Blog

Our Spotty Otter Ambassadors @nikkiholmes4 have written us a great blog post about exploring Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park which is one of two national parks in Scotland. Established in 2002, it lies to the north of Glasgow and has an area of 720 square miles, which includes towns such as Lochgoilhead, Crianlarich, Callander and Balloch, and is filled with lochs, mountains, and wildlife. There is so much to do in such a beautiful part of Scotland. Here are 5 of our favourite day tips that we enjoy with our wee one.

Conic Hill Hike

If you like hill walking with your kids, then Conic Hill is fantastic for families. Standing at 361m high, it is small but mighty, and provides stunning 360-degree views, mainly across Loch Lomond and you can see as far the Arrochar Alps. The walk begins at the large public car park in the village of Balmaha, which is accessed by cars and buses from Drymen nearby. On a nice day spaces can fill up quickly, so it is a good idea to start early. The path is signposted, well walked on, and easy enough to follow all the way to the top. You start by passing through a peaceful forest before the short incline section begins which might be a little challenge for smaller legs. However, there are plenty of places to pause and catch a breath as the gradient eases, and if you decide not to venture all the way, remarkable views are provided at the grassy Bealach Ard, which is just over halfway. With the summit in sight, it’s a further short ascent on the main path, and you retrace your steps to descend. For the peckish among you, the Oak Tree Inn is well worth a visit for some rewarding pub grub and is located straight across the road from the car park.

The Three Lochs Forest Drive

If you fancy something less strenuous, but incredibly scenic, then the Three Lochs Forest Drive is a 7-mile-long stretch of road amongst the forestry between Aberfoyle and Callander. The route is reached via the Duke’s Pass, after the Go Ape centre, and takes you past Lochan Reòidhte, to Loch Drunkie (which has to be one of my favourite named lochs), Venachar and Achray. You’ll be spoiled for choice with the nature on show and have lots of wildlife for the little ones to spot. We like to keep our eyes peeled for deer and red squirrels, and if you’re lucky enough you might see an osprey fishing on the water. There are various spots to park and have a picnic, or explore the short trail walks amongst the woodland, with the banks of Loch Drunkie being a favourite. Whether opting to get out of the car on the way, or just taking in the nice slow drive, there is something for everyone on this journey.

Luss Village

Luss is a beautiful little village on the banks of Loch Lomond and a popular place to visit all year round. There is lots to do and it is a memorable day trip. One of our favourite activities is the Loch Lomond Faerie Trail, which takes you through the woods on the hunt for fairies, goblins, and trolls, and is great for kids to explore and let their imaginations run wild. At one mile long, it takes approximately 1-3 hours to complete depending on your speed and snack breaks: your youngsters can go at their own pace, climb obstacles, jump in puddles, and follow the game in the trail booklet, so it's fun and interactive. Although it is fairly easy to follow, there are some short steep sections and a narrow bridge crossing that it isn’t pram friendly, so I would recommend a baby carrier if your little ones won’t be walking. You start at Luss Car Park, and can purchase tickets from the silver van there, if you haven’t already got them online. There are seasonal events throughout the year to provide a separate experience, like Halloween or Christmas. Once you’re finished, there is the option to walk around the village shops to the beach and pier, where you can hire water sports equipment, and take a boat trip across Loch Lomond.

Loch Lomond Shores

This little shopping centre on the banks of Loch Lomond is a great place to stop for a coffee or a bite to eat, before going on a low-level walk. The Shores has a couple of cafes, and shops that sell outdoor goods and gifts. On the first and third Sunday of every month there is a market with a lovely selection of stalls for small businesses, who offer a variety of foods, soaps, jewellery and more. Beside the shopping centre there is a play park for kids to run about and stretch their legs, which is absolutely needed after a shopping trip. From there, several trail walks are signposted, taking you along the water’s edge and providing stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Milarrochy Bay

This is one of my favourite places to visit in the National Park mainly because of the stunning scenery. The bay is made up of pebble and sand and is situated right on the ‘Bonnie Banks’ of Loch Lomond, with stunning views of the surrounding hills. Milarrochy has a great vibe, as you can bring the kids for a BBQ or picnic, and it is popular with many water sports activities: in the warmer months, you will see outdoor swimmers, paddle boards, kayaks, and boats. We like to sit at the shore and throw stones into the water and wander among the trees surrounding the bay. For your trip there, the bay car park is free, but also can fill up quickly. However, with Balmaha nearby, you can park at Conic Hill and walk along the famous West Highland Way to Milarrochy.