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Loch Lomond is one of the largest lakes in Scotland. It is located about an hour north of Glasgow, in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Loch Lomond sits along the Highland Boundary Fault, which is generally considered to be the boundary between the Highlands and lowlands of Central Scotland. It is the largest lakes in surface area and the second largest by water volume (after Loch Ness) in Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales) and the one of the largest in the British Isles.

 

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HOW TO GET TO LOCH LOMOND

Trains from Glasgow to Oban/Fort William stop near Loch Lomond; debark at Tarbet to connect a waterbus that will take you to the eastern shore, Balmaha, and Ben Lomond. This train route is considered one of the most scenic in the world, so if you have the time, it’s definitely worth it. For day trips, or for travellers with less time, there is a direct Glasgow to Balloch train that leaves twice an hour and takes around 50 minutes. Buses from Glasgow to Fort William also stop near the park.

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If you have your own transportation, take the M8 from Glasgow to the M898 and then the A82, which takes you straight into Balloch. If you are in Edinburgh and wish to visit, you will need to drive to Glasgow first and then follow the above directions.

Hikers that traverse the West Highland Way spend a full day on the shores of Loch Lomond. The trail begins in Glasgow and ends in Fort William; it is an eight day trek through the Highlands.

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WHAT TO DO AT LOCH LOMOND

Play a round.
There are two golf courses at Loch Lomond. The original, the Loch Lomond Golf Club, hosts international tournaments including the Scottish Open. A newer course, The Carrick, is right next door.

Hike Ben Lomond.
This stunning 12km walk takes only 5 to 6 hours to complete, and it comes with breathtaking views back across the loch. Ben Lomond is a Munro – a Scottish peak over 914m – and if you hike it, you can claim that you “bagged a Munro.” Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park has over 21 Munros and 19 Corbetts (peaks over 762m). So if you’re keen for a hike, this is definitely the place to do it.

Families with small children or walkers only interested in a day (or shorter) walk can take advantage of the many walks around the loch and through the villages.

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Image source  lovelochlomond.com

Cruise the loch.
Jump aboard a water taxi or cruise boat to explore the loch from a different perspective. Ferries run between different towns. So you can certainly get around that way, or you can simply join a leisure cruise that will show you a different side of the park. As far as we know, there are no water horses lurking below the surface (but you never know.)

Pedal along.
Bicycle enthusiasts can do a variety of two-wheeled adventures, from mountain biking to road cycling. Its possible to take your bike on one of the water taxis too. The National Cycle Network Route 7 runs from Glasgow into the park.

Stargaze.
Scotland has some of Europe’s darkest skies, and the Trossachs is the perfect place to stare into the heavens. It is also an International Dark Sky Reserve, a group dedicated to protecting the rural landscapes where we can view our galaxy.

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WHERE TO STAY IN LOCH LOMOND

You have plenty of options for accommodation at Loch Lomond, from simple country lodges to estates and luxury hotels. Below is a short list of accommodation in and around the loch.

Ardlui Hotel, Ardlui, Loch Lomond, Nr Arrochar G83 7EB, United Kingdom

Arrochar Hotel, Loch Lomond, Arrochar G83 7AU, United Kingdom

Cameron House, A82, Loch Lomond, Alexandria G83 8QZ, UK

Rowardennan Hotel, Rowardennan G63 0AR, UK

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Imaes source  scottishtours.co.uk

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