Scotland is bursting at the seams with places of great beauty, from UNESCO sites such as St Kilda to its National Parks. Did you know Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park was Scotland’s first national park? Established in 2002, it covers 720 square miles across the central belt of Scotland. Here is what you must see when visiting the park.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park ©MDHardingVisiting Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
Getting To Loch Lomond
Areas of Loch Lomond can be reached with public transport, but I would highly recommend a car, as it will give you lots more flexibility to explore the area and scenic drives.
From Edinburgh, the easiest route is via the M9/Stirling. It can take between 1-2 hours depending on traffic. Enroute you might like to visit Stirling with its historical attractions such as Stirling Castle, Wallace Monument, Battle of Bannockburn Centre and much more.
Or you could also travel by car via the M8/Glasgow and visit family-friendly attractions such as the Five Sisters Zoo with Lions and different species of Lemurs, all the way from Madagascar, plus lots more!
Bamboo Lemur ©MDHardingLoch Lomond Shores
There is something for everyone at Loch Lomond Shores in Balloch. The site has a shopping complex, there is also the Sealife Centre, crazy golf, boat trips and scheduled events throughout the year. Great for a family day out!
Loch Lomond Shores ©MDHardingBen Lomond
Are you an avid walker or perhaps looking to bag your first Munro? Loch Lomond is home to Ben Lomond, one of Scotland’s smaller Munro’s, standing at 974 metres tall. With incredible views from the top, this one is a must!
Light up Ben Lomond Night Walk. ©MDHardingAberfoyle
Did you know you can see the Scottish Helian Coo at the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park? There is also a number of walking routes through the park to enjoy nature at it’s best, with waterfalls and bird observation areas. There is also Go Ape adventure – Scotland’s premier tree top adventure course and the Sir Walter Scott Steamship at Loch Katrine.
Also don’t miss the home of Rob Roy – Balquidder, the beautiful waterscapes of Killin and the quaint town of Callander.
Helian Coo ©MDHardingGreat places to visit year round, though Autumn is my favourite time to visit, with the colourful autumnal display. Truly spectacular!
I hope you have enjoyed reading about Scotland’s first national park – Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. If you did, don’t forget to share. Happy Travels:) x