DISCOVER THE LOCHS OF THE TROSSACHS

Loch Lomond is the largest expanse of fresh water in the UK and has the most varied fish stock in the National Park, with an excellent reputation for coarse fishing.

If you’d rather admire a fabulous selection of sea life, check out the Loch Lomond SEA LIFE Centre. Attractions include the Bay of Rays, where you’ll meet the only Cownose rays in Scotland and the Otter Aquarium. You’ll see small, amiable-looking native shark species but the star of the shark show is the magnificent Black Tip Reef Shark, more commonly found around the coral reefs of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. SEA LIFE is coordinating the European Black Tip Reef Shark breeding programme. Don’t miss Feeding Time in the Ocean Tunnel, too.

For an immersive land-based experience, visit the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, ideally located in lochside woodland. Birds in the centre include kestrels, falcons, hawks, owls and eagles and you can learn about nature, conservation and native wildlife by following the Discovery Trail. Don’t miss the Flying Shows, scheduled to take place two or three times a day, and you can book ahead for a Bird of Prey Experience – the chance to get really close to one of these incredible creatures.

A cruise on Loch Lomond gives you the opportunity to admire the magnificent Ben Lomond and the Arrochar Alps from a different viewpoint; it’s also a handy mode of transport when you want to explore the surrounding area. Catch a cruise from Balloch on the southern shore or choose one of the many starting points from the western shore, including Luss – a picturesque village that’s worth a visit in its own right. Set routes - including the hour-long Heritage Walk - offer different perspectives, or simply wander the pretty streets, head to the beach for a picnic, or take a boat to one of Loch Lomond’s small islands. From Balmaha on the western shore you can climb Conic Hill -uniquely placed between the Highlands and Lowlands – which offers glorious views over Loch Lomond. Balmaha is also where you’ll gain access to the tiny island of Inchcailloch.

There are excellent picnic spots on the western shores at Duck Bay, Firkin Point and Inveruglas whilst on the eastern shore you’ll find picture-perfect Milarrochy Bay.