The 'bonnie banks' and 'bonnie braes' of Loch Lomond have long been Glasgow's rural retreat. The main tourist focus is on the loch's western shore, along the A82. The eastern shore, followed by the West Highland Way long-distance footpath, is quieter. The region's importance was recognised when it became the heart of Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park (www.lochlomond-trossachs.org) – Scotland's first national park, created in 2002.
The nearby Trossachs is a region famous for its thickly forested hills and scenic lochs. It first gained popularity in the early 19th century when curious visitors came from across Britain, drawn by the romantic language of Walter Scott's poem Lady of the Lake, inspired by Loch Katrine, and his novel Rob Roy, about the derring-do of the region's most famous son.
The main centre for Loch Lomond boat trips is Balloch, where Sweeney's Cruises ( www.sweeneyscruises.com; Balloch Rd, Balloch) offers a range of outings, including a one-hour cruise to Inchmurrin and back (adult/child £8.50/5, departs hourly).
Loch Katrine Cruises ( www.lochkatrine.com; Trossachs Pier; 1hr cruise adult/child £13/8; hEaster-Oct) runs boat trips from Trossachs Pier at the eastern tip of Loch Katrine. At 10.30am there’s a departure to Stronachlachar at the other end of the loch before returning. One of these is the fabulous centenarian steamship Sir Walter Scott.
Balloch, at the southern end of Loch Lomond, can be easily reached from Glasgow by bus (£4.50, 1½ hours, at least two per hour) or train (£5.10, 45 minutes, every 30 minutes).
For exploring the Trossachs, your own transport is recommended.
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