C5 ⌂ West Dunbartonshire, Argyll & Bute, Trossachs 3 Balloch; Arrochar and Tarbet @ Callander; Balloch; Balmaha n Ancaster Sq, Callander: (01877) 330 342; National Park Visitor Centre, Balmaha: (01389) 722 100 ∑ lochlomond-trossachs.org
Combining the ruggedness of the Grampians with the pastoral tranquillity of the Borders, this beautiful region of craggy hills and sparkling lochs is the meeting place of the Lowlands and Highlands.
Experience Central and Northeast Scotland
t Inversnaid Hotel Harbour and Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond
Of Scotland’s many lochs, Loch Lomond is perhaps the most popular and best loved. Lying just 30 km (19 miles) northwest of Glasgow, its accessibility has helped its rise to prominence. Duncryne, a small hill some 5 km (3 miles) northeast of Balloch on the southern shore, gives an excellent view of the loch, while the western shore is the more developed, with villages such as Luss and Tarbet attracting many visitors.
Walkers pass by Loch Lomond’s shores on the West Highland Way, Scotland’s most popular long-distance footpath running from Glasgow to Fort William, and the 30-mile (50 km) Great Trossachs Path which runs between Callander and Inversnaid skirts its banks. Boat trips operate from Balloch Pier and can be rented from various points around the loch.
The Trossachs
In 2002, 1,865 sq km (720 sq miles) of the Trossachs area was designated Scotland’s first national park. Home to a variety of wildlife, including the golden eagle, peregrine falcon, red deer and the wildcat, the Trossachs have inspired many writers, including Sir Walter Scott. Loch Katrine, just north of Loch Lomond, was the setting of Sir Walter Scott’s Lady of the Lake (1810). The Victorian steamer Sir Walter Scott cruises from Trossachs Pier. Callander is the most popular town from which to explore the Trossachs, while Queen Elizabeth Forest Park between Loch Lomond and Aberfoyle offers spectacular woodland walks through this vast tract of Scottish countryside.
t View from Beinn Dubh
Did You Know?
At 45 sq km (27.5 sq miles), Loch Lomond is the largest stretch of fresh water in Britain by surface area.
great View
Ben Lomond
The 12-km (7.5-mile) hike to the summit of Ben Lomond, 990m (3,217 ft) above the lochside starting point at Rowardennan, calls for good boots and reasonable fitness. The path leads through oak and birch woods, then up to the summit for a breathtaking panoramic view.