to a remote area in minutes. Make sure you have plenty of petrol and food with you before embarking on your journey!
• Petrol is more expensive the more remote you go (plus major city centres). If you see a petrol station in a cheaper area, be sure to top up then rather than leaving it until you’re half empty – especially if you have a van with a large fuel tank.

➡  Need to hire a car in Scotland?   We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world! 🚗  LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

Things to do on your Scotland Road Trip

Things to do in glasgow.

Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and Glasgow is its largest city. There’s plenty to see and do in Glasgow, from exploring its history and architecture to enjoying its food and nightlife. Scotland is also a great place for a road trip, with plenty of scenic routes to take in all of its natural beauty.

Here are some of the things you can do in Glasgow:

• Visit Glasgow Cathedral: This Gothic cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Dating back to the 12th century, it’s well worth a visit for its historical significance and cool architecture.
• Take a walk along the River Clyde: The River Clyde runs through the heart of Glasgow, and there are many scenic walking routes along its banks. stop and enjoy the views, or go for a swim if it’s summertime!
• Explore Glasgow’s museums and art galleries: With over 20 museums and 40 art galleries, Glasgow has one of the best collections of cultural attractions in Scotland.
• Go on a shopping spree: Glasgow is home to some of Scotland’s best shopping!

🛌 Where to stay in Glasgow: Maldron Hotel Glasgow City (City Centre)

Where to eat in Glasgow

Glasgow is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or a casual bite, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Glasgow! For a truly Scottish experience, be sure to try haggis, Glasgow’s national dish.

Other Glasgow specialities include Cullen skink (a hearty soup made with smoked haddock), seafood chowder, and tattie scones (potato flatbreads). For dessert, why not try Glasgow’s famous deep-fried Mars bars?

Since this road trip, we have returned to Glasgow and found these were our favourite restaurants:

• Ranjit’s Kitchen (Indian)
• Two Fat Ladies in the City
• The Red Onion
• Ox and Finch

Things to do in Glencoe

Hopefully, Glencoe doesn’t get skipped on your road trip, as it is simply stunning. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, and here are just a few of the things you can do in Glencoe:

• Explore the ruins of Castle Ewen, a 16th-century stronghold that was destroyed in a clan battle.
• Hike to the top of Buchaille Etive Mor, one of the most popular trails in Scotland. The views from the summit are simply incredible.
• Visit Glencoe Folk Museum to learn about the area’s rich history and culture.
• Take a scenic drive along the Road to the Isles, which winds its way through some of the most beautiful parts of Scotland!

Things to do on the Isle of Skye

This small island off the west coast of Scotland is home to some of the most stunning scenery you’ll ever see . From towering sea cliffs and rugged coastline to misty valleys and rolling hills, there’s something for everyone on Skye.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at Scotland’s notorious ‘ single tracks ’ – narrow roads with sheer drops that are not for the faint-hearted!

There are also plenty of walks and hikes to enjoy on Skye. Quiraing is a popular choice, a 2-hour hike that takes you through an otherworldly landscape of jagged peaks and atmospheric mist. For something shorter, take a stroll around Loch Coruisk. It’s a must-do when you visit Scotland!

Where to eat on the Isle of Skye

Skye is famous for its food. The Isle of Skye has some of the best seafood in Scotland and is also home to many restaurants that serve traditional Scottish food. When visiting, be sure to check out:

• The Three Chimneys is one of the most popular Isle of Skye restaurants. It is located in the village of Dunvegan on the Isle of Skye, and serves traditional Scottish food. The menu includes dishes such as haggis, neeps, and tatties (yes, you have to try haggis!), plus lots of seafood.
• The Old Inn is a popular Isle of Skye restaurant . Located in the village of Carbost on the Isle of Skye, it again serves traditional Scottish food and is known for its whisky menu, sourcing it from all over Scotland.
• The Skeabost Country House Hotel is located in the village of Portree on the Isle Of Skye, and is another popular place to eat.

Things to do in Inverness

Inverness is located in the heart of the Highlands, and it offers a wide variety of things to see and do. From visiting medieval castles to exploring world-famous whisky distilleries, there is something for everyone in Inverness!

🦕 Don’t forget it’s the home of the famous Loch Ness, so make sure you stop off to look for Nessie! Loch Ness is freezing but beautiful and is definitely worth a stop on your 7-day Scotland road trip.

Additional locations to visit on your Scotland Road Trip

If you have a few extra days to spare, make a stop in Edinburgh! This charming city is full of historical landmarks, great restaurants, and fun activities. Make sure in Edinburgh you visit Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Holyrood Palace. You can also take a stroll through one of the many green spaces or go shopping in trendy boutiques.

And no visit to Edinburgh would be complete without sampling some of the local whisky!

🦉 TOP TIP: The sunset from Edinburgh Castle is stunning!

🛌 Where to stay in Edinburgh: Market Street Hotel (Old Town)

Fort William

Although we drove through Fort William, we didn’t have a chance to spend any time here. Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, Fort William is a small town with lots to do.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are so many opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. William Wordsworth even penned a poem about the area’s beauty!

🛌 Where to stay in Fort William: Victoria House Bed and Breakfast

What to Pack for a Scotland Road Trip

Whether you’re planning to camp under the stars or stay in your van, here are a few things you’ll need to pack for your 7-day Scotland road trip.

• Layers! Scotland can have four seasons in one day, so it’s important to be prepared for anything. Pack a mix of light and heavy clothing, including rain gear and sturdy shoes.
• A lightweight  waterproof jacket
• Hiking boots  (that won’t slip) – these are my favourites for any kind of weather
• An  umbrella
• A  waterproof day bag
• A  waterproof phone case  (which can also be used for  wild swimming  when it’s sunnier)
• A  portable charger
• Lots of layers
• A GoPro  for waterproof camera footage
• A  waterproof backpack cover
• A chilly bottle  to keep your water at a drinkable temperature
• A  Dry Robe , as it helps to keep you warm when entering and leaving the water (even if it’s raining!)
• As well as using bug  spray , we have midge  repellent wristbands .

Check out my travel shop here!

Where to stay on your Scotland road trip

If you are not hiring a van or camping , you need to pre-book accommodation for your Scotland road trip in advance. Stays in the UK sell out fast, and prices will increase nearer to the time of your trip.

Here are some of my recommendations, or check the button at the end of the paragraph for more exciting Scotland stays.

Glasgow: Maldron Hotel Glasgow City

Loch Lomond: Queen of the Loch

Traigh Beach: The Arisaig Pods

Isle of Skye: Rasaay House Hotel

Applecross: Hartford House Hotel

Aviemore: Macdonald Highlands Hotel

Fort William: Victoria House Bed and Breakfast

Getting around Scotland

This 7-day Scotland road trip has been planned with a rental car in mind. Public transport in the highlands is non-existent, and I wouldn’t recommend relying on it for your Scotland itinerary (even if you have to do some public transport in the city centre or for a day trip).

The roads in Scotland are easy to follow and for most of the year, the roads are quiet.

Renting a car for a Scotland road trip

If you can, take a car to get around Scotland. If you only have a short amount of time, you don’t want to be spending hours waiting for public transport.  Don’t have a car? We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world.  Be sure to pre-book your car rental before arriving in the country to avoid disappointment!

➡  LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

Wild camping in Scotland

When it comes to wild camping, you can park your van anywhere in Scotland . This is apart from the obvious, like someone’s property, a layby, on a corner and so on; just use common sense.

There are a lot of hidden gems and remote areas around, but it just takes a while to find them!

Best time to take a Scotland Road Trip

Scotland is a 365-day-year-round holiday destination, and knowing when to visit depends on your personal preferences.

☀️ If you want sunshine and blue skies , visit during the summer months of June-August. These are generally Scotland’s hottest months, but there’s no guarantee. Temperatures in these months can still drop and of course, we will still have some rain (it is the UK!) It can also get crowded and busy during the summer peak time. Make sure you pre-book any accommodation.

❄️ If you’d like to experience Scotland for its moody weather and clouds, head there for the colder months, like November and January. You’re also likely to see snow at this time in Scotland.

🌸  Spring in Scotland usually begins in late March and is until May.  Temperatures are beginning to rise and there is less rain than in the winter months. Pink blossom trees are blooming and the fields are coated in daffodils. 

🍂  Autumn temperatures in Scotland fall between September-early November.  If you’re looking for those aesthetic autumnal colours, your best bet is to take a Scotland road trip during these months. 

🎶 Don’t forget to check out local events when planning your trip, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Highland Games.

Scotland Road Trip: FAQs

1) how many days do i need for a scotland road trip.

Whether you have a week, a fortnight, or even just a few days, you can tailor your entire Scottish road trip to suit your needs!

If you’re coming from further away, I would recommend at least 7 days for a Scotland road trip. But you can add or remove certain places to shorten or lengthen your trip.

2) Is 7 days in Scotland enough?

Seven days in Scotland is a great amount of time to get a real feel for the country. Of course, if you have longer, you can visit more places and explore new areas.

But if you only have seven days, this is a great amount of time to experience some of the things Scotland has to offer!

3) What is the best of Scotland in 1 week?

If you only have one week to visit Scotland, I recommend visiting at least one of the major cities (Glasgow or Edinburgh), heading to at least one or two of the lochs (Loch Lomond, Loch Morlich) and experiencing some of the Scottish Highlands.

Hiring a car and driving into the countryside is a great option for experiencing Scotland in just one week.

4) What is the prettiest part of Scotland to visit?

There are so many locations in Scotland that are beyond beautiful. When you first visit, there will be a number of moments when the scenery leaves you speechless.

The ‘prettiest’ part of Scotland will always be a personal choice, but some of the best views include: Loch Morlich (Cairngorms), Glencoe and the Isle of Skye.

5) What month is best for Scotland?

If you want warmer weather and long, dry days, head to Scotland in the summer months (June-August). For misty mountains and dramatic landscapes, visit Scotland in the winter (November-February).

6) What is the best time to go to Scotland to avoid midges?

Midges in Scotland are at their worst during the warmer months. If you want to avoid the midges, plan your Scotland road trip between the months of late September and May, when the weather is considerably cooler.

When we visited Scotland in August, we unknowingly pulled up to a loch at dusk for a bit of a walk.

As soon as I stepped out of the van, we were swamped by thousands, if not millions, of midges. I have never seen anything like it in my life! But, when we were away from the water, the midges were not as bad – we just had to use a lot of bug spray!

7) What is the cheapest time of year to visit Scotland?

The best times to visit Scotland on a budget will be during shoulder seasons (spring and autumn).

Straight after Christmas (January and Feburary time) are some of the cheapest and quietest months in Scotland – however, expect freezing cold temperatures, thick snow and a lot of rain!

8) What are the rainiest months in Scotland?

You can expect rain all year round in Scotland. However, the wettest months are from November to January.

9)  Do I need a car to visit  Scotland?

If you’re visiting Scotland and are short on time, I strongly recommend hiring a car.  If you’re looking to hire a car in Scotland, we rent our cars from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world!  ➡  You can check out the  prices for car hire  in the UK now!

8)  Do I need a SIM card to visit Scotland? 

If you’re not from the UK, it’s worth  downloading an eSIM  on your phone to ensure you can use it for directions and avoid roaming charges as soon as you arrive. 

ESIMs  are easy to download and ready to use within a few minutes of purchasing! Plus, there are  eSIMs  available for the entire continent of Europe, so there’s no longer a need to hunt down free Wifi! ➡  You can check out the prices and packages for  eSIMs here!

A 7-Day Scotland Road Trip: In a Nutshell

If you’re looking for an epic road trip adventure, I highly recommend a 7 day Scotland road trip.

The scenery is stunning and there’s so much to see and do. Just make sure you give yourself enough time – it would be a shame to rush through this beautiful country!

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Have you been on a road trip in Scotland? What was your favourite part? Let me know on Instagram – I’d love to hear from you!

Happy travelling!

Other Scotland posts:

• 13 BEST Things to do in Aviemore (Updated Guide!)

MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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Loch Lomond , Travel Guides , Trossachs

Planning a trip to the loch lomond and the trossachs national park.

Planning a trip to the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park? This post contains all the practical information you might need to prepare your journey and make the most of your time in the park!

This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. Find out more here . All opinions are my own.

The Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park is the oldest of two national parks in Scotland. Opened in 2002 and covering 720 square miles, it serves to protect the stunning mountains, lochs and glens of the southern highlands and provides an opportunity for people to enjoy Scotland’s natural heritage. 

The park is located just north of the Central Belt and within easy reach from many of Scotland’s cities (Glasgow, Edinburgh, Stirling, Perth and Dundee). As such, it is a popular getaway for day trips, weekend escapes or longer holidays.

There is a lot to do and see in the national park – make sure to check out this post with 40 ideas for things to do in the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park . Planning a trip to the park is not only about choosing where to go and what to do, though. It is also about knowing where to find key facilities and other practical information. That’s what this post is for!

This post is a handy practical guide for visiting the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park and contains:

• Transport information: Getting around the park, key roads and routes to know, using public transport, and taking waterbuses.
• Visitor information: What to expect from entrance fees, where to find visitor centres, and info about facilities.
• Travel information:  How much time to spend in the park, where to stay, where to eat & drink, and how to fit the national park into your Scotland itinerary.

Explore Scotland’s national parks and natural beauty with my ready-made Mountains & Lochs itinerary !

Table of Contents

Transport Info for the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

Where is the national park.

The Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park lies north of Glasgow and covers much of the south-western Highlands. It is split into four regions: Loch Lomond at the centre, the Trossachs east of Loch Lomond, Breadalbane in the north and north-west of the park, and Cowal in the west and south-west.

Each region offers very different landscapes, flora and fauna. It is well-worth exploring in all directions!

Here’s my handy map for the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park!

Getting around the National Park

You can get around the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park by car or by public transport. The former gives you more flexibility, especially if you spend a week or so in the park, but it is perfectly feasible to reach many locations suggested in this post by train or bus. 

Public Transport in the National Park

Travelling around the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park by public transport is the most sustainably form of transport (short of walking and cycling of course).

Most villages are serviced by buses , but trailheads can be a little off the beaten track. Trails around Luss, Balmaha, Arrochar and Callander are all within walking distance from local bus stops though.

From Glasgow, you can also get the train to Balloch or the West Highland Line which stops in Helensburgh, Arrochar, Ardlui, Crianlarich and Tyndrum.  

Using public transport, it is important to choose a place to stay that is well connected with other parts of the park. Good hubs , depending on the regions you want to focus on, might be Stirling, Balloch, Arrochar or Dunoon.

To plan your journey, use the free Journey Planner app . It allows you to plan your trip and compare journey times, ticket prices and – my favourite feature – the carbon emissions of your chosen mode of transport. Taking the train or bus might be slower than driving, but who doesn’t want to minimise their impact and travel more sustainably?

Try the Journey Planner app below:

Driving in the National Park

There are several major roads running through the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park – but don’t forget that “major road” in Scotland rarely means that a road has more than one lane in each direction.

In the west, the A82 (connecting Glasgow with Inverness) runs through the national park and leads all along the western shore of Loch Lomond. The A83 branches off around half-way up Loch Lomond (Tarbet/Arrochar) and leads towards the Cowal peninsula (A815 and other smaller roads).

In the Breadalbane region, the A84 (connecting Stirling with Lochearnhead) and the A85 (Perth to Oban) connect key locations in the national park, like Callander, Loch Earn, Glen Ogle, Crianlarich and Tyndrum.

There are also many smaller roads, especially through the hills and glens of the Trossachs and the Cowal peninsula.

You might also like: My 20 top Driving Tips for Scotland

Download my free Scotland Trip Planning Checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything important !

Taking the Waterbus

Another way to get around the national park without a car is by utilising the waterbuses that criss-cross Loch Lomond and Loch Katrine during the summer months.

On Loch Lomond , the boats connect places like Inveruglas, Inversnaid, Tarbet, Rowardennan, Luss, Balmaha, Balloch and the island Inchcailloch.

On Loch Katrine , there is one route connecting Stronachlacher (west) with the Trossachs Pier (east).

The waterbus is a great way to explore different parts of Loch Lomond, especially the more remote areas on the eastern shore. The ports are great starting points for gentle walks, challenging hikes and mountain biking routes. Find out more here .

Visitor Info for the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

Entrance fees.

There is no fee to enter the national park, however, many car parks charge a fee and there are many paid activities. 

Visitor Centres in the National Park

There are several visitor centres around the national park as well as VisitScotland information centres in the major villages. You can find the ones I recommend visiting on this map .

• The Balmaha Visitor Centre  is the main National Park Centre and features an exhibition about the park, its geology and the Highland Boundary Fault. There is also a shop, toilets, a picnic area, a play park and staff who can help you plan your day. The centre lies at the foot of Conic Hill and overlooks the islands of Loch Lomond, and is thus also a great starting point for many activities in the park.
• The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre near Aberfoyle has all the information about local walks in the forest park, views of stunning a waterfall, a cafe with panoramic views and a wildlife hide. Plus public toilets and a shop.
• The Glen Finglas Visitor Centre between Loch Achray and Loch Venachar provides information on woodland regeneration and the native woodland habitat.

You might also like: Fab day trip ideas for Scotland

Parking in the National Park

Car parks across the national park are operated and maintained by the different local councils. Many smaller car parks and road lay-bys are free of charge, while car parks at the bottom of trailheads usually incur a fee.

The easiest way to pay for parking is to have plenty of coins handy. However, there are also apps that allow you to pay without cash, such as RingGo.

Petrol stations

There are multiple petrol stations around the national park, for example in Balloch, Callander, Tyndrum and Arrochar.

Public toilet facilities

There are many toilets around the national park (often at car parks) as well as public toilet facilities in villages. Find a full list here . Some may charge a small fee, so have coins handy.

Things to do in the National Park

Loch Lomond & the Trossachs is of course, first and foremost, famous for its beautiful scenery. Enjoy taking it on on a walk or hike, hire bikes or kayaks to get off the beaten track, join a cruise or book a scenic flight high above the park.

The National Park is packed with things to do – here are 40 ideas to choose from including,

• Hiking trails
• Canoeing and other water activities
• Adventure activities like ziplines and treetop courses
• Picture-perfect viewpoints
• Bustling villages to visit
• Places to learn about nature and more!

You might also like: 11 Educational & Science-Based Tourism Experiences in Scotland

Travel Info for the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

How much time do you need.

Due to its location, the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park is perfect for day trips from the city. You could spend all day immersed in the mountains and lochs of the southern highlands and be back in Edinburgh or Glasgow for dinner. Many of the locations listed below make for fab day trips from Edinburgh or Glasgow.

However, it is really worth spending at least a week in the area, if you can. There is just so much to do and see and the four regions of the park are so different, it would be a shame to rush through!

Fitting Loch Lomond into your Scotland itinerary

My classic 8-day Scottish Highland itinerary leads through the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park. You can either stop for views or short walks on the way or add a day or two to your trip to take in more sites in the national park.

Visiting Loch Lomond also works well in combination with my west coast itinerary , because it lies on the way back from the coast.

Browse my Scotland itineraries or let me help you plan your trip !

Where to stay in the national park

There are countless villages and holiday parks in the national park which offer plenty of accommodation options in the park. Here are some of my top choices:

• The Lodge on Loch Lomond , Luss: A stunning 4-star hotel in the charming village of Luss on the banks of Loch Lomond. Most of their guest rooms offer panoramic views of the loch. There are also one- or two-bedroom suites available.
• The Inn on Loch Lomond , Inverbeg: A few miles up the loch, the Inn on Loch Lomond is a traditional hotel with spacious and modern rooms. Many have views of Loch Lomond and the loch is just a short walk away.
• Strathyre Forest Holidays , Loch Lubnaig: A number of breathtaking log cabins and lodges on the quiet western shore of Luch Lubnaig. The cabins offer stunning views of the loch and one even has a hot tub! I’ve not stayed here yet, but this treat is high up on my list.

You might also like: 23 awesome places to stay in Scotland

Budget-friendly Youth Hostels

There are several youth hostels in the national park. Many of them are located along the West Highland Way, which follows the eastern shore of Loch Lomond – for example, Crianlarich Youth Hostel , Rowardennan Lodge Youth Hostel or Inversnaid Bunkhouse .

Camping & Wild Camping

There are specific rules around camping and wild camping within the national park. There are managed campsites with facilities ranging from electric hookups to composting toilets, as well as Camping Management Zones without formal facilities, which are great if you are after a wild camping experience.

Camping Byelaws apply from 1 March to 30 September, which means that in order to wild camp in the designated areas you must get a permit . Outside this time period, you may camp within the Camping Management Zones without a permit. 

However, only 4% of the national park are covered by the Camping Management Zones – you can wild camp outside these areas without a permit year-round.

You might also like: A Complete Guide to Wild Camping in Scotland

Food & Drink in the national park

Food is a big part of any successful trip to Scotland and luckily, there are some great options around the national park. Below are some of my personal recommendations – all of these also have fantastic vegan options.

• Auchentullich Farm Shop: A well-stocked farm shop just off the A82 near Balloch. Arden, Alexandria G83 8RF
• The Lodge on Loch Lomond: The restaurant at this hotel in Luss overlooks the loch. Great food and stunning views! Luss, Alexandria G83 8PA
• The Village Inn: A historic pub and restaurant in Arrochar. Best to book a table ahead of time as it’s very popular. Shore Road, Arrochar G83 7AX
• The Drovers Inn: An iconic historic pub in Inverarnan. Inverarnan, Arrochar G83 7DX
• Country Mumkins at the Artisan Cafe: A charming tea room in an old church building near Tyndrum. Old Church Road, Tyndrum, Crianlarich FK20 8RX
• The Real Food Cafe: An award-winning fish & chip shop in Tyndrum. A must on any road trip to the Highlands. Tyndrum, Crianlarich FK20 8RY
• Deli Ecosse: A lovely surprise of a cafe within the charming Highland village Callander. 10 Ancaster Square, Callander FK17 8ED

Here are some more suggestions from Ksenia Zizina ( For All Things Creative ) and Erin Doogan ( Beauty Creep ), who gave away their favourite spots near Loch Lomond on my Instagram Live show #WildForScotland :

• The House of Darroch: A fancy team room in Gartocharn near Balloch. Gartocharn, Loch Lomond G83 8RX
• Ben View Garden Centre: This garden centre near Aberfoyle has a lovely tea room. Ward Toll, Aberfoyle G63 0QY
• The Boat House:  A high-quality restaurant on the banks of Loch Lomond near Balloch. Loch Lomond, Alexandria G83 8QZ
• SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium: There is a cafe at the tops of the aquarium with lovely views of Loch Lomond. No need to pay the entrance, fee, just ask to go up to the cafe. Balloch, Alexandria G83 8QL
• Three Villages Cafe: A traditional village cafe in Arrochar. The Pier, Arrochar G83 7AB

You might also like : A Practical Travel Guide for Vegans in Scotland

Ready to plan a trip to the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park?

Your next step is to choose things to do and where to go !

All photos by Kathi Kamleitner.

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Loch Lomond Day Trip: One Amazing Day in the Trossachs

Posted on Published: January 23, 2022  - Last updated: May 30, 2024

Categories Blog , Europe , Road Trips , Scotland , United Kingdom

Continuing on our two week road trip of Scotland, we ventured west towards Loch Lomond and the Trossachs after two days exploring Falkirk (for the Kelpies) and the city of Stirling . Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is perfect for nature lovers. It’s the perfect day trip from Glasgow, too.

We quickly discovered that one day was not enough to explore the region. However, if you’re embarking on a lengthy Scotland road trip and you only have a limited amount of time in the area, here’s our guide to the ideal Loch Lomond day trip.

This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Loch Lomond and the Trossachs?

Where is Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, and why would anyone want to travel there? Loch Lomond is the biggest lake in all of Britain, and certainly one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the country. The word, “Trossachs”, refers to this area that’s thought to be the Scottish Highlands in miniature form. It’s all of the sleepy villages, enchanting forests, and twinkling lochs west of Stirling and east of Loch Lomond.

For those spending a longer amount of time in Scotland, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is home to 21 Munros (Scottish mountains). You’ll have many opportunities to do some “ munro bagging ” by hiking all of them. The easiest Munros to hike on any Loch Lomond day trip are: Ben Lui, Ben Lomond, Beinn Narnain, Beinn Ime, and Ben Vorlich.

Getting Around the Trossachs

I highly suggest renting a car in Scotland, even if you aren’t used to driving on the left. You will have the freedom to explore at your own pace and go everywhere you want, whenever you want.

I recommend comparing car rental prices for the best rate. If you aren’t comfortable with driving, you can look into small group tours in Scotland to get around and explore.

Loch Lomond Day Trip Itinerary

Deciding to spend one day in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park? There are so many things to do in Loch Lomond that you’ll be hard pressed to fit it all into one day. We had an absolutely wonderful time in the region and I can’t wait to return to explore more of it.

Here’s exactly how to plan your day trip to Loch Lomond if you’re driving over from Glasgow , Edinburgh, Stirling, or any other nearby location in Scotland. We drove to Loch Lomond from Stirling and the small town of Callander was our home base. After spending the night in Callander, we continued west, hitting up more places in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs on our way to Oban and Glencoe.

Doune Castle

I realize that Doune Castle isn’t technically within Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. It’s a great pit stop on your way towards Callander and the national park. We started our day in Stirling and ventured towards Doune Castle before visiting Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Doune Castle was the home of Robert Stewart, the 1st Duke of Albany and Governor of Scotland.

You might recognize Doune Castle from several popular filming sites. It’s featured in Game of Thrones, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and Outlander (as Castle Leoch). Actor/director Terry Jones provides the commentary for the audio tour of Doune Castle, while interweaving stories from the film set of the Holy Grail.

We really enjoyed wandering around the ruins of Doune Castle. You can tour the impressive great hall, the kitchen tower, and the upper chambers of the castle. You’ll have to use your imagination to envision what the castle looked like back in the day.

Doune Castle is included in the Historic Scotland Explorer Pass , which provides you access to numerous historic sites. The most popular attractions include Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle, Urquhart Castle, Iona Abbey, and Fort George, among many others.

There are also several day trips that incorporate Doune Castle as part of the tour. You can take an Outlander Tour from Edinburgh that stops at Doune Castle, Blackness Castle, Linlithgow Palace and more. There’s also this fabulous West Highlands Tour of Lochs and Castles from Edinburgh, featuring stops in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.

Lunch in Callander

We dined at a really cute spot called Campbell’s Taste of the Trossachs in Callander. It shut down for a litle while, but has reopened as Susi’s Taste of the Trossachs . We enjoyed really tasty vegan burgers here, though I’m not sure that they are still available. They definitely still have the vegan sausage rolls and a vegetarian breakfast available.

There’s another establishment in Callander called Deli Ecosse that was on our list that I suggest you check out. They’ve got quite a few vegan meals in addition to typical omnivore selections. Deli Ecosse reportedly has vegan haggis, a vegan cheese toastie, a veg minestrone soup, vegan cakes, and plant-based milks for coffee.

Loch Venachar and Loch Katrine

From Callander, we drove on the A821 heading west towards Loch Katrine. On the way, we enjoyed marvelous views of Loch Venachar from the car. There are some places along the side of the road to pull over, so you can get out of the car to soak up the scenery.

After witnessing the beauty of Loch Venachar, we continued on until we reached Loch Katrine. By the time we arrived in the afternoon, the car park was empty and all was quiet. We walked around the harbor for a short while to admire the views. If you’d like to explore more of Loch Katrine, you can take a Loch Cruise on board the modern cruiser, Lady of the Lake or the steamboat, Sir Walter Scott. Both boats have heated indoor areas so you can stay comfortable, even in chilly weather.

Scenic Drive on Duke’s Pass

The owners of the accommodation where we stayed tipped us off to Duke’s Pass. We asked for some scenic areas nearby, and they told us that it’s one of the most beautiful drives in the region. They were right! From Loch Katrine, Justin and I drove down the winding road that is Duke’s Pass and were in awe of all of the sweeping views that awaited us.

There aren’t too many places to pull off to the side of the road here as it’s a relatively narrow pass. We managed to find one spot where I hopped out to snap a few pictures. Even still, this might be one where you slowly drive down the road and marvel at the scenery all around. Don’t stop your car on the road or put yourself into any dangerous situations.

Balloch Castle and Country Park

Next, it was time to visit Loch Lomond itself. The Balloch Castle and Country Park is a charming area of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, and perfect to add to your Loch Lomond day trip itinerary. It’s Loch Lomond’s only country park and it has an interesting feature: Balloch Castle.

The country park was established in the 19th century, but didn’t become officially recognized until 1980. The castle and the park were organized and built by John Buchanan of the Glasgow Ship Bank. Balloch Castle and Country Park has 200 acres of paths, forest, wetlands, and open green space.

I loved walking along the lake and exploring the gardens where many flowers were in bloom. There’s also a small Fairy Trail around the property that makes use of the tree stumps of trees that had to be cut down.

The castle itself was built in 1800, although it lies abandoned today. It was once purposed as the headquarters for the Countryside Ranger Service. Even though you can’t go inside the castle, it’s a lovely landmark to admire on the property.

Balloch Country Park is the only registered historic designed landscape in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. The layout of the park remains largely unchanged for over 200 years. For those looking to explore the park in some detail, check out this pamphlet with more information about the gardens and the grounds.

Dinner at Queen of the Loch Pub

We stayed in the town of Balloch for dinner and found an interesting dining experience at the Queen of the Loch . The pub welcomes larger groups, guests of its 27 room hotel, and any visitors to the area. Dogs are allowed in the restaurant and we saw several pups laying on the floor by their owners. It’s great if you’re traveling with your dog and want to dine out. There are also a couple of play areas, both indoors and outdoors, for the kiddos to run around before their meal.

It’s not a traditional restaurant where a server greets you at your table and takes your order. Instead, choose your meals and order up at the front bar. Then, a server will bring your meals out to you. We were drawn to dine at the restaurant because they had a few vegan dishes on the menu. The vegan options (and items that can be prepared vegan) are clearly marked.

You can choose from: cauliflower wings, beer battered onion rings, cauli wings salad, the Moving Mountains burger, a mushroom Bourguignon pie, an aubergine bake, and a whole bunch of side dishes. We weren’t starving, so we simply ordered some cauliflower wings and a small plate of nachos with guacamole.

We were most impressed by their vegan dessert selection. Choose from apple pie, vegan ice cream, raspberry jam donut pudding, and a praline chocolate tart. I couldn’t resist ordering the praline chocolate tart. We ordered it with a scoop of the vegan ice cream.

Shortly after, the staff members told us that they were actually all out of vegan ice cream. But, to make it up to us, they gave us a second chocolate tart! We thought that was so nice of them and fabulous customer service that went above and beyond.

Stay at Abbotsford Lodge

Abbotsford Lodge is one of the best places to stay in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Callander is an ideal home base for your travels when spending one day in Loch Lomond. It’s a charming small town with cozy cafes and nearby natural attractions like waterfalls and hiking trails. After a day of exploring the national park and other local gems, Abbotsford Lodge is one of the best hotels in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs to rest and relax.

The rooms are incredibly spacious and tastefully decorated. The tartan curtains and the woodsy wallpaper evoked the atmosphere and vibes of Scotland. Abbotsford Lodge is a quiet accommodation in a peaceful area of town where you’ll enjoy a restful night’s sleep. In the morning, the Scottish buffet breakfast was delicious. Plus, for my vegan friends out there, make a request for vegan haggis. The owner, Dina, whipped up a delicious plate of vegan haggis that I really loved!

You can book your stay at Abbotsford Lodge, read my full review of the property, and read more reviews by travelers who have spent the night. I highly recommend staying at this delightful lodge that has the personal touches of a B&B and the amenities of a comfortable hotel.

BOOK YOUR STAY | READ MORE REVIEWS

More Things to Do in Loch Lomond

After waking up at Abbotsford Lodge and enjoying a delicious Scottish breakfast, it was time to embark on a morning hike. There are lots of things to do near Loch Lomond, and many of them are right on your doorstep in Callander.

From Abbotsford Lodge, it’s possible to walk to Callander Crags and Bracklinn Falls. It was a beautiful day outside, so I decided to walk up to Bracklinn Falls (takes about 30 minutes from Abbotsford Lodge). You can also drive up to Bracklinn Falls as there is a car park at the path to the waterfall.

Bracklinn Falls in Callander

From the car park, it’s only a short walk to Bracklinn Falls and the Bracklinn Falls Bridge. Walk down the main path and through the woods. You’ll start to hear the sounds of rushing waters in the distance as you approach the waterfall. Before long, you’ll see a unique bridge over the river with views of the cascading water from the bridge itself.

The original iron bridge, built for a visit from Queen Victoria in the 1870s, was completely destroyed by a flood in 2004. In 2010, this striking wooden structure replaced the original bridge. If you decide to keep walking, the path does eventually loop back around to the car park (5.25km hike in total, taking about 1.5 hours). As I had already walked for a half hour, I turned around and headed back to the hotel.

Hike at Callander Crags

On my way to Bracklinn Falls, I noticed the entrance to another hike called Callander Crags . It’s a 4km hike through the forest, and some of the hike is uphill. Eventually, you’ll reach a lookout point for wonderful views of Callander from up above. The entire hike is another 1.5 – 2 hours in total.

Falls of Falloch

Before leaving Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, Justin and I stopped at one of the most beautiful natural places in the area, the Falls of Falloch. It’s one of those spaces that offers a big payoff for very little work. There is a small car park at the Falls of Falloch. Walk down a gently worn and well marked path a very short distance to the waterfall.

The River Falloch drops off the edge of a cliff, forming a 10 meter (30 foot) cascading waterfall. There’s a large pool at the base of the waterfall, although I’d think that it’s a little too cold for swimming!

There’s an interactive sculpture at the Falls of Falloch called Woven Sound. This art installation by John Kennedy is a lengthy tunnel of woven steel rods. Walk through the sculpture to view the Falls of Falloch from another angle. At the viewpoint, there’s an etching of a diary entry by Dorothy Wordsworth that pays tribute to the writers and artists who were inspired by the waterfall in the early 19th century.

Need Travel Insurance? You should never leave home without travel insurance! Check out the best rates to make sure you’re covered in case of an emergency or accident.

Take a Loch Lomond Tour

Don’t feel like driving yourself around? There are lots of amazing tours that you can take with local guides that will show you exactly what to do in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.

This tour of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park will take you on a walk through the countryside, a visit to waterfalls and glens, and your guide will point out native wildlife. It includes round trip transportation, snacks, and refreshments.

You can also book this day trip to Loch Lomond from Glasgow or this day trip to Loch Lomond from Edinburgh , depending on where you’re staying. They both include Stirling Castle as a point of interest, too.

Want to see more photos of Loch Lomond?

View all of our travel photography in one place! You can browse and buy any of our pictures, including prints, gifts and more.

Loch Lomond Itinerary Map

Here’s our entire Loch Lomond itinerary displayed visually on a map. It will show you exactly where we visited on our journey through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. This map shows you what to do in Loch Lomond in some detail.

More Scotland Travel Blog Posts

Looking for more itineraries and inspiration from around Scotland? Here are some more articles from our travel blog featuring Scotland:

• Fun Things to Do in Glasgow
• The Glasgow Mural Trail
• One Day in Glasgow Itinerary
• 25 Best Movies About Scotland You Need to Watch
• 20 Gifts for People Who Love Scotland
• How to Hike Ben Nevis, the Highest Peak in the UK

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

10 Scotland Road Trip Tips You Need to Know Before You Go

Scotland is a rugged and beautiful country that’s perfect for exploring on a road trip. The craggy coasts, placid lochs, and rolling hills make it a dream to discover. There are countless historic castles, iconic distilleries, and postcard-perfect islands at your fingertips.

I absolutely love Scotland. It’s stunningly beautiful and I can never get enough of the countless changing landscapes, Scotch distilleries, and warm, welcoming locals.

Having been to Scotland over a handful of times in the last decade, I think taking a road trip is the best way to explore the country. Home to just 5.5 million people, it’s a sparsely populated land, so much of your driving here will be out in the countryside. The country is just built for it.

But there are still a few things to keep in mind before you depart.

Here are 10 Scotland road-trip tips (plus my favorite routes) to help make your drive better, safer, and more fun (based on my experience at least):

Table of Contents

1. Get Travel Insurance

2. rent the right vehicle, 3. be ready to drive on the left, 4. understand roundabouts, 5. know the speed limits, 6. add in time for scenic stops, 7. download the right apps, 8. bring a paper map, 9. understand how to drive on single-track roads, 10. don’t rush, suggested routes, scotland road trip faq, get your in-depth budget guide to europe.

I never leave home without travel insurance . And I never rent a car without comprehensive insurance either.

I know, it’s an added expense. And chances are you won’t even need it.

But what happens if you do need it and it’s not there? You’ll be paying out of pocket for damage. And that could cost you thousands.

Scotland has lots of narrow, rugged, or single-track roads (more on those later) that can be tricky to navigate. Tire and windshield damage is common. Throw in the ever-changing weather, and you’ve got recipe for trouble.

That’s why I strongly encourage you to take out car insurance for your road trip. The peace of mind is worth it.

When it comes to renting a car, I recommend Discover Cars . When you book, it’s easy to add car insurance onto your purchase with the click of a button. The site makes it clear what is covered and how much it costs.

You essentially have two choices when it comes to renting a vehicle in Scotland — and choice will drastically impact your trip. Your options are a car or a campervan.

A car will be cheaper and use less gas, but you’ll have to find accommodation each night. A campervan/RV will be more money and require more fuel, but you can sleep inside the vehicle and thus save money on accommodation. (It’s not my jam but to each their own.)

Both options make for an amazing trip, so there is no wrong answer. Just keep in mind that manual transmissions are the default in Scotland, so if you want a vehicle with automatic transmission, you’ll need to specify that while booking.  

Traffic in Scotland flows on the left, just like the rest of the UK. This is the opposite of the US, Canada, and the majority of Europe (only Ireland, the UK, Malta, and Cyprus drive on the left in Europe).

If you rent a manual vehicle, you’ll be switching gears with your left hand instead of your right, which has a bit of a learning curve. (Personally, I prefer an automatic).

Old habits die hard, so if you’re used to driving on the right-hand side of the road, drive cautiously. Driving on the left can be especially challenging when you arrive at a roundabout (more on that below) or in a city. Take it slow at first, until you adjust.  

Roundabouts are a traffic circles that serve as intersections, instead of stop lights or stop signs. They force vehicles to slow down without stopping the flow of traffic. While they aren’t especially common in the US, they are incredibly popular in Europe (they reduce serious traffic accidents by upwards of 90%).

Roundabouts are very common in Scotland. And they flow in the opposite direction (clockwise) than do those in the US (counterclockwise). When approaching a roundabout, slow down drastically and yield to traffic in the roundabout until you have an opening to enter the traffic circle. All traffic flows the same direction in a roundabout.

If there are multiple lanes, you’ll need to be on an outer lane when exiting. The inner lane of the roundabout is for cars not exiting immediately.

When you’re ready to exit the roundabout, signal so cars behind you know you will be turning.

If you’re not comfortable when you arrive at a roundabout, just take it slow and signal your intentions. They are much easier to handle than you think!  

Posted speed limits in Scotland are written in miles. While this is helpful for Americans like me, travelers from countries that use kilometers will want to pay extra attention.

Common speed limits are:

• Built-up areas: 30 MPH
• Single roadways: 60 MPH
• Dual roadways: 70 MPH
• Highways: 70 MPH

These numbers are just guides, however. Always follow local signage to ensure safety. When in doubt, it’s always better to go slower rather than faster until you verify the speed. I’d write down some common conversions so you can have them handy if you get confused.  

I know a lot of travelers like to really plan out their routes and itineraries. When you only have a few days, it can be tempting to plan everything to a T (I used to do this a lot). However, there are lots of diversions to explore in Scotland, from quaint towns to scenic vistas to short hikes.

You’re going to want to pull over every few minutes for a vista, mountain, loch, or abandoned castle. The landscape is so beautiful that even the average sights are Insta-worthy. For that reason, build in buffer time in your itinerary so that, if you decide to stop or take a little diversion, you’ll have the time. I can’t recommend this enough. Sometimes, the best parts of a trip are the ones you stumble into. And you definitely don’t want to be rushing from sight to sight either, so plan to be diverted.  

I know, when you head out on a road trip, the point is to get away from your phone so you can enjoy the local culture and stunning views. However, there are lots of apps out there that can help you save money, stay safe, and save time. Everyone road-tripping around Scotland should have the following apps downloaded to their phone:

• Met Weather – This is the best weather app for the UK. Conditions can change drastically in Scotland, so plan accordingly.
• Google Maps – The best app for looking up directions. Make sure to download your maps so you have them for offline use.
• Park4Night – A helpful app for finding spots to park for your RV or campervan (including free ones).
• Flush – A helpful app for finding public restrooms.
• Petrol Prices – An app for finding and comparing nearby gas prices for when you need to refuel.

Whenever I go on a road trip, I always bring a paper map . I know, Google Maps is easy and free, and mobile data coverage in Scotland is generally reliable. But it’s better to be safe than sorry. You never know when your phone is going to break, if your signal will be lost (likely to happen if you’re driving through remote areas), or if there will be an emergency.

Give yourself peace of mind: bring a paper road map, and just leave it in the glove box. You likely won’t need it, but if you do, you’ll be glad you have it (they make nice souvenirs after a trip too).  

Once you get out of the cities, you may encounter single-track roads. These are essentially two-way roads that only have space for one vehicle. This means that if you encounter oncoming traffic, there is no room for you to pass one another.

Fortunately, these roads usually have passing areas built into them at regular intervals, allowing cars to pull over to make room. Take advantage of these when you see traffic coming, so that you can easily pass one another.

Additionally, take it slow around corners on single-track roads. Accidents can occur here because you can’t see oncoming traffic (with whom you’re sharing a lane). So, drive slowly, and always be prepared to stop.

Lastly, keep in mind that many single-track roads are a bit rugged. Blowing a tire can happen easily, especially if you’re pulling off to the side to make room for passing vehicles. For that reason, make sure you have a spare tire and that you also have insurance coverage for your tires, just to be safe.  

While Scotland isn’t huge, there are still a lot of things see and do here. It may be tempting to rush, so you can pack more into your itinerary, but I strongly encourage you to not do so. Quality, not quantity, is the name of the game. I’ve been on countless road trips around the world, and slower is always better. That means driving less and spending more time at each stop. Do that, and you’ll be able to soak in a lot more of Scotland’s unique culture.

Furthermore, chances are you’ll be driving on a lot of smaller, winding roads here, often surrounded by ambling farm animals to watch out for. That means, for safety reasons, you’ll need to slow down and really focus on the drive. Admire the sights, leave room for spontaneous detours, and forget about rushing from sight to sight. You won’t regret it!  

There are a few popular road trip routes in Scotland. They each offer different things to see and do, and each require different amounts of time to complete. To make the most of your time, pick the route that best suits your travel interests.

Here’s a quick look at a few of the best road trip routes in Scotland:

North Coast 500 – This is probably the most popular road trip route in the country. It loops around the northern tip of Scotland, usually starting and ending in Inverness. Popular stops include Bealach na Bà, Cape Wrath, Smoo Cave , John o’ Groats, and Dunrobin Castle.

You’ll want at least five days, though seven days would be preferable. Just keep in mind that it can get busy in the summer.

Edinburgh/Glasgow to Glen Coe – Glen Coe is a picturesque valley in the Highlands that’s both a National Scenic Area and National Nature Reserve. It’s a popular spot for photographers and hikers, and a must-visit location for anyone exploring the Highlands.

Glen Coe is just 2-2.5 hours from Glasgow and Edinburgh , making it an easy day trip (though I suggest stopping overnight, so you can really soak up the views). It’s also a part of several road trip routes, including the Argyll Coastal Route (listed next).

Argyll Coastal Route – This route along the west coast of Scotland stretches for 129 miles (208 kilometers), from Loch Lomond to Fort Williams. It’s a great alternative to the North Coast 500, as it’s less popular (and thus less crowded). Popular stops along this route include the Inveraray Jail, the cairns of Kilmartin Glen, Glen Coe, and Ben Nevis.

While you could easily drive the distance in a single day, plan to spend at least three days. That will give you time to see the highlights without rushing.

Highlands Tourist Route – Cutting across the eastern side of the country, from Aberdeen to Inverness, this route is a popular choice for history buffs, as there are numerous castle and museum stops, as well as the site of the last battle on British soil, the Battle of Culloden (1746).

The route is just 116 miles (187 kilometers), but at least three days are needed to take it all in.  

If you pick a shorter route or just want to do a weekend road trip to camp, three days will suffice.

What is the most scenic drive in Scotland? Some of the most scenic drives in Scotland include the Argyll Coastal Route, the entire North Coast 500, and the Highlands Tourist Route.

Is driving in Scotland difficult? While driving in the cities can be a pain, once you get out into the countryside, it is very easy. Just use caution on single-track roads and in roundabouts — and remember that you have to drive on the left!

Can you drive onto the Isle of Skye? Yep! It’s connected to the mainland via a bridge.

What is the best month for a Scotland road trip? Generally, April-October is the best time to visit. Personally, I like the autumn, as you’ll get to see the changing leaves. It won’t be as warm, but prices will be lower and everything will be less busy.

Scotland is a beautiful destination and perfect for road trips. With stunning scenery, historic sights, plentiful hiking opportunities, and possible Loch Ness monster sightings, I think renting a car to explore is the best way to experience the country. Whether you want to discover the rugged coast or weave about the Highlands, having a car or campervan will make it both possible and affordable. Just follow the tips above and you’ll be sure to have an amazing time!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Scotland: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Scotland? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Scotland for even more planning tips!

Hi, I’m Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad, as well as the founder of this website! And I’m here to help you save money on your next trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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The largest stretch of fresh water in Britain (23 miles long and up to five miles wide), Loch Lomond is the epitome of Scottish scenic splendour, thanks in large part to the ballad that fondly recalls its “bonnie, bonnie banks”. In reality, however, the peerless scenery of the loch can be tainted by the sheer numbers of tourists and day-trippers. All that considered, it came as no surprise that Loch Lomond was voted one of the most beautiful places in Scotland in our reader survey.

The islands of Loch Lomond

The west highland way.

Designated Scotland’s first national park in 2002, the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park covers a large stretch of scenic territory from the lochs of the Clyde Estuary to Loch Tay in Perthshire, with the centrepiece being Loch Lomond.

The most popular gateway into the park is the town of Balloch , nineteen miles from Glasgow city centre. Both Balloch and the western side of the loch around Luss are often packed with day-trippers and tour coaches.

The loch’s eastern side , abutting the Trossachs, is very different in tone, with wooden ferryboats puttering out to a scattering of tree-covered islands off the village of Balmaha. If you are planning to go to Loch Lomond, check out these great tours to Loch Lomond either from Glasgow or from Edinburgh .

Beautiful sunny view of Loch Lomond in the Trossachs National Park with the surrounding hills - shutterstock

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The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

6 days  / from 627 USD

Festive Feelings around Christmas in Scotland

Experience the magic of Christmas in the heart of the Scottish Highlands! Lovely Christmas Markets and winter festivals await visitors during the winter months, but this itinerary can also be turned into a summer festival hop!

11 days  / from 1096 USD

Scotland's Wildest Natural Scenery

Want to lose yourself in Scotland's wildest natural scenery? This itinerary is a breath of fresh air and perfect to explore the most enchanting landscapes of the Highlands. It will allow you to get to know the wildest landscapes of Scotland, its fast-paced history and its amazing traditions.

Many of Loch Lomond’s 37 islands are privately owned, and, rather quaintly, an old wooden mail-boat still delivers post to four of them. It’s possible to join the mail-boat cruise, which is run by MacFarlane & Son from the jetty at Balmaha. But even going on a regular 2h Loch Lomond cruise is a great way to discover the islands.

In summer the timetable allows a one-hour stop on Inchmurrin Island, the largest and most southerly of the islands inhabited by just ten permanent residents; if you’re looking for an island to explore, however, a better bet is Inchailloch, the closest to Balmaha. Owned by Scottish Natural Heritage, it has a two-mile, signposted nature trail. You can row here yourself using a boat hired from MacFarlane & Son, or use their on-demand ferry service.

Opened in 1980, the spectacular West Highland Way was Scotland’s first long-distance footpath, stretching some 95 miles from Milngavie (pronounced “mill-guy”) six miles north of central Glasgow, to Fort William , where it reaches the foot of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain.

Today, it is by far the most popular such footpath in Scotland, and while for many the range of scenery, relative ease of walking and nearby facilities make it a classic route, others find it a little too busy in high season.

The route runs along the eastern shores of Loch Lomond, over the Highland Boundary Fault Line, then round Crianlarich, crossing the open heather wilderness of Rannoch Moor.

It passes close to Glen Coe , notorious for the massacre of the MacDonald clan, before reaching Fort William. Apart from one stretch halfway along when the path is within earshot of the main road, this is wild, remote country, and you should be well prepared for sudden and extreme weather changes.

The beautiful landscape of Glen Coe - shutterstock

Though this is not the most strenuous of Britain’s long-distance walks, a moderate degree of fitness is required as there are some steep ascents. If you’re looking for an added challenge, you could work in a climb of Ben Lomond or Ben Nevis.

You might choose to walk individual sections of the Way (the eight-mile climb from Glen Coe up the Devil’s Staircase is particularly spectacular).

If you want to tackle walking the whole West Highland Way you need to set aside at least seven days. Avoid a Saturday start from Milngavie and you’ll be less likely to be walking with hordes of people, and there’ll be less pressure on accommodation. Most walkers tackle the route from south to north, and manage between ten and fourteen miles a day, staying at hotels, B&Bs and bunkhouses en route. Camping is permitted at recognized sites.

Although the path is clearly waymarked, you may want to check one of the many maps or guidebooks published: the official guide, published by Mercat Press, includes a foldout map as well as descriptions of the route, with detailed cultural, historical, archeological and wildlife information.

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6 of the best hikes around Loch Lomond

I f you're coming to Scotland this year, you're sure to be planning on exploring lovely Loch Lomond. This picturesque Scottish loch is the largest lake in Great Britain by surface area and straddles the Highland Boundary Fault line. Positioned just 14 miles from the country’s largest city, Glasgow, you can reach it easily by car, bike or public transport and it is one of the main gateways to the Highlands.

Surrounded by several Munros and flanked on one side by a stretch of the West Highland Way , there are heaps of adventures to be had on and around Loch Lomond, and though it gets a bit brisk for water sports by winter, if you’re bringing your hiking boots , you can enjoy this area year-round. 

We've put together some of the best hikes around Loch Lomond that will deliver you dazzling views of this stunning Scottish loch all with a wild dip afterwards to cool off if you're feeling brave enough! Small towns and villages around the loch also provide ample opportunity to turn any hike here into a pub walk or an overnight stay.

Remember: it can always rain in Scotland, even if the sun is shining and there isn't a drop in the forecast, so pack your best waterproof jacket and rain pants , and don't let the weather spoil your fun. If you're confused by any of the lingo in this article, make sure you read our guide to Scottish hiking terms before you go.

Distance: 3 - 7 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Beinn Dubh is a splendid hill that rises up from the western banks of Loch Lomond via a steep, grassy ascent that can be turned into a longer loop for more challenge. Park in the town of Luss and find the footpath bridge over the A82 (there's a bus stop below this bridge if you’re coming without a car). 

On the far side of the bridge, you'll see a house with a kissing gate that has a signpost for the hike. Go through the gate and immediately turn right to head up the hill. Soon break free of the trees then pass through another gate then keep following the muddy track all the way uphill, pausing frequently to turn and look out as the loch reveals itself behind you. The climb is boggy in parts but worth it for the spectacular views. 

After a couple of miles, you’ll arrive at a large rock cairn indicating the summit. Turn back here and retrace your steps to the village or keep going across the tops where the views of the Arrochar Alps will be spread out before you. Head northwest and then turn left to head west as you briefly dip down and then start to climb uphill again. 

You'll pass another couple of rock cairns then begin to descend steeply on the other side of the Coire from Beinn Dubh. After a very steep descent, cross over a gate and turn left on a small and pleasant country road, crossing over a lovely stone bridge. Walk down this road for a couple of miles and find yourself back at your starting point.

Ben Vane  

Distance: 7 miles

Difficulty: Challenging

Part of the Arrochar Alps, Ben Vane might only barely make Munro status, however don't underestimate this challenging hike. Park at the visitor centre at Inveraglus and cross the A82 towards the impressive power station here. Turn left and follow a path that parallels the main road for a few minutes.

Soon the path turns right and begins to head uphill, passing under the railway. Pass the electric power station and begin climbing uphill ignoring a road to the right and the first two paths to the left. Up ahead of you, you will see two mountains: Ben Vane on the left and Ben Vorlich on the right.

Soon you'll reach a third path heading off to the left. Follow this and keep your eyes peeled for a path going up to the right just after you cross over a burn. From here just follow the path all the way up the mountain, pausing to admire the Dam at Loch Sloy.

Be warned that the top section of this hike does involve quite a bit of challenging scrambling . You'll want to put the trekking poles away and use your hands for this one. The broad flat summit is quite a surprise after all that claiming and offers fabulous views in all directions.

Ben Vorlich

Distance: 8.5 miles

Confusingly, there are two mountains of this name in Scotland, but this one is a Munro that rises up from the western shores of Loch Lomond right next to Ben Vane and is also part of the Arrochar Alps. Ben Vorlich has a reputation among the locals for being difficult but I found it to have a really good path all the way up.

This hike starts from the same place as Ben Vane, so just follow the directions above but keep walking past the turn off to the left for Ben Vane and head uphill towards Loch Sloy until you see an obvious path to the right heading up toward Ben Vorlich. There is often a large herd of cows grazing around here so walk with care and read our article on how to avoid being trampled . 

From the turn off, it's a well-marked trail with no scrambling and brilliant views down  to Loch Sloy for almost the entire way. You'll reach a trig point which will make you think you're at the summit but in fact the true highest point is just a little further along at a rock cairn where you can sit down and shelter from the wind and enjoy some lunch with beautiful views of Ben Lui.

West Highland Way

Distance: As far as you like

Difficulty: Easy

The world famous West Highland Way, which stretches for 96 miles from just outside Glasgow all the way up to Fort William, goes right along the eastern banks of Loch Lomond and in my opinion this is one of the most beautiful stretches of the trail.

To join the West Highland Way from Loch Lomond, drive or take the bus to the Drovers Inn, an allegedly haunted hotel at Invernan. From here, begin walking north on the A82 and within minutes you'll come to Beinglas campsite. Turn right to cross the bridge, walk through the campsite and you can join the Way here and walk either north or south as far as you like.

If you decide to go south, you'll soon find yourself walking along the gorgeous banks of Loch Lomond, on a rocky, undulating path, passing lots of sandy beaches where you can get your water shoes on for a wild swim . The rolling nature of this hikes means those who expect a paved trail consider it difficult, but it's nothing compared to the other hikes on this list.

In the summer months you can take a ferry back across the Loch when you arrive at the hotel at Inversnaid, which is about seven miles down the Way. For a longer trek, you can keep walking all the way to Rowardennan or Balmaha (16 miles) where you can find lodging .

If you choose to walk north, you'll be heading up towards Crianlarich and the Tyndrum, which is also about seven miles away and makes for some lovely forest walking with places to camp, find lodging and feast.

Distance: 7.5 miles

Ben Lomond is no doubt the best known mountain on the banks of Loch Lomond and it's the most prominent peak in the immediate area. Despite its length and Munro status it's not a particularly challenging hike with a clear path all the way to the summit and no scrambling involved.

Park at the large car park in Rowardennan and walk directly through the information center, which has toilets if you need them, to get on the trail. Initially you'll be climbing through oak trees and forest which is rich with brambles in the late summer months, but soon you'll break out from the trees and start to enjoy great views of the Loch.

Climb up onto the shoulder of the Ben then switchback your way uphill towards the summit where for the final push you'll be walking along an impressive narrow ridge. It's not difficult walking but keep your wits about you as you traverse the cliff edge across to the trig point at the summit.

From the very top there are marvelous views of the loch as well as the other Munros on this list. You'll see why this is one of the more popular hikes in all Scotland when you arrive. 

Distance: 2.5 miles

Working your way around now to the southeast banks of Loch Lomond, Conic Hill makes for one of the most popular hill walks in the area, partially owing to how much bang you get for your buck. This prominent little hill sits right on the Highland Boundary Fault line and for a short and fairly easy hike delivers breathtaking views of the loch.

Park in the large car park at Balmaha and pick up the trail from the car park from the end farthest from the road. Immediately turn right and start to walk through the forest, then turn left at the next trail junction. You are actually following the West Highland Way here so you can use those trail markers to guide you if you'd like.

From here it's an obvious path that takes you uphill and as soon as you leave the trees the loch will come into view. Initially the path will be heading between two hills with your destination being to the right, though you might want to take a short detour to the left for a breather and a moment to admire the views. Brilliant scenes await you from the top looking out over the loch and the Arrochar Alps. After a break you can return the way you came or keep going on the West Highland Way towards the town of Drymen where you can catch a bus back to Balmaha.

• Hiking in Scotland: an insider's guide

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Hostel surrounded by stunning loch lomond scenery reopens after £900k makeover.

A popular youth hostel located in the stunning scenery of Loch Lomond will reopen on June 1 after undergoing a £900K refresh.

Rowardennan Lodge Youth Hostel , one of Hostelling Scotland 's flagship hostels, has undergone an extensive five-month refurbishment aimed at improving the hostelling experience for guests.

The group said the project has transformed the flow of the ground floor and developed core hostel facilities throughout while ensuring the character and panoramic lochside views that make this such a popular hostel are retained.

First opened in 1950, Rowardennan has long been a favourite with guests, and it now offers a wide range of comfortable accommodation from a range of private rooms to shared dormitories and RentaHostel (exclusive private hire), making it a great year-round destination for individuals, families, groups and walkers tackling the famous West Highland Way .

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Also one of 17 WoofHostels, it's welcoming to now only families and groups but also their four legged friends too.

Starting in early 2023, the work was carried out in two stages. Phase one saw upgrades to the washroom facilities on the upper level, while phase two which started in early January 2024 has seen the extensive remodelling of the ground floor.

The second stage introduced a large open-plan reception, new drying room and laundry facilities as well as upgraded catering and self-catering kitchens.

The private rooms and shared dorm accommodation have been re-decorated, with wifi coverage throughout the hostel boosted to meet the changing needs of their guests.

Hostelling Scotland chief executive, Margo Paterson, said: "Rowardennan Lodge Youth Hostel has long been a jewel in the Hostelling Scotland crown and a real favourite with hostellers.

"We pride ourselves in the provision of excellent customer service, listening to our guests, understanding their changing needs and developing our network to offer the best possible hostelling experience.

"This project reflects our ongoing commitment to making more of Scotland, more accessible to more people through the provision of affordable and welcoming accommodation in some of the finest locations Scotland has to offer.”

Rowardennan Lodge Youth Hostel will reopen on June 1, and is open for year-round bookings.

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Loch Lomond RoadTrip – An Unmissable Trip

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Situated just north-west of Glasgow is one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks, Loch Lomond . Along the banks of this loch you will find breath-taking views, incredible walks and a route directly into the vast wilderness of the West of Scotland. By hitching a bus from Glasgow city centre, you can be at the foot of this beautiful loch in an hour and a half, or if you are lucky enough to have a car, you can reach it in just an hour, high road or low!

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Come along on our road trip with us on our Loch Lomond video. Make sure you subscribe to our Youtube channel for more!

There are so many beautiful locations to stop off at on a Loch Lomond road trip. You will find yourself pulling over at the side of the road at any opportunity to get a photo of the picturesque views. It is one of those places that must be added to your Scotland itinerary . Below are the places we will go into more detail:

The Devils Pulpit

Loch lomond shores, inveruglus pyramid, falls of falloch, bridge of orchy.

The final stop of the day is perhaps the most impressive on the entire Heart 200 road trip, the Devils Pulpit. This 100ft gorge lies within Finnich Glen and is like nothing you will have seen yet on this trip. Once you are down within the gorge, you are transported to a different world, sheltered from the above weather and sounds, surrounded by thick, mossy walls of mud, the only noise being that of the blood-red river that flows through the pit.

This pit has been known to the locals for years, however, it was made famous more recently when it was used in an episode of the world-famous TV show, Outlander. Quite fittingly known as “The Liars Spring”, the water gets its red colour from the sandstone of the gorge, which makes it a very photogenic and worthwhile place to stop off.

First things first, if you plan to climb down what is called the Jacobs Ladder to get into the gorge you will want to make sure you are prepared, as this spot can be dangerous, slippy and very muddy. This means wearing sturdy, waterproof and excellent gripping shoes. It also helps to wear clothes that you do not mind getting dirty, as chances are you will slip into the red mud.

To find the Devils Pulpit, you will need to look out for more natural signs, as there is not much sign postage for the Devils Pulpit. You can park up in one of the two laybys at the side of the road for free, both of which are shown on the map below. Be aware that this road can be busy and cars can come around the corner at some speed, so take your time when walking around this area.

If you wish to view the waterfall, you will need to wade through parts of the water to get further upstream. We took our shoes and socks off to get through the water, however, it was freezing. If you have a pair of wellies then you would be best to wear them for this part. There are some parts of the water that are extremely deep, so please be careful if you choose to wade through the water.

After a half an hour drive southwest along the A85, you will enter into the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Here you will find that at certain times of the year there are camping restrictions in place to prevent damage to the land and over camping.

During the months of October to February , you will be able to wild camp as you would in other areas of Scotland. However, between March and September, there are bylaws to protect the land. These camping management laws affect only 4% of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. To camp in these areas, you must purchase a permit or stay on a campsite.

A permit will cost £3 per tent or motorhome per night. View all of the areas and purchase your permit here .

Make sure you know the rules of wild camping and what to pack for your wild camping trip .

Loch Lomond Shores is at the South of the National Park and is one of the most popular tourist spots due to its close proximity to Glasgow. There are restaurants and cafes here as well as a small shopping centre. Loch Lomond Watersports are also based here who provide a wide range of water sports equipment to hire, suitable for all ages and abilities. There are seasonal markets on along the Loch and childrens amusements to keep the little ones entertained too.

Due to the number of amenities at Loch Lomond Shores, this does mean it is popular among the tour buses and it can become very busy, especially in peak season. 

Follow the path round past the watersports to find a small rocky beach. This is often the quietest spot and we have spent many hours soaking up the stunning views up the loch and watching the ducks.

Other Activities at Loch Lomond Shores are a Sea Life Centre, Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre and Treezone, an aerial adventure course in amongst the trees suitable for both childrens and adults. 

Balloch is a small village on the south of Loch Lomond and is easily accessible from Glasgow or Edinburgh via train. There are some restaurants and small shops on the main street of the village, as well as many walks in the area. Balloch Castle country park has a tarmac path around the loch for 3.5km. This is an enjoyable walk that only takes around an hour. 

Luss is a small town sitting on the Western shore of Loch Lomond. This is an incredibly popular stopping point during the summer months, with tourists piling on and off of coaches all day long. Luss has a small beach, which is a lovely place to enjoy the views of the loch, as well as for a walk to stretch your legs.

You may also need to pay for parking at Luss, depending on the season you visit.

Inveruglus is an underrated spot in Loch Lomond and one that we have spent many days and nights at over the years. Halfway down the western banks of Loch Lomond, there is a rocky outcrop of land, upon which you will find the Inveruglus visitor centre and the Inveruglus Pyramid.

When you reach the hydro-station on the left and another pit stop on the right, you have reached the Inveruglus Visitor Centre. Here you can wander through the small forest until you reach the water’s edge for an unforgettable view down the loch. This is one of our favourite spots in the world, with hidden paths that lead out onto the perfect spot for a BBQ on a still night; nothing but the sound of lapping water and magical views as the sunsets.

This is one of our favourite spots on Loch Lomond due to the magnificent view it has over the loch. The view here is in fact so good that there has been a newly installed viewing platform, known as the An Ceann Mor, or the Inveruglus Pyramid. This 8-metre structure has stairs and easily accessible seating on its southern side, as well as a free set of binoculars at the top allowing for a better look at the islands over the loch.

If you are up for a bit of adventure during your visit to Luss, the nearby beach is the perfect place to try out stand-up paddle boarding during the warm, summer months (or even winter if you are brave). If you are looking to buy your own SUP board, we can recommend looking at what boards and equipment BlueFinSUP have to offer.

You will need to pay for parking here if you visit during peak season. The ticket machine will display whether or not you will need a ticket to park.

The Falls of Falloch lies a very short walk along a path from the car park and is an extremely impressive waterfall in this part of Scotland. There is a viewpoint out to the waterfall or you can view from the edge. If you are feeling brave, pack your swimsuits and get ready for some rock pool swimming. This is a very popular watering hole during the warm summer months in Scotland.

By carrying on to the North end of the Loch you will find small pubs, seemingly in the middle of nowhere, and cosy campsites as the West Highland Way joins the road. North of here lies Bridge of Orchy, Glen Etive’s Kings house hotel and the humbling Buachaille Etive Mor. It is down the adjacent glen that James Bond’s Skyfall was filmed and is the perfect place for some wild camping. The drive to Bridge of Orchy passes by the Kings House where the wild deer will come and stop in for the visitors to feed them. On a sunny day with blue skies, the drive along the road is almost life changing. Definitely one of the most beautiful parts of the world you will see.

We have been lucky enough to camp in this beautiful part of the world on a couple of occasions. Clear night skies and no one around gives a spectacular view of the stars and an eerily silent nights sleep. UNLESS you happen to go camping during rutting season…

In October 2015, Gemma and I decided to go camping for a weekend to Bridge of Orchy before the winter frosts came in. We were setting up the tents and could hear the very faint calls of stags in the distance. “Awesome” we thought, having heard about the wondrous shows of nature the rutting season brings, as stags fight for dominance.

That night our tone quickly changed! What started as a faint whisper of a call turned into a fog horn all through the night. I swear the deer were fighting within 10 meters of our tent, they may as well have stuck their heads in the tent they were so noisy! Sleepless night but amazing memories!

How to Prepare for a visit to Loch Lomond

Before you set off on your adventure around the Scottish Highlands there are certain things that you need to prepare to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. These include what insurance is the best insurance to get and what to pack for a trip to Scotland, all of which is discussed in more detail below.

What is the Best Travel Insurance for Scotland

Without a doubt the least enjoyable part of preparing for any adventure is purchasing travel insurance, however, it is something you do not want to be without. Accidents happen to everyone and unexpected medical bills will ruin your trip if you are not covered.

To ensure you have a stress-free trip with no worries about potential medical bills, make sure you cover yourself when you travel. We recommend using World Nomads travel insurance , a backpacker-friendly and cheap insurance company that provides good coverage and support.

Get a quote for your travel insurance right here and get covered.

What to Pack for a Trip to Scotland

When it comes to packing for a trip to Scotland there is one item of clothing that you are going to need all year round: a waterproof. It rains in Scotland on average 250 days a year, meaning that during your Loch Lomond road trip you will probably experience at least a drizzle of rain. Due to this, the number one item on any Scotland packing list is a good waterproof jacket .

As for the rest of the year, the temperature in Scotland and the central heartlands is reasonably mild for most of the year. During the winter months, you will most likely experience snow, however, temperatures usually sit around freezing, so it is not too cold. For your reference, the average temperatures in Scotland are listed below during each season.

Spring (March, April, May) – 5-10 degrees C

Summer (June, July, August) – 15 degrees C

Autumn (September, October, November) – 5-10 degrees C

Winter (December, January, February) – 0-5 degrees C

As you can see, the weather never really gets above the teens, with anything over 25 degrees C considered a heatwave. The best way to pack for your trip to the highlands is with layers that can be added and removed as you need them. You will definitely need a hat and gloves during the colder months and will most likely need sunscreen to protect you on the long days in the open.

For our full list of items that we pack no matter where we go in the world, check out our full packing guides over here.

Given the beautiful sights and scenery that you are no doubt going to see around Scotland, we highly recommend packing a good camera for your trip. If you want to read more about the cameras we use and why we love them, check out the link below.

You can read what else we keep in our camera bag over here.

Photography Equipment

Main Photography Camera – Sony A7 Mirrorless Camera

Main Lense – Sony F3.5-5.6 28mm-70mm

Camera Stand – Neewer Portable 177cm

Vlogging Camera – Sony HX90v

Action Camera – GoPro Hero 7 Black

Drone Camera – DJI Spark

Camera Bag – Yahan Camera Bag

So there you have it, your the best sights to see on your Loch Lomond road trip.  If you are visiting this incredible part of Scotland and have any other questions on what to expect, leave us a comment down below. We love to chat about this stuff! If you have already been, let us know how it was! What sight was your favourite? Do you have any other recommendations for us? Let us know in the comments below !

Also remember to share this with your friends and family that you are going to share this trip with. Sharing is caring and we want to ensure that everyone is fully prepared to and knows what to expect on the banks of Loch Lomond.

If you are planning a Scotland trip soon then check out our other Scotland content right here . Come and  find us on social media to see where we are currently exploring. Tag us in your photos from your trip to the Loch Lomond and we will share them with the rest of our community of explorers and backpackers.

• Loch Lomond Camping – All You Need to Know
• 9 Must Visit Places on Loch Lomond
• Our North Coast 500 Budget

This article may contain affiliate links that provide us with a small income. For more information read our Affiliate page.

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This post has 15 comments.

How wonderful! I’m jealous too! Have a safe and amazing trips you 2. Maybe someday I’ll be lucky enough to try couple traveling!

Thank you ?

I’m spoilt for scenery over here in Taiwan but I still pine for the highlands where I spent many a school holiday as a child. Scotland truly has a special beauty.

Wow I imagine it’s a very different beauty in Taiwan! Probably get better weather too haha ?

The weather is sometimes better. There’s a narrow window for comfortable hiking in the winter, and outside of that you need to head high or walk in over 30 degrees and high humidity. It’s great at the moment though.

This is SO on my travel bucket list. And thanks for following my road trip blog about my book “The Drive: Searching for Lost Memories on the Pan-American Highway.”

Thanks! I will definitely check that book out ?

Love this post! Scotland is one of my favorites (if not my absolute favourite) and Loch Lomond… *sigh, just beautiful!

Thank you ? it really is beautiful! (As long as the weather is not bad..) ?

Great travelogue, with lots of info as well as pix. Why is Loch Lomond so familiar to me? Is it especially immortalized in song or literature? I have a bit of Irish ancestry, so perhaps it’s something passed on to me? Looks like a great adventure.

Seek peace,

Thanks! ? it is an incredible place in the world! Need to visit one day!

Great overview. I’m so lucky to live close to this. Thanks for visiting The Glasgow Gallivanter.

Looks beautiful! Hope one day we get to travel to Scotland!

Thank you! I hope so too ?

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