Day 1
Arrival and transfer from Glasgow to Loch Lomond
Day 2
The Foothills of Ben Lomond
- Scenic, informative history trail on past livelihoods
- Enjoy the views from the water - a short cruise on Loch Lomond
This versatile walk on the romantic east shore of Loch Lomond explores the gentle hillside at the foot of the loch's big mountain, Ben Lomond (974m) – a super introduction to Highland landscapes and not too taxing a hike for a first day.
The ancient settlement of Wester Sallochy reveals traces of a remarkably industrious and industrial past.
In the afternoon, we take a short cruise round the islands on one of Balmaha's romantic 'mailboats' and enjoy majestic alpine views of the Highlands. (4 hrs walk, 60m alt)
Day 3
West Highland Way & Inchcailloch Island
- A splendid hike on Scotland's famous long path
- Boat to a lovely island: wild deer, birds, 13th century ruin
This walk is an excellent introduction to the Scottish Highlands. A gentle elevation with ever changing views over the hills and a first sense of the wide, expansive landscapes Scotland has to offer. The peak of Conic Hill marks a spectacular geological fault line and offers panoramic views as far as the coast, the Isle of Arran and the Highland mountains. (3 hrs walk, 361 m alt)
After picnic lunch we take a short boat ride from Balmaha across to the romantic island of Inchcailloch where we walk its magic woods and come across ancient history of local clans and hermit saints - and the most wonderful views over the loch. (1 hr walk, 87m alt)
Day 4
The Trossachs, Loch Katrine and the shores of Loch Lomond
- See the beautiful 'Trossachs' Forests of Rob Roy
- Sail on the elegant Victorian steamship 'SS Walter Scott'
- Walk in Loch Lomond's romantic and rugged wild country
The lush and dense Trossachs forests, dotted with picturesque lakes, were the home of Scotland's famous Rob Roy who roamed the area to steal from the rich and provide for the poor. Loch Katrine, the biggest of the Trossachs lakes, is set amidst rugged hills and features as the romantic backdrop in Walter Scott's 19th century legends and poems.
The day begins with a drive through this beautiful area to Loch Katrine where you board the 19th century steamship" Sir Walter Scott". Following the 45 minutes sailing to the northern end of the lake is a brief journey to Loch Lomond. After lunch we spend the afternoon walking along the shore past 'Rob Roy's Cave' enjoying magnificent views across the water to the peaks of the southern Highland mountains. (4 hrs walk, undulating)
Day 5
The Arrochar Alps - Craggy Peaks and Glaciated Valleys
- Explore Buttermilk Glen and conquer Bealach a'Mhaim pas
- Experience wild glaciated valleys and craggy mountains
Highland scenery at its best: we drive along the high road and the bonny banks of this largest of freshwater stretches in Britain enjoying wide views across to the grandiose heights of Ben Lomond, the most southerly of the 'Munros'.
Straight from the sea rise the bizarre and domineering formations of the Arrochar Alps to the west of Loch Lomond. Inconquerable as they seem it is a delight on relatively good paths to hike amoungst this mass of rock and experience a whole array of different landscapes with spectacular views across the wide estuary of the Clyde and wild mountains to the west.
An invigorating and satisfying walk covering a hight of 500m. You will want to come back for those peaks next time!(4 - 5 hrs walk, 500m)
Day 6
Ben A'an in the Trossachs & cycling along Loch Katrin's shores
- Climbing this mini volcano is fun and offers grand views
- Enjoy a fabulous cycle ride along the shore of Loch Katrine
This ancient volcanic plug offers superb views of the Trossachs and is an excellent introduction to the geography of the area. A great hike of about 3.5 hours.
After lunch you have the choice of a fabulously scenic cycle ride along the scenic shores of Loch Katrine or you can walk it, if you prefer.
Day 7
Waterfalls, Wild Goats and Kilts in Glen Falloch (Loch Lomond)
- Spot some feral goats and ancient ruins in wild country
- Catch a boat for a dram in one of Scotland's oldest pubs
This delightful and gentle walk along an old cattle drovers' path takes us past the great Ben Glass waterfall to the rugged hills of Loch Lomond's northern end. Wild goats are roaming these lovely forests of birch -, oak - and hazel trees and ruins of old settlements point to a lively history of the area. There are grand views, particularly when Loch Lomond appears like a discovery. Once at the shore of the loch we signal the ferryman who is to rescue us back to civilization. (4 hrs walk, undulating)
You benefit from a drive along the complete length of Loch Lomond's western shore and you have the opportunity to enjoy a pint or a wee dram in one of Scotland's oldest and most popular pubs, the Drovers' Inn. Here the sight of a Highlander dressed in a kilt is guaranteed!
A great place to celebrate the end of your holiday!
Day 8
Departure and transfer to Glasgow Airport/ Train Station
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