Walking Holidays
Explore Loch Lomond and the Trossachs on foot
Walking Loch Lomond
And the Trossachs
There are a wide variety of walks near Ballat Smithy Cottage. Some beside lochs, some into the mountains, some through ancient woodlands, but they will all take your breath away. Walking Loch Lomond and the Trossachs will be a great adventure on your own or with family and friends. We are surrounded by paths, trails, and hills to enjoy. From Ben An to Conic Hill and the mighty Ben Lomond to the tiny Dumpling. The level of walk and choice of distance are yours. And what a lot of choice you have!
Walks for All
The Best Way to Explore
There are walks for all abilities near Ballat Smithy Cottage. Enjoy scenic walks by rivers and lochs, in forests and woods, and high into the hills in the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Wherever you roam the spectacular scenery and your beautiful surroundings will inspire you.
If you are looking for memorable walks, then the best local walks are to be found in the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. If walking the hills is your plan then Walk Highlands is a great resource.
However, venturing out into the hills can be a daunting prospect for newcomers. So why not use the services of an experienced guide? If you use Loch Lomond Guides and Scotland’s Wild then you will have access to a variety of options.
Climbing Ben Lomond
Ben Lomond offers breathtaking views of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. So going on a Ben Lomond hike is a popular excursion, and tens of thousands of people do this every year.
And even on days when the weather isn’t perfect, the view from the top is spellbinding. Ben Lomond is a popular walk and can get busy during peak times in the summer. So if you are looking for solitude, aim for climbing in the quieter months of spring or autumn, or choose one of the less frequented but equally enjoyable hills nearby.
Book NowMillennium Forest Trail
Superb views of Loch Lomond
Starting at Balmaha, this trail offers superb views of Loch Lomond. It also takes you through some of the 3,000 acres of woodland around the loch, giving you the chance to spot some Scottish wildlife. For example, here you might see animals like the red squirrel, pine martin or an osprey. If you are looking for peace and quiet, then this forest can offer you just that.
Moreover, this trail follows part of the West Highland Way. So it takes you along the wooded promontory, Craigie’s Fort. Keep an eye out in the loch and see if you can spot Inchcailloch island. To sum up – this is a walk which has something for everyone!
Glengoyne
Not too far from the Glengoyne Distillery is a lovely walk at any time of year. This trek is around 10km and heads towards a hill called Dumgoyne. There’s a circular path, suitable for those with limited mobility, and a more advanced path (but still fine for most people with a reasonable level of fitness.)
This is a great walk to see some of the hilly Scottish countryside of the area, and should only take 3-4 hours in total so perfect for a morning or afternoon stroll. There are some fields to go through, so wear wellies if it has been raining!
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Conic Hill
Great for families
Rising behind Balmaha, Conic Hill is one of the area’s most popular walks. It’s great for families because although it’s steep in places, it is accessible. Those with no mobility issues should be able to climb it with ease. If you are eager to get out and enjoy Scotland, then this is a great place to start.
And the climb is worth it, because you get stunning views of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs from the top. For instance, even on darker Scottish days, you still get a great view of Loch Lomond.
Although dogs are welcome on this walk, there are often sheep around the hill. So please do keep your best buddy on a lead.
Killearn to Strathblane pipe track
This walk (known locally as ‘The Water Track’) follows part of the 26 mile long pipe track which was constructed in the 1800s in order to bring water from Loch Katrine to Glasgow. It is a linear path with Killearn at one end and Strathblane at the other. Walk both ways, with lunch in between, or walk one way and catch the bus back. Either choice promises you a chance to enjoy far reaching views of the Campsie Fells and the mountains of the Trossachs.
And it will take you into some stunning Scottish scenery. The height of summer can offer lovely clear blue skies. Likewise winter can offer the same – but you may need to wear more layers! But ultimately, whatever the time of year this is a beautiful walk. If you are looking for a nice day out, then this offers a great way to spend time during your holiday at Ballat Smithy Cottage.
Book NowWalking the hills
Magnificent Views
If you plan on hillwalking near Loch Lomond, then there are plenty of options. For example, Conic Hill is a popular walk near Balmaha. The hill marks the northernmost edge of Scotland’s lowlands. So this means that everything you see to the north is the Scottish Highlands.
And once again, the views from the top can be magnificent. On a really good day you can see for miles. In fact, you don’t even have to go all the way to the top for cracking views! The walk up to the top offers just as stunning views as those from the summit.
So if you are looking for a walking holiday in Scotland, then come to Loch Lomond and stay with us at Ballat Smithy Cottage. Above all, walking Loch Lomond and the surrounding areas will be sure to make your break a special one.
Book NowReviews
‘We spent 1 week in this beautiful cottage and straight away it felt like a home from home. Anne the owner is very friendly and welcoming. The cottage is really pretty and very comfortable (the beds in particular!) it has everything you need including decent wifi and you even get a welcome pack with a few food goodies.
‘We spent a week visiting the area and it’s a perfect base as you are only 20 minutes from places such as Stirling, Balloch etc. We did a day trip to Edinburgh and it only took 1h30 to get there from the cottage. There are local shops available only 5 minutes drive away which is very handy as well as lovely pubs such as the oldest one in Scotland in nearby Drymen.
We highly recommend this cottage in this really beautiful part of Scotland’
– 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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