At 190m deep, 22.5 miles long and with a shoreline of nearly 100 miles, Loch Lomond’s enormous mass sets the scene for some of the most magical adventures in Scotland. From sunset island cruises on the loch to world-class hiking opportunities to family-friendly attractions – there is something to pique the interest of all generations.
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Part of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Loch Lomond lies on the Highland Boundary Fault – a major fault zone that runs from Arran in the west to Stonehaven in the east. A haven for geologists, biologists and solivagants alike, the loch is hugged by sweeping Highlands to the north and Lowlands to the south. Offering a unique array of natural and manmade attractions all around its shores, you can easily spend day after day around the loch, discovering and rediscovering this legendary land.
To get you started, here are our favourite things to do around Loch Lomond, just a stone’s throw from its glistening shores:
Balloch Castle Country Park
A great dog-friendly attraction on the southeast shores of Loch Lomond, Balloch Castle Country Park features 200 acres of both wild and ornamental woodland, open parkland, manicured gardens, playparks, shoreline and more. Only a short distance from the centre of Balloch yet promising peace and tranquillity, just some of the park’s features include a Fairy Glen, Chinese Garden, Pleasure Grounds and a Secret Garden.
Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre
Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre is home to over thirty birds of prey and owls, including two regal Golden Eagles called Orla and Scout. Located within Scotland’s first National Park, it invites you to meet many of its resident birds and enjoy unique experiences, like its hawk walks and owl encounters. Learn about the behaviours, habits and threats of these amazing avian predators and bask in the beauty of the centre’s magnificent surroundings.
Duncryne Hill
Offering one of the best viewpoints in the area, a walk up Duncryne Hill is definitely one of the top things to do around Loch Lomond. Called “the Dumpling” by locals because of its shapely frame, the hill offers a manageable walk for many and its summit can be reached following a 15-minute (or so) walk. One of the easiest climbs in the region, the route features 90 meters of ascent over a mile and provides jaw-dropping panoramas over the loch and its many islands.
Ben Lomond
If you are looking for more of a challenge, Ben Lomond may well capture your attention. The most southerly Munro, the mountain proffers one of the most popular hill-walks in Scotland and attracts walkers from near and far. On fine days, the 7.5-mile hike reveals views over the loch and range upon range of mountains beyond. Please be advised, though, that only experienced hikers should attempt this climb in winter conditions.
Inversnaid Falls
Well worth a visit, Inversnaid Falls can be found in the sleepy hamlet of Inversnaid on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond. Accessed via a woodland path and across a small footbridge, the waterfall tumbles over the Arklet Burn before plunging into Loch Lomond and carrying on its journey. Beautiful whatever the weather, the falls are particularly impressive when in full spate; however, caution is advised and due care should always be taken.
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Loch Lomond Water Cruises
One of the best ways to spend a day at Loch Lomond is on the water. From special VIP boat trips to island hopping excursions to visits to the iconic Maid of the Loch (the last paddle steamer built in Britain), there are all sorts of ways to discover new perspectives of the lake. With a number of departure points around the loch, including Balloch, Luss, Tarbet and Inveruglas, you can hop aboard your vessel of choice and relish the views of the bonnie banks.
Loch Lomond – Sealife Aquarium
Get up close to some of Loch Lomond’s more unusual residents at the Sealife Aquarium in Balloch. With 1,500 residents, including sharks, rays, seahorses and more, you can look forward to a wealth of experiences. See the aquarium’s adorable family of otters, learn about some of the world’s 2,000 known species of starfish (did you know starfish have no brain, heart or blood?) and journey beneath the sea in the aquarium’s 250,000-litre Ocean Tunnel.
Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve
Tighten your laces and choose from a selection of tranquil wooded walks through ancient oak woodland and the wetlands of the River Endrick in Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve. A diverse mix of habitats essential for both resident and migratory species of birds, the reserve is a real haven for wildlife. By the lochshore in summer, you may well hear the call of ospreys hunting for fish, while in winter, the distinctive cries of visiting geese punctuate the silence.
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