The Scottish Highlands is one of the most unique places on planet Earth, with Loch Lomond sitting right in the border of it. And those in Glasgow can easily reach Balloch via direct train.
Sitting right at the bottom of Loch Lomond, Balloch is an excellent base for exploring the south of the loch, as well as the village itself. While there, visitors can explore wee shops, cafes, bars and restaurants, as well as Balloch Country Park – home to Balloch Castle with stunning vistas.
What is more, Balloch is historically important for being the “gateway” for boats entering Loch Lomond in the 1800s.
Balloch Castle Country Park
Balloch Castle Country Park boasts a lovely walk by the Loch, as well as Balloch Castle. There is an old castle by the shore, which was built in 1238, owned by one of the most influential families in Scotland at the time, the Earls of Lennox. Now, not much remains of the site, only a moat and the knoll. The modern castle on the hill was built in 1808, but is currently closed to visitors.
We most enjoyed exploring the rest of the park, walking along the shores of Loch Lomond – the path goes on for quite a while, and you can easily make a day out of it.
Hikes near Balloch
The waterbus from Balloch is possibly the most entertaining way to travel around, however, it is £19 per person. The waterbus offers a 90-minute round-trip to Balmaha or Luss a few times a day, giving visitors the chance to see Loch Lomond up close.
The cheapest way to travel around is via traditional buses, with multiple services throughout the day.
Conic Hill in Balmaha is a particularly pleasant hike, taking around two hours to complete. It is not as hard as Ben Lomond’s steeper climb and still offers a great viewpoint. The trail starts at Balmaha and is only 3.9km, taking around two hours to complete, including plenty of time spent taking in the views. However, the loop trek takes hikers back down onto a steep path, so if you’re just wanting an easy day, go back down the same way you came up.
Devil’s Pulpit, the spot featured in the famous TV series ‘Outlander’ that is also currently up for sale, is also nearby, boasting an otherworldly valley with red water and waterfalls. However, the Balmaha bus stops about a 20-minute walk from where the trail starts, but once you’re there, it’s a short walk down.
Getting to Balloch from Glasgow via train
Getting to Balloch from Glasgow is easy, with a direct train available from Glasgow Queen Street Lower Level, taking just 51 minutes.
