Best Things to Do in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, Scotland: The Complete 2026 Guide

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If you are planning a trip to Scotland and wondering where to go beyond Edinburgh, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs should be near the top of your list. This national park sits just 30 minutes north of Glasgow, yet it feels a world away. Lochs, mountains, ancient woodlands, and pretty stone villages make it one of the most varied places in the country. Here is everything you need to know about the best things to do in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs.

What Is Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park?

Scotland’s first national park opened in 2002. It covers 720 square miles of the southern Highlands, taking in Loch Lomond to the west and the Trossachs — a compact but dramatic area of hills and lochs — to the east.

Loch Lomond is the UK’s largest freshwater loch by surface area, stretching 24 miles from north to south with 22 islands across its waters. You can see it from the A82 road along the western shore, explore it on foot, paddle it by kayak, or take in the view from the deck of a cruise boat.

The Trossachs earned the nickname “the Highlands in miniature” in the 19th century. Writers came here to find rugged scenery at a fraction of the distance of the far north. Today it draws hikers, cyclists, and anyone who wants a proper taste of the Scottish Highlands without a long drive.

Best Things to Do at Loch Lomond: The Bonnie Banks

The song “The Bonnie Banks o’ Loch Lomond” has made the loch famous around the world. The western shore — from Balloch in the south to Tarbet in the north — is where most visitors spend their time.

Balloch

Balloch sits at the southern end of the loch and serves as the main gateway from Glasgow. You can catch a boat cruise from here, hire a canoe or paddleboard, or simply walk along the shore. Balloch Castle Country Park is free to enter and offers pleasant lochside walks through woodland. The Loch Lomond Shores retail and leisure complex is also based here if you need supplies or a coffee stop.

Luss

A few miles north of Balloch, the village of Luss is one of the prettiest in Scotland. Stone cottages line quiet streets leading down to a pebble beach with views across the loch to Ben Lomond. It gets busy in summer, so arrive early or visit in the evening for fewer crowds. Luss also has a small café and craft shop if you want to stop for refreshments.

Tarbet and Ardlui

Continue north and the loch narrows as the landscape grows wilder. Tarbet is a small village with a pier and makes a useful base for exploring the northern reaches. Ardlui, at the very top of Loch Lomond, marks the start of the wilder Highland section and sits along the route of the West Highland Way.

Hiking in The Trossachs

The Trossachs is walker’s country. Three hills in particular draw visitors of all abilities, from short family outings to full Munro ascents.

Ben A’an

Ben A’an (461m / 1,512ft) is the most popular short hike in the Trossachs. The path starts from a car park on the A821 near Loch Achray and takes around two to three hours return. The summit is a rocky ridge with a dramatic view down to Loch Katrine and across the surrounding hills. It is a proper mountain summit without requiring a full day — ideal if this is your first Scottish hill walk.

Ben Lomond

Ben Lomond (974m / 3,196ft) is the most southerly Munro in Scotland. A Munro is any Scottish mountain over 3,000 feet. The main path starts from Rowardennan on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond and takes around four to five hours return. On a clear day, the summit view takes in the full length of Loch Lomond, the Highlands to the north, and the city of Glasgow to the south.

The Cobbler

The Cobbler (884m / 2,900ft) — properly named Ben Arthur — is one of Scotland’s most distinctive mountains. Its three rocky peaks are recognisable from miles away. The path starts from Arrochar at the head of Loch Long, and the route involves some mild scrambling near the top. Allow five to six hours for the full route. If you enjoy this walk, our guide to Glencoe covers another of Scotland’s great mountain landscapes.

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Loch Katrine and the Heart of the Trossachs

Loch Katrine sits at the centre of the Trossachs and has supplied Glasgow’s drinking water since 1859. You can explore it by taking a cruise on the SS Sir Walter Scott, a Victorian steamship that has sailed the loch since 1900. Alternatively, hire a bicycle and ride the traffic-free path that runs along the northern shore — the route takes around three hours and is suitable for most fitness levels.

The area around Loch Katrine is Rob Roy MacGregor country. Rob Roy (1671–1734) was an outlaw and folk hero. His grave is in Balquhidder, a short drive from the loch. Stronachlachar, at the western end of Loch Katrine, sits within his former territory.

Villages and Towns Worth Visiting

The national park contains some of Scotland’s most appealing small towns, each with its own character.

Aberfoyle

Aberfoyle calls itself the “Gateway to the Trossachs” and makes a good base for exploring the area. The town is surrounded by the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, which has waymarked walking and cycling trails through conifer forest. The David Marshall Lodge visitor centre has a café and useful information point overlooking the forest.

Callander

Callander sits on the eastern edge of the national park and is slightly larger than Aberfoyle. It has a good range of cafés, independent shops, and a helpful tourist information office. The short walk up to Bracklinn Falls (around 45 minutes return) is particularly impressive after heavy rain.

Historical Sites to Explore

Beyond its natural scenery, the area has a rich history with several notable sites worth visiting.

Inchmahome Priory

The Lake of Menteith is the only natural body of water in Scotland officially named a “lake” rather than a loch. On one of its islands stands Inchmahome Priory, a 13th-century Augustinian monastery. Mary Queen of Scots stayed here as a child. Historic Environment Scotland operates a ferry service from Port of Menteith to the island.

Dumbarton Castle

Dumbarton Castle stands on a volcanic rock at the confluence of the rivers Clyde and Leven, at the southern edge of the national park. Records of a fortress on this site go back to the 5th century, making it one of the oldest recorded fortifications in Scotland. The rock offers views across the Clyde estuary and on a clear day you can see Ben Lomond rising to the north.

Getting There from Glasgow and Edinburgh

From Glasgow: Balloch is 30 minutes from Glasgow Central by train. Buses serve towns along the western shore. By car, the M8 and A82 take around 45 minutes.

From Edinburgh: The drive via the M9 and A84 takes around 75 minutes to Callander or 90 minutes to Balloch. There is no direct train from Edinburgh to the national park — change at Glasgow Queen Street for Balloch trains.

Loch Lomond fits naturally into a wider Scotland road trip. Our complete 7-day Scotland itinerary includes a Loch Lomond day and gives you a full route from Edinburgh and back. If you plan to continue north, our Fort William guide covers the town at the foot of Ben Nevis, about an hour and a half north of Balloch.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Best time to visit: June to September brings the warmest weather. October delivers excellent autumn colour. Spring is quieter with good visibility for hill walking.
• Midges: Scotland’s tiny biting insects are worst in still, humid conditions from June to August. Carry insect repellent and wear long sleeves near the water’s edge in the evening.
• Parking: Popular walking car parks at Ben A’an, Rowardennan (for Ben Lomond), and Arrochar (for The Cobbler) fill early in summer — arrive before 9am to secure a space.
• Wild swimming: Swimming in the loch is popular at several spots, particularly around Luss and Inveruglas. The water is cold throughout the year.
• Where to stay: Balloch and Callander have the widest range of hotels and B&Bs. Luss and Aberfoyle offer smaller guesthouses for a quieter experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to drive around Loch Lomond?

A full loop of Loch Lomond takes around two to three hours without stops. The A82 runs along the western shore and gives the best road-level views. The eastern road ends at Rowardennan — you cannot complete a full loop without backtracking, as there is no through road on the eastern side. Most visitors drive the A82 western shore and return the same way.

Is Loch Lomond worth visiting in winter?

Yes — winter visits have real advantages. Crowds are minimal, accommodation is cheaper, and snow on the surrounding mountains creates dramatic scenery. The main road along the western shore and the village of Luss are accessible year-round. However, Ben Lomond and The Cobbler require ice axe and crampons in full winter conditions, so check conditions before heading up.

Do you need a car to visit Loch Lomond?

You can reach Balloch by train from Glasgow and explore the southern end of the loch without a car. However, the Trossachs — including Loch Katrine, Ben A’an, Aberfoyle, and Callander — are much harder to reach by public transport. A hire car or organised tour gives you far more flexibility across the national park.

How far is Loch Lomond from Edinburgh?

Loch Lomond is around 60 to 70 miles from Edinburgh depending on your destination within the park. By car, the drive takes 75 to 90 minutes. There is no direct train from Edinburgh to Loch Lomond — you change at Glasgow, which adds time to the journey.

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