Loch Lomond Must Sees

Climb Ben Lomond

Visitors have been climbing Ben Lomond for fun since 1756, when the first recorded ascent was by – can you believe it? - a bunch of students. It soon became a popular day out. The ‘sportsman’ Colonel Peter Hawker climbed it in 1812, noting in his published diary that ‘the ascent to the summit is….very passable….so much so, that ladies very commonly go up, and sometimes take with them a piper, and other apparatus for dancing.’ These days the piper is very much an optional extra. But strong footwear and weatherproof apparatus are still recommended for this popular though demanding day out.

Dumbarton Castle

This volcanic hump by River Clyde has the longest history of any fortified place in Scotland – today’s Dumbarton Castle sits on a site occupied since the Dark Ages – and probably further back. St Patrick himself, sometime in the mid-5th century AD, wrote to the King of Strathclyde, complaining about depredations on his fellow countrymen by the locals – the ancient Britons whose capital was on the Rock. (Dumbarton is ‘dun-Briton’ – the fort of the Britons). Amongst the many buildings erected at various times, the oldest structure surviving today is the 14th-century Portcullis Arch. Dumbarton Castle is in the care of Historic Scotland.

The Hill House, Helensburgh

If Helensburgh itself is sometimes called ‘a museum of villas’, then amongst the finest of these domestic dwellings is the Hill House by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. With this commission (in 1902) Mackintosh was allowed to do what he did best – not just the plan of the building, but also the interior decorative schemes, fittings and furnishings – and the garden as well. For the Mackintosh style to work best, it had to be carried through to the small details. (Stop us if we get too pretentious….) See for yourself, as the original furniture, fittings and interior designs have all been reinstated or restored. The Hill House is in the care of the National Trust for Scotland.

Climb the Dumpling

Yes, it’s an odd suggestion – but this dumpling sits at the south end of Loch Lomond and is otherwise known as Duncryne Hill. Park by the road and follow the signs (which are a little idiosyncratic and warn you about not disturbing the teddy bears). A few minutes’ walk (short but steep) gives a superb reward – a spectacular panorama up the loch to the mountains beyond the Highland line. It’s so inspiring that you’re sure to come over all geological, or possibly even glacial. Make sure the camera batteries are charged. Truly one of Scotland’s top, uhmm, five views. Don’t miss it.

Rob Roy’s Cave

You know that Rob Roy Macgregor was real and not just Liam Neeson dressed up? And Rob Roy really did become a legend in his own lifetime (thanks to Daniel Defoe, of Robinson Crusoe fame, writing a book about him). Anyway, all famous historical Scots, such as William Wallace, Robert the Bruce and Bonnie Prince Charlie, had to have caves. Rob Roy’s cave is north of Inversnaid, by the lochside, easily accessible as a wee diversion from the West Highland Way.  As it’s quite hard to spot – which was a useful function of a cave for hiding in – these days it has the word ‘CAVE’ in big white letters painted outside.

Whisky taste/tour

Within easy distance of Loch Lomond, Glengoyne Distillery is tucked below the western end of the Campsie Hills. It’s a scenic and a relaxing setting, totally in keeping with the intention of the folk who make the whisky there. They want you to slow down and relax. After all, their malt whisky is distilled at one-third of the rate of any other malt whisky. They say that’s what makes it such a complex and rewarding taste. You can explore this for yourself by selecting one of their tours. These range from little tasting tours to comprehensive and exclusive total immersions (figuratively speaking) in the art of the distiller. (And yes, of course you get to try the product.)

Loch Lomond Cruising

The Vikings were so keen on cruising on Loch Lomond that they brought their own boats with them. Strictly speaking, they were really looting and pillaging, so this may not count. However, cruising and boat trips have been available on the loch since Victorian times – one of today’s operators was here by the 1880s. Today, cruising is handled by a number of operators and in a variety of formats. These could include island landings, pub visits, barbeques, live commentaries and private charters and can be from one hour upwards. Whatever the programme, it’s a great way of getting to know the loch.

The island of Inchcailloch

If you only have time to visit one of Loch Lomond’s islands, then consider Inchcailloch (and also taking a longer trip next year). The island is a National Nature Reserve and is associated with the local Saint Kentigern. (Its name means ‘island of the old woman’ or ‘cowled woman’ ie nun.) It has lovely oak woodland, bluebells in May and lots of other interesting botany, plus a stunning viewpoint. At 56 hectares it’s the fourth largest of the 39 Loch Lomond islands that have tree cover. It’s also easy to reach on an on-demand ferry service from the Balmaha Boatyard. In short, it’s a Loch Lomond ‘must see’.

Highland Games

They say these spectacular events were originally auditions run by clan chiefs in order to select the fittest and the most entertaining to join their personal retinue – a kind of ‘X-Factor’ for Highlanders, where strength, fitness, skill and musical talent were all on display. Whatever their origins, Highland Games can easily be found in the summer season – there are at least four Highland Games that are held close to the loch – Rosneath, Helensburgh and Lomond, Loch Lomond and Luss – with a choice of several more within easy reach. Tartan, pipe bands and large kilted athletes throwing huge tree trunks around – it’s the ultimate Highland spectacle.

Ceilidhs

Look up a Gaelic dictionary and you’ll see that a ceilidh is a visit, gossiping or even a pilgrimage. In the Highlands of old, local folk gathered of an evening and, before you knew it, the entertainment got under way – not just the gossiping! A ceilidh today means a musical get-together, sometimes but not always with participation. (But don’t worry – we won’t ask you to sing unless you really want to…) It’s more than a concert. For a start, there should be a great ceilidh band at the core of the evening. Sometimes, there might be a piper. Sometimes, a caller guides you through the dances. Ceilidhs vary, as do their settings - but you’ll find them in local hotels and village halls. Ask locally. You’ll be made very welcome.

The Cobbler

From the West Highland Way by Loch Lomond or by the shores of Loch Long, your eye is drawn to the profile of The Cobbler. It’s simply one of Scotland’s most easily identifiable mountains. Though at 2891 ft / 881 metres it doesn’t qualify as a Munro (a mountain over 3000ft / 914metres), it’s long been a popular excursion. Walkers and rock-climbers are drawn to its craggy skyline, with that distinctive overhang. And gues what we’re going to say next? That’s right, you have to be really careful, seriously...

PS Waverley

What’s got a 2100 horsepower triple expansion steam engine and was once bought for £1? The answer is the Paddle Steamer Waverley. Built in 1947 for a service between Craigendorran and Arrochar, at the end of that career in 1974 she was saved when the Paddle Steam Preservation Society bought her. Now, fully refurbished to her original 1940s style, she runs a cruising programme that takes her far beyond the Firth of Clyde. However, you’ll find her in her home waters for another summer of cruises around the seaside towns and islands of the Clyde Coast. With 18ft / 5.5 metre paddle wheels, a steam powered windlass and capstan, and an engine room open to view at any time – fee free to ask questions – this comfortable boat not only has bags of atmosphere but also excellent catering, lounge bars, a souvenir shop and everything to make your trip unforgettable. 

PS Maid of the Loch

The last paddle steamer built in the UK is the Maid of the Loch, dating from 1953. You’ll find her by her pier at Balloch, moments from the Loch Lomond Shores complex.

Falls of Falloch

Glen Falloch has some noted waterfalls. The Romantic poet William Wordsworth called it ‘the vale of awful sound’ – just the sort of thing a romantic poet would say. The Falls of Falloch are probably the best-known and make a pleasant little leg-stretch in fine Highland scenery if you find yourself above Loch Lomond on the Crianlarich stretch of the A82. They are easy to find – there’s a big brown sign and a car-park!

Luss

Long ago, Luss was a place of pilgrimage associated with St Kessog. (He was a Irish saint who lived on the nearby island of Inchtavanich in the 6th century AD.) Today, the attractive lochside community of Luss is still very much on the visitor list, with fine prospects of the loch, its islands and the peak of Ben Lomond.  The Colquhoun family features prominently in the village’s story. In the early 19th century, they built the present Luss village to accommodate their estate workers. Luss is a fine example of a ‘planned village’. It has seen little change since its construction and is a designated Outstanding Conservation Area. In other words, it’s pretty and you’ll like it! Another one for your ‘Loch Lomond don’t miss’ list.

Clyde sea lochs

The great gouging power of ancient glaciers created the fjord-like sea-lochs that make the northern waters of the Clyde estuary such a special place for sailing folk. Go west from Tarbet on Loch Lomond where the mountains loom and it may be a surprise to find the sea just a few minutes away at the head of Loch Long at Arrochar. It is this interplay of high hills and salt water that gives the area part of its unique appeal – and, in places, a real wilderness feel that can only be appreciated by boat.