Water Activities and Attractions
Enjoy Loch Lomond out on the water
Water Activities on Loch Lomond
Explore Loch Lomond on the water
There’s no better way to explore Loch Lomond than on the loch itself. Whether you choose to sail, paddle or ski, there’s a wealth of Loch Lomond water activities to choose from. Below, we’ve picked out some of the best water activity centres and attractions near Ballat Smithy Cottage. With something for all levels and abilities, from family boat trips to paddleboarding and canoeing. So you can make the most of your visit by getting out on the water during your stay.
Please note: Many of these activities are closed over the winter months, so be sure to check the operating dates. Activities may require pre-booking.
Sweeney’s Cruise Co
Distance from the cottage: 12 miles
Set sail with Sweeney’s Cruise Co. for boat trips on the loch, departing from nearby Balloch. See the spectacular views and hear the fascinating stories of this magical Scottish loch. This is a great adventure for all the family and a must when visiting Loch Lomond.
Daily sightseeing cruises take in views of the magnificent Ben Lomond and pass several castles and landmarks along the shoreline. Featuring onboard commentary by Scottish archaeologist and historian, Neil Oliver.
Loch Lomond Waterski Club
Distance from the cottage: 12 miles
Loch Lomond Waterski Club provides waterski lessons to club members and also non-members, with sessions for beginners and experienced water-skiers. Located in the town of Balloch, on the pier. Services include tuition, coaching and equipment hire.
This surface water sport is a fun and challenging activity, for those looking to try out a new sport or improve their skills. On skis, the water skier is pulled behind a boat, skimming the water at speed. It requires good strength and balance. Loch Lomond is the perfect location for water skiing, due to its vast surface area.
Maid of the Loch
Distance from the cottage: 12 miles
Maid of the Loch was the last paddle steamer built in the United Kingdom. She sailed on Loch Lomond for 29 years and is currently being restored at Balloch Pier. Although not yet able to set sail, you can still visit the historic ship and steam slip way for a great day out!
Join a guided tour or use the self-guide information to discover more about this fascinating vessel. Enjoy spectacular views of Loch Lomond and explore recently refurbished areas, such as the Queens Lounge on the Promenade Deck. And on special ‘in steam’ days, you can also watch the engine turn the paddle wheels! There is even a café on board, serving hot and cold drinks and delicious cakes and bakes.
Loch Lomond Leisure
Distance from the cottage: 20 miles
Loch Lomond Leisure is based in Luss, and runs a wide range of boat tour and activity packages for groups large and small.
Offering boat hire, boat tours, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, kayaking, canoeing and so much more. There are a range of speedboat tours, from 20-minute rides across the loch, to full day tours with island visits included. Loch Lomond Leisure also provide outdoor activities such as guided fishing, archery and walking trips. Group bookings can be tailor-made to your specific requirements. This is your one-stop-shop for Loch Lomond outdoor and water activities!
Visit the islands
As the largest lake by surface area in Great Britain, there is much to explore on Loch Lomond. Including 22 islands and 27 islets (smaller islands) to look out for, and an abundance of wildlife.
A speedboat trip from Portnellan Farm is a spectacular way to see the Loch!
You can visit Inchcailloch by waterbus. Local services run from Balmaha Boatyard in the summer. The island is part of the Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve, a wild and remote place to visit, with three spectacular walking routes to enjoy.
Inchmurrin, which is the largest island on Loch Lomond and home to the ancient remains of Lennox Castle, can be accessed by private boat. Or you can catch the ferry from near Balloch, and enjoy a meal or a drink at the island’s restaurant and bar.
Book NowLoch Ard Adventure Centre
Trossachs activities, 14 miles from the cottage
Loch Ard Adventure Centre opened in 2023, offering a great choice of activities on and off the water. With no powered craft allowed on the loch, Loch Ard is Loch Lomond’s quieter cousin. In many ways a more tranquil introduction to the grandeur of the area. From kayaking to paddle boarding to to axe throwing and archery, the Centre provides adventure all the way!
With so much choice, if you need any help planning your trip, don’t hesitate to get in touch before or during your stay with us.
Book NowReviews
‘Stayed here for 3 nights together with our 13 month old daughter. Lovely cottage. Very cosy but enough space. Had a warm welcome and received a welcome package. The cottage is a perfect place to stay for a few days to explore the region. Be sure that you exactly know where to find it, because not so easy to find in the dark.
Perfect parking in front of the cottage. Even if it lays just beside the road, you don’t have any inconvenience from the noise. Would definitely stay here again when back in the region!’
– Ballat Smithy Cottage Tripadvisor Review
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And See Ballat Smithy Cottage
Watch our video below and see our gorgeous cottage for yourself. Plus, get a taster of some of the wonderful attractions and activities nearby, including Loch Lomond. We are sure you will love all we have to offer so get booking today and enjoy a relaxing stay with us here at Ballat Smithy Cottage.
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