6 Reasons to visit Loch Lomond this Spring

From exploring forests & glens to scaling the treetops or enjoying a delicious lunch on the bonnie banks, discover everything Loch Lomond has to offer this spring.

Famous Walking Routes

One of National Geographic’s ‘top 10 trails in the world’, the famous West Highland Way connects Glasgow to Fort William, passing right by Loch Lomond. The walk takes in some of the most incredible rugged terrain in Scotland, with rivers, streams, mountains and hillsides to navigate.

But it’s not just about the West Highland Way – which 80,000 people walk annually – there are various routes for all abilities to get out and explore the great outdoors.

Explore an Island

There are 22 islands dotted about on Scotland’s second largest loch, many of which are accessible through water transport. The easiest to visit is Inchcailloch; it’s a remote island with its very own nature reserve and picnicking areas – well worth jumping aboard during an island-hop.

Cruise Loch Lomond offer a waterbus service, where you can enjoy trips to visit these wonderful islands.

It’s perfect for Stargazing

There are plenty of dark skies across Loch Lomond, making it ideal for watching the stars on a clear night. Catching a glimpse of theiconic northern lights is one of the most common things on the bucket list of visitors to Scotland, and you might just get lucky on the bonnie banks.

You can explore some stargazing locations here.

Delicious Food & Drink

Loch Lomond is on the rise as one of Scotland’s foodie hot spots, with a host of local food & drink suppliers serving up the tastiest of produce. Although the famous Loch Lomond Food & Drink Festival doesn’t return until September (what better excuse to return?), there are a host of delicious cafes, delis, bars & restaurantsdotted along the loch – many of which are pet friendly.

Add to this whisky distilleries, traditional butchers, and quaint farm shops (such as the one at Auchentullich), and you’ll really sample the taste of Scotland!

An abundance of Attractions

Loch Lomond may be famous for its landscape and scenery, but there’s a host of attractions situated on the banks of the loch as well – making for the perfect day out with family or friends. Meet Orla, the Golden Eagle at the Bird of Prey Centre or get close to Scotland’s largest collection of sharks at the Sea Life Centre – both located at the Lomond Shores complex.

If you’re looking for something more adrenaline-pumping, then why not test your balance on the treetop adventure course at TreeZone?

You can explore nearby attractions here.

You don’t need to go far to hit the slopes

Scotland is renowned for it’s fantastic ski resorts, which can be open until as late as April or May, depending on snow cover. Glencoe Mountain Range is just a 40 minute drive from Loch Lomond, through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the country and is well worth a day trip.

If you’ve never tried it before, they also offer ski & snowboard lessons. But don’t worry if you want something a bit less extreme – you can enjoy a gondola ride up the mountain or warm up with some tasty food & drink in the café.

Find out more about Glencoe Mountain here.