Kevin Mak“O ye’ll tak’ the high road, and I’ll tak’ the low road,
And I’ll be in Scotland a’fore ye,
But me and my true love will never meet again,
On the bonnie, bonnie banks o’ Loch Lomond”
This loch (Scottish Gaelic for lake) is so beloved in Scotland that there’s even a prominent traditional song dedicated to it! And no, it’s not the Loch Ness where the infamous Loch Ness monster resides. The Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park sure is a mouthful but its beauty and natural splendour is unparalleled in Scotland, and maybe even the UK.
Image credit: john mcsporran
This colossal national park, the fourth largest in the British Isles, is almost three times the size of Singapore! Its beauty is of a magnitude similar to its size, hence a visit to this enchanting national park is a must when you’re in Scotland. Here’s the lowdown on what’s there to see and do in this gigantic natural spectacle.
Image credit: Calypso Orchid
Hike.
In the confines of such lush greenery and picturesque scenery, hiking is definitely a must-do in the park! Cycling is an option too but why whizz past everything when you can slowly take in and immerse yourself in the surroundings? The Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority has catalogued a list of hikes ranging from as short as 30 minutes to a few hours – check them out here!
Image credit: BowBelle51
Hiking’s not your cup of tea? No worries. Hop on the Loch Lomond and Loch Katrine Waterbus Services and cruise down the national park! Drop off at Inchcailloch or Inversnaid for some magnificent views amidst pure tranquillity and solitude amidst the remote wilderness. Rowardennan Pier is located directly in front of a Youth Hostel for those seeking to spend a night or two in the heart of Loch Lomond!
Image credit: Karen
Oh, and you’ll probably bump into the occasional wildlife during your visit here.
Image credit: Kirsty McLaughlan
As well as a 19th-century castle in an isolated corner of the national park.
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If you’re lucky, you may just chance upon one of the dozens of waterfalls in this national park during your exploration! Do note that many waterfalls, though spectacularly beautiful, are pretty difficult to access and you may find the journey there overly strenuous as some paths are not neatly paved.
Image credit: George Paterson
For the bold who decide to brave the rugged terrain of Loch Lomond, aim for the Arrochar Alps, one of the highest points in the national park. We promise you that you’ll be rewarded with some unbelievably magnificent views from above.
Image credit: John Mcsporran
Perhaps The Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is exactly where you need to be. At the end of it, you’ll be singing to the tunes of the “bonnie, bonnie banks o’ Loch Lomond”.
Getting there: Glasgow – Balloch via ScotRail operates a direct line from Glasgow Queen Street and the journey takes 50 minutes, running approximately twice every hour.
