Loch Lomond Tours

About Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park was Scotland's first national park, established in 2002. At 720 square miles, it encompasses 22 lochs, 21 Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet), 39 miles of coastline, and some of the most varied scenery in Scotland — from gentle lowland shores to dramatic Highland peaks, all within 30 minutes of Glasgow. Loch Lomond itself is Britain's largest freshwater loch by surface area, stretching 24 miles from the lowland town of Balloch in the south to the Highland village of Ardlui in the north. The character changes dramatically — the southern end is broad, island-dotted, and gentle; the northern end narrows between steep mountains and feels properly Highland. The Trossachs, often called the Highlands in Miniature, lie to the east. Loch Katrine sits at their heart, served by the SS Sir Walter Scott — a Victorian steamship that has cruised the loch since 1900. The loch has supplied Glasgow's drinking water since 1859. Ben A'an (461m) above Loch Katrine is the park's most popular short hike — a 2-3 hour return walk to a rocky summit with dramatic views. Ben Lomond (974m) is the most southerly Munro in Scotland, climbed from Rowardennan on the eastern shore. The West Highland Way, Scotland's most famous long-distance path, follows the loch's eastern shore northward. The bonnie village of Luss, with its slate-roofed cottages on the western shore, is the park's most photographed spot. Loch Lomond Shores at Balloch offers boat cruises, shopping, a Sea Life Aquarium, and family-friendly activities. The park draws four million visitors annually. May, September, and October offer the best balance of weather, fewer crowds, and — in autumn — outstanding colours.