Scotland is renowned for its stunning scenery and fascinating history. Loch Lomond is one of the country’s most beautiful areas, and it has plenty of activities to offer. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil day of exploration, or an exciting outdoor adventure, there’s something for everyone.
From kayaking on the loch to exploring the local history, here’s a list of 15 of the best things to do in Loch Lomond, Scotland.
Kayaking on Loch Lomond
You’ll love kayaking on Loch Lomond – the sun glistening off the pristine water will take your breath away!
Paddling around the lake, you can explore the grand beauty of the Trossachs National Park, marvel at the rolling hills, and take in the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
Cast your eyes upon the serene loch, and you’ll be entranced by the placid waters.
There are plenty of kayaking rentals available near the lake, so you can easily rent a kayak and get started.
You can also explore the loch’s islands, caves, and historic sites, all accessible by kayak.
The experience is sure to be a memorable one, with breathtaking scenery and plenty of adventure.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, Loch Lomond is the perfect place to explore the Scottish countryside and take in its natural beauty.
Exploring the Trossachs National Park
Exploring the Trossachs National Park offers a chance to reconnect with nature and find peace in its wild beauty. Located close to Loch Lomond, the Trossachs National Park is a stunning area of Scotland, known for its lush green hills, lochs, and woodlands. This is a great spot for those looking to find some respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The park is home to many different species of wildlife, with birds such as the golden eagle, merlin, and capercaillie to be found here. Visitors can also take a walk around the park and visit the lovely villages of Balquhidder and Brig o’ Turk.
For those looking for an adventure, the Trossachs National Park also has several excellent routes for mountain biking and hiking. There are also plenty of activities to be found in the park, from watersports to fishing, so you’re sure to find something to keep you entertained.
Hiking Ben Lomond
Climbing Ben Lomond provides an exhilarating experience, with stunning views of the Trossachs National Park and beyond. It’s the most popular and busiest mountain in the area, so you should get an early start if you want to avoid the crowds.
The ascent is a challenging but rewarding climb, with a steep incline that will take you over 900 meters above sea level. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, and on a clear day, you can even see the coast of Ireland.
The peak of Ben Lomond is the perfect spot to catch a break, take some photos, and admire the scenery. The descent is just as spectacular, with the option to take a more leisurely path to the bottom.
Whether you’re an experienced climber or a novice, you’ll find something to love about Ben Lomond.
Visiting the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre
Visiting the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre is an exciting way to experience the beauty of Scotland’s wildlife. Located in the stunning countryside of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, this centre offers a unique chance to get up close to some of the region’s magnificent birds of prey.
Home to more than 30 species, you can observe many of these vibrant birds in their natural habitat. The centre offers a range of educational talks and interactive experiences, as well as the opportunity to meet and learn about the birds first-hand.
The centre also provides a variety of falconry courses to help visitors gain a greater understanding of the birds and their behavior. With the guidance of the centre’s knowledgeable staff, you can even get the chance to take part in a hands-on demonstration.
From flight displays to animal encounters, there is plenty to see and do at the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, making it a must-visit destination for all wildlife enthusiasts.
Taking a Boat Tour
Sail away from shore and explore the beauty of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park on a boat tour, and you’ll get to see the area’s wildlife up close.
With its stunning landscapes, picturesque lochs, and dramatic islands, the National Park is a sight to behold.
The boat tours offer a leisurely and comfortable way to experience the park, with knowledgeable tour guides providing commentary about the area’s history and culture.
You’ll get to see iconic landmarks like Ben Lomond, the famous Rob Roy’s Cave, and the islands of Inchmurrin, Inchcailloch, and Inchfad.
During the tour, you’ll also get a chance to spot some of the park’s iconic wildlife, such as red deer, golden eagles, sea eagles, ospreys, and even otters.
A boat tour of Loch Lomond is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for years to come.
Exploring the Luss Village
After taking a boat tour around the Loch, I decided to explore the quaint village of Luss. Luss is situated on the western side of the loch, and it’s a wonderful place to spend the day.
It’s full of stunning scenery, lovely people, and great places to shop and eat. The village features a range of attractions, from the iconic Luss pier to the ancient Luss Church.
The pier is one of the most popular spots in Luss, and it’s a great place to snap some pictures of the loch. You can also take a boat tour from the pier and enjoy the beautiful views of the loch and the surrounding hills.
The Luss Church is also well worth a visit. It’s an ancient building with a rich history, and it’s home to a number of religious artifacts and relics.
There are also a number of shops and restaurants in the village, offering a range of delicious food and unique souvenirs.
No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Luss. It’s a great place to explore and it’s sure to leave you with some wonderful memories.
Visiting the Kilchurn Castle
Nestled on the edge of Loch Lomond, Kilchurn Castle is a must-see for any Scotland traveler. This historic castle dates back to the 15th century and was once inhabited by the Campbells, a powerful clan in the region.
Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, offering stunning views of the loch and the surrounding area. The castle itself is full of interesting features, including an old dungeon and the ruins of a chapel. Visitors can also explore the grounds, which feature a number of interesting archaeological sites including the remains of a fort and a 17th-century gun battery.
Exploring the castle is an exciting and educational experience, and one that no Scotland traveler should miss.
The castle is open to the public throughout the year and offers a number of guided tours. These tours provide a great opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of the area, as well as the stories behind the castle and its occupants.
The castle also hosts a range of activities throughout the year, including re-enactments of historic battles, and evenings of traditional music and dancing. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a great day out, a visit to Kilchurn Castle is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Partaking in Water Sports
If you’re looking to add some excitement to your Scotland vacation, why not partake in some of the incredible water sports available on Loch Lomond?
Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a novice, you can find something to enjoy. If you’re looking for a thrill, you can try your hand at kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.
For a more relaxed experience, you can take a boat tour around the loch and take in the stunning scenery.
The loch is also a great spot for fishing, allowing you to catch everything from trout to salmon.
You can also take a boat trip to the islands of Inchmurrin or Inchcailloch and explore the ancient ruins or go bird watching.
There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to water sports on Loch Lomond, so you’re sure to have a memorable experience.
Visiting the Inversnaid Waterfall
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Loch Lomond is the majestic Inversnaid Waterfall, a must-visit destination on any trip to Scotland. This breathtaking waterfall cascades down from the high hills of Argyll and Bute, creating a peaceful atmosphere as it winds down into the loch.
Standing at the foot of the waterfall, you can feel the mist of the cascading water on your face and hear the gentle roar of the water as it plunges into the loch.
Inversnaid Waterfall is a popular destination for hikers looking to explore the beauty of Scotland’s nature. The surrounding hills provide stunning views of the loch and the surrounding countryside.
You can also take a boat ride up to the waterfall, allowing you to admire its beauty from a distance. The waterfall is also a great place to take photographs, making it a great spot for any traveler looking to capture the beauty of Scotland.
Birdwatching
Leaving the majestic Inversnaid Waterfall, I ventured on to another of Loch Lomond’s wonders – birdwatching.
The area is a paradise for birdwatchers, with some of the UK’s most spectacular species of birds living in the area. The loch is home to a variety of birds, including swans, ducks, geese, and a variety of other species.
The area is also home to some of the UK’s most important breeding areas for rare birds. In spring, the loch’s reed beds are full of wading birds, including redshank, snipe, and lapwing. In winter, the loch is home to a variety of waterfowl, including pochard, wigeon, and tufted duck.
Birdwatchers can also find a number of raptors in the area, including peregrine falcon, sparrowhawk, and osprey. The area is also home to a variety of warblers, including sedge, reed, and grasshopper. Birdwatchers can also find a variety of seabirds, including puffins, gannets, and guillemots.
With so many birds to observe, Loch Lomond is an ideal spot for birdwatchers.
Horseback Riding
Exploring Loch Lomond by horseback is an unforgettable experience, offering stunning views of the loch and its surrounding hills. With a variety of trails available, horseback riding is an excellent way to take in the beauty of this area.
From gentle paths to more challenging terrain, riders of all skill levels can find something to enjoy. The trails are especially beautiful in the spring and summer when the hills are awash in wildflowers and blooming trees.
Riding along the loch’s shore allows for an up-close view of the glistening water and its lush vegetation. You may even spot some of Scotland’s native wildlife, such as red deer, roe deer, and birds of prey.
The trail guides are knowledgeable about the area and can point out interesting plants, animals, and historical sites. Horseback riding is a great way to get out and explore the Scottish countryside.
Whether you choose a leisurely paced ride or a more challenging adventure, you’re sure to leave with lasting memories of your time in Loch Lomond.
Fishing
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Loch Lomond, why not try fishing? Loch Lomond is a picturesque, relaxed spot, and the waters are teeming with trout, pike, and char.
If you’re new to the sport, you can take a guided tour to learn the basics, or if you’re a more experienced angler, you can rent a boat and explore the area. Fishing on Loch Lomond is a great way to get out into nature and enjoy the peacefulness of the area.
No matter your experience level, Loch Lomond is the perfect spot for some fishing. Many of the boats available to rent come with all the necessary gear, so all you need to bring is your fishing license and some snacks.
The best time of day to fish on the loch is in the evening when the light is low and the fish are more active. With a bit of luck, you’ll have a successful day and the opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal by the fire.
Exploring the Local History
Discover the fascinating history of Loch Lomond and surrounding area as you take a journey back in time. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the area, from its ancient geological formation to its historic castles and monuments.
Take a guided tour to learn about the area’s diverse cultural history, from the Celts to the Romans, and the Vikings to the Normans.
Explore the area’s ancient sites, such as the ruins of the medieval castle of Stirling and the ancient fort of Loch Lomond. Learn about the ancient stone circles, cairns, and standing stones that dot the landscape.
Along the way, marvel at the beautiful scenery and get a glimpse into the deep history of the area.
Be sure to visit the local museums and galleries to learn more about the history of the area and its people.
Whether you want to explore the area’s history, take in its stunning views, or just relax and enjoy the scenery, there’s something for everyone to experience in Loch Lomond!
Partaking in Outdoor Activities
From exploring the local history to partaking in outdoor activities, there is no shortage of things to do in Loch Lomond, Scotland. With its stunning scenery and abundance of wildlife, it’s a great place for outdoor activities.
Here are some of the best things to do while visiting Loch Lomond.
One of the best activities to do in the area is to take a hike. The area is home to many trails that offer spectacular views. The Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is particularly well known for its stunning trails and it’s a great way to explore the area.
Another great activity is fishing. The loch is teeming with brown trout, pike, perch, and salmon, making it a great spot for anglers.
Visitors can also take in the area’s breathtaking views and scenery while taking a boat trip around the loch. This is a great way to experience the area’s beauty.
There are also many golf courses in the area, so visitors can enjoy a round of golf with stunning views of the loch.
Enjoying the Local Cuisine
Embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure by sampling the delicious local cuisine of Loch Lomond, Scotland. From traditional Scottish fare to modern dishes, the area offers a variety of options for any palate.
Take a break from your outdoor pursuits to enjoy a hearty meal at one of the many pubs or restaurants. Options include classic dishes such as haggis, cullen skink, and steak pie, as well as contemporary alternatives like fish and chips. With a variety of flavors, textures, and ingredients, you’re sure to find something you love to enjoy.
In addition to the traditional restaurants, Loch Lomond also offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy local treats. Visit a farmers market to sample delicacies like Scottish cheeses and smoked salmon. Attend a food festival to experience the unique flavors of the area. Enjoy traditional Scottish whisky or craft beer, and don’t forget to top off your meal with a sweet treat like shortbread or tablet.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a light snack, Loch Lomond has something to offer everyone.
Conclusion
Visiting Loch Lomond is a great way to experience the beauty of Scotland.
From the boat tours to the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone.
You can explore the countryside on foot or by kayak, or just take in the stunning views.
The national park and Ben Lomond offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, the Bird of Prey Centre is a must-see.
I’m so glad I had the chance to visit such a beautiful place and experience all of the amazing activities Loch Lomond has to offer.
I know I’ll be back soon!