Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park – The Perfect Weekend Escape
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is one of Scotland’s most accessible outdoor destinations — just over an hour from both Edinburgh and Glasgow. With its mix of tranquil lochs, forested glens, and dramatic hills, it’s the perfect spot for everything from gentle day trips to full weekend adventures.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing lochside escape, a hike up Ben Lomond, or simply exploring charming villages like Luss and Balmaha, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this beautiful part of Scotland.
Lochside Walks and Mountain Adventures
Ben Lomond (974m)
Scotland’s most southerly Munro, Ben Lomond towers over the eastern shore of the loch and is a popular choice for both locals and visitors. The main path from Rowardennan is well-maintained and fairly straightforward, offering incredible panoramic views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding Trossachs.
The summit can usually be reached in around 3–4 hours for most walkers, with plenty of photo stops along the way. For the more adventurous, a loop can be made via the Ptarmigan Ridge — steeper in places, but rewarding with quieter trails and stunning scenery.
The Cobbler (Ben Arthur)
Across the loch to the west, near Arrochar, lies The Cobbler — one of Scotland’s most iconic Corbetts (mountains between 2,500 and 3,000 feet). Known for its dramatic triple peaks and striking rock formations, it’s a favourite among climbers and hillwalkers alike. The route takes around 4–5 hours and provides some of the best mountain views in the southern Highlands, without needing to tackle a full Munro.
These two hills make perfect bookends for a weekend trip — Ben Lomond offering the classic Munro experience, and The Cobbler adding something a little wilder and more dramatic.
Boating, Kayaking & Lochside Adventures
The calm waters of Loch Lomond are ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating, with several hire points and guided trips available in Balloch, Luss, and Balmaha. The loch is vast — over 20 miles long — and has more than 30 islands, some of which can be explored by kayak or small boat.
Fishing is also popular, with trout and pike commonly caught. Just remember a permit is required in most areas.
The Drovers Inn & Beinglas Farm
A local landmark at Inverarnan, the Drovers Inn dates back to the 1700s and is famous for its character — and its ghost stories. It’s a must-visit for food and a drink after a long day on the hills.
Just behind sits Beinglas Farm Campsite, a popular stop for hikers on the West Highland Way. With excellent facilities and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a great base for exploring the northern end of the loch or starting your next day’s adventure.
Camping Around Loch Lomond
There’s a wide range of camping options for every kind of visitor:
Beinglas Farm Campsite – ideal for walkers and those on the West Highland Way.
Cashel Campsite – a family-friendly site on the eastern shore.
Luss Campsite – great for lochside access and water activities.
Wild camping is also allowed in certain areas, but permits are required between March and September in some lochside zones. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code — camp responsibly, avoid busy spots, and leave no trace.
Rangers, Permits & Responsible Camping
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is one of Scotland’s most visited outdoor areas, and during the busier months (March to September), certain parts of the park are managed through Camping Management Zones.
In these areas, visitors are asked to camp only at designated sites or to purchase a low-cost camping permit (usually around £4 per person per night). The permit system helps reduce litter, protect wildlife habitats, and ensure everyone can enjoy the loch responsibly.
National Park Rangers patrol the area regularly — not to spoil the fun, but to support visitors, provide advice, and protect the environment. They can guide you to suitable camping spots, help with local information, and make sure fires and waste are handled properly.
If you’re unsure where you can camp, it’s best to check the park’s official camping map or ask a ranger when you arrive.
For the rest of the park, wild camping is still welcome under Scotland’s Outdoor Access Code — just remember to camp well away from buildings, roads, and loch shores, and always leave no trace.
What to Pack or Rent
If you’re heading to Loch Lomond for a short break, there’s no need to buy everything new. At Scotlander, we offer affordable gear hire for walkers, campers, and weekend explorers.
Recommended items for this area include:
Family or two-person tents
Warm sleeping mats and sleeping bags
Lightweight hiking rucksacks
Compact gas stoves or cooking kits
Hiking poles for steep or uneven ground
Even just hiring one or two items can make your trip easier and save space when travelling.
Getting There
Loch Lomond is easy to reach by car via the A82, or by train to Balloch, Arrochar, or Crianlarich. Buses also connect most of the key villages, and the West Highland Way follows the eastern shore for much of its route.
Explore Scotland with Scotlander
Whether you’re tackling Ben Lomond, climbing The Cobbler, or relaxing at Beinglas Farm, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park offers one of the best weekend escapes in Scotland.
If you’re planning a trip and need quality outdoor gear, Scotlander offers affordable hiking and camping equipment hire – ideal for weekend getaways, hillwalks, and lochside adventures.