What to do in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs: guide and itinerary

Less than an hour from Glasgow, the Loch Lomond It marks the entrance to the Highlands. Together with the neighboring Trossachs, it forms Scotland's first national park, nestled between lochs, mountains, forests, and charming villages. Here's what to do at Loch Lomond and in the Trossachs, and our recommended itinerary. Based in the UK since 2012, we include it in our tailor-made trips to Scotland.

In short: At Loch Lomond, don't miss the village of Luss, a cruise from Balloch or Tarbet, the Conic Hill hike, or the ascent of Ben Lomond (974 m). In the Trossachs, take a trip on the Sir Walter Scott steamship on Loch Katrine and visit Callander and Aberfoyle. Allow 1 to 2 days by car from Glasgow or Stirling.

Loch Lomond, gateway to the Highlands

Loch Lomond is the largest freshwater lake in Great Britain by surface area. Established in 2002, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park was the first in Scotland. Its shores are dotted with around thirty islands, and the famous West Highland Way hiking trail runs along its eastern shore.

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Things to do in Loch Lomond: the must-sees

The village of Luss

On the west bank, Luss is one of the prettiest villages in Scotland, with its flower-filled stone cottages, small church and beach on the edge of the loch.

A cruise on the loch

From Balloch in the south, or Tarbet further north, boats depart for a trip on the loch and between its islands. A lovely way to discover the landscapes effortlessly.

Hiking: Conic Hill and Ben Lomond

Near Balmaha, the short climb up Conic Hill offers one of the most beautiful views of the loch and its islands. For the more athletic, Ben Lomond, at 974 meters, is the southernmost Munro in Scotland: allow approximately 5 hours for the round trip.

The Trossachs, Little Scotland

Just to the east, the Trossachs are often called "the Highlands in miniature". They inspired Sir Walter Scott and are linked to the legend of Rob Roy.

• Loch Katrine and his century-old steamship, the Sir Walter Scott.
• Callander, a lively little town, gateway to the Trossachs.
• Aberfoyle and the scenic Duke's Pass road.
• Balquhidder, where Rob Roy MacGregor is buried.

Our 2-day itinerary to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs

• Day 1: Balloch, cruise on the loch, Luss, then Conic Hill at sunset.
• Day 2: Duke's Pass, Loch Katrine by boat, Callander and Balquhidder.

Next, continue on to Glencoe and the Highlands, or to Stirling. Read our guides to Glencoe, What to do in Stirling, What to do in Glasgow and Scotland’s most beautiful lochs. More information is available on the website of the national park.

Frequently Asked Questions about Loch Lomond

How to get to Loch Lomond from Glasgow?

Allow approximately 45 minutes by car to reach Balloch. The train also connects Glasgow to Balloch in under an hour.

How long does it take to visit Loch Lomond?

One day is enough for the loch. However, allow 2 days to also explore the Trossachs.

Is it safe to swim in Loch Lomond?

It's possible, but the water remains cold all year round and the loch is deep in places. Be careful and stick to supervised or shallow beaches.

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