Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is one of Scotland's most captivating destinations. Established in 2002 as Scotland's first national park. It covers an impressive 720 square miles and includes 21 Munros, over 50 rivers, and 22 lochs. The largest being the world-famous Loch Lomond.
Loch Lomond is the park's crown jewel and the largest freshwater loch in Great Britain by surface area, dotted with over 30 islands. Picturesque villages like Luss and Balmaha sit on its shores. Providing cosy spots to relax or begin a walk, such as the popular climb up Conic Hill for panoramic views of the loch.
Callander – Often considered the gateway to the Highlands, Callander is a bustling town with plenty of shops, cafés, and walking trails. Nearby, you'll find Bracklinn Falls and access to the eastern Trossachs.
Aberfoyle – This village is surrounded by forest and is close to the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. It's an excellent base for outdoor adventures and features the David Marshall Lodge visitor centre.
Arrochar and Tarbet – Located near the Arrochar Alps, these villages are popular with hikers tackling The Cobbler (Ben Arthur), one of Scotland's most iconic peaks.
Crianlarich and Tyndrum – Located in the park's northern area, these small towns are ideal for accessing the West Highland Way and venturing into the high mountains. Tyndrum is home to the famous Green Welly Stop.
The Trossachs – Often referred to as the "Highlands in miniature," this area is packed with scenic glens, lochs, and forests, ideal for walking and cycling.
Luss – A charming village of Luss is on the west shore of Loch Lomond, known for its quaint cottages and stunning lochside views. Luss is also home to the Loch Lomond Fairie Trail.
Loch Katrine - A popular spot for cycling and walking along the peaceful lochside path from Trossachs Pier to Stronachlachar. Scenic cruises aboard the historic SS Sir Walter Scott steamship. (now electric-powered for sustainability).
The park is known for its varied and rugged landscape, combining lochs, glens, woodlands, and mountains. Ben Lomond, one of Scotland's most climbed Munros, offers an accessible route with rewarding views. The area is also a haven for wildlife. With red deer, pine martens, golden eagles, and ospreys among the species that call it home.
Whether you're into hillwalking, cycling, horse riding, or just enjoying the view. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs has something for everyone. The Three Lochs Forest Drive near Aberfoyle offers a scenic car route through peaceful woodland and tranquil lochs.
The park is easily accessible from Glasgow and Stirling, with the southern gateway village of Balloch connected by direct train. It's a perfect day trip or weekend getaway, with plenty of accommodation, camping, and glamping options available throughout the area.
