TOP 10: Facts About Loch Lomond

Did you know that one of Scotland’s most popular tourist destinations is the beautiful National Park of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs?

It’s a truly stunning and unique location.

It has something for everyone, with its impressive landscapes, rugged mountains and tranquil lochs, whilst also being steeped in rich history.

Let’s Discover Some Interesting Facts About Loch Lomond…

1. Within Easy Reach of Glasgow

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs is an area with lots to explore and is just an hour by car from Glasgow.

It can also be easily reached by train, with direct links from Glasgow to different parts of Loch Lomond.

You can catch a train to Balloch to visit the southern end of the loch. Or, to discover the north end of the loch, take a train from Glasgow to Arrochar & Tarbet station.

2. Located in Scotland’s first National Park

Loch Lomond is within Loch Lomond and the Trossachs - the first National Park to be established by the Scottish Parliament in 2002.

This spectacular national park is the 4th largest in the British Isles, with a total area of 720 square miles (1,865 km2). It’s a walkers’ paradise with its variety of hills, mountains and Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet) to explore.

3. Largest Lake in Great Britain

Loch Lomond is the largest lake in Great Britain by surface area. It is 27.5 square miles (71 km2).

It’s a beautiful freshwater loch which is 22.6 miles long.

4. Paradise for Wildlife Lovers

Loch Lomond is home to many animals, including badgers, pine martens, beavers, bats, red squirrels and seals.

You can also spot graceful ospreys along the eastern shore of the loch, as well as soaring golden eagles with their magnificent wingspan of over 2 metres.

5. Interesting Collection Of Islands

The waters of the loch contain 22 islands, along with 27 islets. An islet is the name given to a small island.

Many of them have ‘inch’ in their name, which is derived from the Gaelic word ‘innis’ meaning island. Some of them are privately owned, whilst some are open to the public, offering stunning scenic views.

6. Fantastic Choice of Walking Trails

You can explore the area by taking a walk in the stunning surroundings.

Whilst it would take 20 hours to walk around the loch, you’ll find a wide variety of trails, suitable for all abilities – everything from a gentle stroll to a more challenging hike.

7. Great for Exploring by Bike

As well as many walking paths, there are hundreds of miles of bike routes for all cycling abilities.

You’ll find everything from peaceful, family-friendly bike rides to more challenging mountain bike trails.

8. Ideal for Wild Swimming

Open water swimming is really growing in popularity, with many people choosing to brave the waters in Loch Lomond.

It’s an exhilarating experience, although it is important to follow the correct safety guidance. There are also organised events for those wanting to learn more about this popular sport.

9. Located on the Highland Boundary Fault

Loch Lomond is situated on a major fault zone in the earth’s crust – the Highland Boundary Fault.

Running diagonally across Scotland from Arran in the west to Stonehaven in the east, it’s an area of great interest to geologists as the fault zone separates two types of geological terrain – the Highlands in the north and the Lowlands in the south.