15 things to do in Loch Lomond. Loch Lomond, a central feature of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and the largest freshwater lake in Britain, boasts stunning vistas and diverse attractions. This picturesque area, with its serene waters and rolling hills, is a hub for a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it a perfect spot for Loch Lomond wildlife watching. Enthusiasts will particularly enjoy the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, home to an array of magnificent birds. For those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty, it’s an idyllic location for photography and nature observation.
For adventurers, there are numerous things to do in Loch Lomond. The region offers a plethora of trails that cater to all abilities, including the challenging ascent of Ben Lomond and parts of the celebrated West Highland Way, making it ideal for those interested in hiking near Loch Lomond. In the summertime, the loch becomes a playground for water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, offering unique Loch Lomond adventures. Additionally, tranquil boat tours provide a splendid opportunity for sightseeing from the water.
In addition to outdoor activities, the Loch Lomond guide reveals the area’s rich cultural history. With nearby historic sites such as Dumbarton Castle and quaint villages along its shores, the locale is steeped in Scottish traditions, including music, folklore, and culinary delights. All these aspects combine to make Loch Lomond a multifaceted destination, offering a wide range of attractions and experiences for visitors.
Below, you’ll find about 15 things to do in Loch Lomond and near Loch Lomond. You will also learn about Loch Lomond attractions and activities.
Take Loch Lomond Cruise
Embark on a delightful journey onto the waters of Loch Lomond, a highly recommended and popular Loch Lomond attraction. Enjoy the stunning vistas of the loch with a peaceful boat tour, offered regularly from Balloch by Sweeney’s Cruises. Their one-hour Experience Cruise provides an intimate view of Inchmurrin, the loch’s largest island. Additionally, Sweeney’s offers a convenient waterbus service, connecting Luss and Balmaha, adding to the variety of things to do in Loch Lomond.
Family Day Out in Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond Shores, designed as a welcoming entrance to Loch Lomond, is a splendid combination of shopping and leisure, making it a top pick among Loch Lomond attractions for a family day out. This destination not only boasts a visitor centre but also offers a range of outdoor activities, such as canoe hire and various other water sports, perfect for family adventures in Loch Lomond.
Families will find plenty to do at Loch Lomond Shores, with a host of regular, complimentary activities for children. Key attractions include the Sea Life Loch Lomond Aquarium and the Bird of Prey Centre, adding to the diverse array of family activities Loch Lomond has to offer.
Discover Loch Lomond on a Bike
Explore Loch Lomond on two wheels, a fantastic option among the many things to do in Loch Lomond. The area is equipped with numerous cycle paths, bike hire services, and bike racks, enhancing your Loch Lomond adventures. Additionally, you have the convenience of taking your bicycle on various cruises and waterbus services, allowing for a unique combination of cycling and Loch Lomond wildlife watching experiences.
Climbing With a View
Scale a peak for breathtaking views of Loch Lomond. Notable hills like Conic Hill, Duncryne Hill (also known as The Dumpling), or the majestic Ben Lomond offer some of the finest panoramas and are prime examples of hiking near Loch Lomond. Climbing and bouldering have a storied history in the Trossachs National Park, making them top Loch Lomond attractions and adventures.
Shop at Local’s Market
Gather a selection of treats and enjoy a picnic at your chosen location. The Loch Lomond Shores Market, a delightful addition to Loch Lomond attractions. It’s a perfect activity to include in your list of things to do in Loch Lomond.
Speedboat Tour Adventrue Loch Lomond
Embark on an exhilarating outdoor adventure around Loch Lomond with a variety of activities. Experience the thrill of a speedboat tour with Portnellan Farm Speedboat Tours, explore the gorges with In Your Element, or take on a heart-pumping 4×4 off-road driving adventure with 4×4 Adventures Scotland. These are just a few of the exciting Loch Lomond attractions and adventures waiting for you in this dynamic area, offering a wide range of things to do in Loch Lomond.
Visit Loch Lomond Distillery
Explore the historic Loch Lomond Distillery, originally established in 1814 near the shores of Loch Lomond and now situated in Alexandria. This distillery, an intriguing Loch Lomond attraction, is renowned for producing both malt and grain whiskies using a unique trio of stills.
As a highlight among things to do in Loch Lomond, the distillery is famed for crafting the official “Spirit of the Open” in collaboration with the Royal and Ancient Golf Club. Their distinguished 22-year-old single malt whisky, matured in American Oak casks and finished in Bordeaux red wine barriques, is celebrated for its complex, fruity essence, embodying the rich heritage of Loch Lomond.
Experience Wonderful Wildlife and Nature
Delve into the splendid natural world with a weekend nature stroll at RSPB Loch Lomond, a perfect opportunity for wildlife watching and embarking on Loch Lomond adventures. Additionally, The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre in Aberfoyle offers an array of family-friendly activities and walks, ideal for those seeking family activities in Loch Lomond.
Visit Local Towns and Villages
Numerous small towns and villages around Loch Lomond eagerly await your exploration. Below is our selection of some of the finest ones to visit:
Croftamie
Croftamie, with its serene Scottish countryside charm, is a hidden gem. Home to the enchanting Dalnair Castle, it offers a glimpse into historical elegance amidst lush landscapes. Perfect for those seeking tranquility and a touch of history, Croftamie is an ideal spot for exploring Scotland’s natural and architectural beauty.
Balmacha
Balmaha, a charming village on Loch Lomond’s eastern shore, is a true gem. Renowned for its scenic beauty, it offers direct access to the tranquil waters of Loch Lomond and the rugged trails of Conic Hill. Ideal for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking peace, Balmaha promises an unforgettable experience.
Luss
Luss, nestled on the shores of Loch Lomond, is celebrated for its charming stone cottages and vibrant gardens. This historic village invites you to enjoy serene walks by the loch, immerse in traditional Scottish culture, and marvel at the magnificent mountain views, making it an essential destination for visitors.
For those journeying to Luss with children, the Faerie Trail is a delightful family attraction. Tickets and a trail guide are available at the silver Loch Lomond Adventures caravan in the new car park. Luss serves as a gateway to some of the most enchanting family trails in Loch Lomond, brimming with fairy houses and magical forest walks.
Taking a leisurely wander through the Loch Lomond Faerie Trail with your family offers a spellbinding two hours of fairy-themed paths, a highlight among family activities in Loch Lomond and a magical addition to the list of things to do in Loch Lomond.
Balloch
Situated at the southern tip of Loch Lomond, Balloch serves as a gateway to the awe-inspiring landscapes of Loch Lomond, the Trossachs National Park, and beyond.
The town centre of Balloch is well-equipped with all necessary amenities, including a range of lodgings, golf courses, eateries, and shops, making it an ideal starting point for your adventures. Exploring the local attractions in Balloch is a must before delving deeper into the national park.
A key highlight is the Balloch Castle & Country Park. This Gothic-style castle, perched beside the loch, offers a rich historical narrative and stunning views, set in Loch Lomond’s sole public country park.
Balloch also boasts a storied heritage, reflected in its picturesque surroundings. Attractions such as the Fairy Glen, the Chinese Garden, Pleasure Grounds, and Quarry Pond each tell a part of the castle’s historic tale, adding to the variety of Loch Lomond attractions and things to do in Balloch, Loch Lomond.
Dumbarton
Dumbarton, steeped in rich Scottish history, is famous for its iconic castle perched on a volcanic rock, offering panoramic views of the Clyde. This town blends cultural heritage with natural beauty, providing visitors with a unique experience of ancient ruins, scenic walks, and an insight into Scotland’s storied past.
Picnic at a Loch Lomond Bay
Loch Lomond boasts numerous splendid bays and spots perfect for a picnic along its ‘Bonnie Banks’. The western shores feature picturesque locations like Duck Bay, Firkin Point, and Inveruglas, while Milarrochy Bay graces the eastern shores. These scenic spots are not only top Loch Lomond attractions but also ideal for family activities in Loch Lomond. They offer a serene setting for wildlife watching and relaxing, making them a must-do for anyone visiting the area.
The Devil’s Pulpit
Nestled amidst towering rock formations, a narrow stream winds its way, captivating the adventurous souls who navigate this rugged labyrinth.
The Devil’s Pulpit stands as a beguiling attraction near Loch Lomond, intriguing visitors with its unique geological formation and stirring curiosity about its origins. This fascinating site is a highlight among the things to do near Loch Lomond, offering a glimpse into nature’s mysterious beauty.
Wallabies of Inchconnachan
In the heart of Loch Lomond lies the intriguing island of Inchconnachan, home to a unique population of Britain’s red-necked wallabies. These wallabies, introduced to the uninhabited island post-World War II, have thrived and offer a unique opportunity for photography enthusiasts.
This habitat is among the premier Loch Lomond attractions and a testament to the Trossachs National Park Authority’s successful conservation efforts. When visiting, it’s crucial to respect and responsibly interact with these fascinating creatures, adding a distinctive experience to the list of things to do in Loch Lomond.
The Whangie
On your way to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, consider a short hike up the Whangie hills. This easy ascent features a unique geological formation – a deep split in the mountain, rumoured to be the work of the devil himself.
The Whangie has become a famed climbing landmark in the area, known for its peculiar characteristics. It serves as an excellent introduction to the region, perfect for getting your hiking legs ready as you journey from other Scottish centres like Edinburgh and Glasgow to Loch Lomond. This intriguing site is a must-see among Loch Lomond attractions and a great addition to your list of things to do in Loch Lomond.
Loch Lomond Seaplanes
Loch Lomond Seaplanes, based at the Cameron House Hotel, provides exhilarating flightseeing excursions over Scotland’s stunning west coast. The experience of taking off and landing on Loch Lomond itself adds a unique twist to your journey.
These flights showcase the breathtaking views of Loch Fyne and the Kyles of Bute, soaring over the Kintyre peninsula and on to the islands of Islay, Jura, and Gigha. As a special offering, the seaplanes also land on Jura, allowing passengers two hours to explore the island’s picturesque landscapes.
This aerial adventure is one of the most thrilling Loch Lomond attractions and adds an extraordinary element to the things to do in Loch Lomond, making it an unforgettable part of any Loch Lomond adventures.
Wake Up With an Enchanting View
What could be more delightful than beginning your day with a stunning view? Savour your morning tea as you observe the local wildlife, and spend your leisure time exactly as you deserve. Finn Village is more than just accommodation near Loch Lomond; it’s an unforgettable experience, a cherished memory, a moment in time. Ideal for families, couples on romantic getaways, birthday celebrations, or mini-moons, Finn Village also warmly welcomes your furry friends. Allow Finn Village to be your sanctuary, crafting your treasured memories against the verdant backdrop of Loch Lomond and its wildlife watching opportunities.
Nestled at the boundary of the mystical Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, Finn Village stands as a symbol of unparalleled luxury amidst the breathtaking beauty of Scotland.
Our diverse offerings span from quaint glamping pod, a harmonious fusion of wilderness allure and modern amenities, to the refined grandeur of our country house Bed & Breakfast.
Owned and operated with familial warmth, Finn Village is set against the picturesque backdrop of Stirlingshire’s landscapes. A stone’s throw from the charming Croftamie Village, we serve as your gateway to Scotland’s emblematic locations: the captivating Loch Lomond, the enigmatic Devil’s Pulpit, the esteemed Glengoyne Distillery, and the scenic Campsie Hills. And with the tranquil havens of Croftamie and Drymen in close proximity, you’re always within reach of cosy cafes, welcoming pubs, and boutique shops.
Want to secure your unforgettable stay at Finn Village? Book it today!
