Loch Lomond: Day Trips and Tours from Glasgow

Covering an area of over 70 square kilometers, Loch Lomond is one of the largest and most spectacular waterways in the United Kingdom. Surrounded by craggy hills and smatterings of vibrant heather, the loch attracts visitors to roam its shores or sail along its glistening surface.

Day trips to Loch Lomond from Glasgow are the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and enable you to explore Scotland’s famous rugged landscapes.

Here's all you need to know about Loch Lomond, one of the most exciting day trips from Glasgow.

How to get to Loch Lomond from Glasgow?

Loch Lomond is situated between Scotland’s lowlands and highlands. It is just over 40 kilometers north of Glasgow.

From Glasgow to Loch Lomond by car

The journey to Loch Lomond varies depending on which part of the stretch of water you wish to see. It takes just over 30 minutes to reach the base of the lake, however, most visitors continue to Luss on the west banks, which takes an additional 15 minutes. Either way, you’ll follow the A82 all the way from Glasgow, making the route simple, as well as scenic.

From Glasgow to Loch Lomond by bus

Those without access to a car can make the jaunt to Loch Lomond by taking a direct bus from Glasgow’s Buchanan Bus Station to Luss. This takes approximately an hour and the service runs regularly throughout the day. Several bus routes connect the two destinations including Lines 926 and 976.

Guided tour to Loch Lomond from Glasgow

Alternatively, choose a guided excursion to Loch Lomond and allow someone else to take care of the transportation details for you. These tours typically last between 8 and 10 hours, and begin near Buchanan Bus Station between 8 AM and 9:30 AM. When you arrive at your meeting point, your guide will usually be wearing or holding an item that makes them easily recognizable. Once your adventure is over, you’ll be dropped back to the same destination, where you can continue sightseeing in Glasgow.

What is the typical itinerary?

Each Loch Lomond day trip features its own unique itinerary. However, they all share some similarities. You’ll typically meet your guide in the center of the city, where you’ll board your vehicle and set off toward Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, less than an hour away.

Once you arrive in the area, you may have free time to take in the loch in your own way, whether that’s by cruising along its vivid waters on a boat or admiring its surroundings from land. Alternatively, you may participate in a guided walk, where your lively guide will show you the highlights of the region and provide you with fascinating tidbits of information.

You’ll typically hop between several destinations surrounding the body of water throughout the day, which vary according to your interests, from distilleries to enchanting castles, and you may even see a diverse range of wildlife, such as red squirrels, deer, and Highland cows.

During your Loch Lomond day tour, you’ll stop for a local lunch at a traditional pub or equivalent, where you can order a Scottish classic, such as haggis or bubble and squeak. When it’s time to return to Glasgow, you’ll simply hop back onto your vehicle and relax as you wind your way through the Scottish countryside.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Loch Lomond?

There are several different day tours to Loch Lomond to choose from, depending on your personal interests and travel style.

Guided tours to Loch Lomond from Glasgow

This Loch Lomond day trip begins with a picturesque drive through the Scottish countryside. Upon arrival at the loch, you’ll have the opportunity to board a boat and embark on a relaxing cruise along the sparkling body of water, gaining a unique view of its dramatic surroundings.

Alternatively, sit on the lakeshore and soak in the tranquility or take an invigorating stroll around its pine-studded banks. From there, you’ll move on to the traditional village of Aberfoyle before continuing on to explore the rest of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, filled with dense forests, and lofty mountains. End your day tour wandering the grounds of the 14th-century Stirling Castle,  where Mary Queen of Scots was crowned in the 16th century.

Day trip to Loch Lomond plus whisky tasting from Glasgow

The first stop on this Loch Lomond day trip is a renowned distillery that specializes in single malt whiskies. Here, you’ll learn the ins and outs of producing the rich flavors of the beverage, from barley to bottle.

Moving on, you’ll visit a charming countryside pub in the village of Balloch overlooking Loch Lomond where you can participate in a refreshing walk, taking in the sheer magnitude and natural beauty of the waterway. Continue on to a second distillery for a tasting session where you’ll learn how to distinguish the notes in the delicate tipple before returning to Glasgow.

Walking day tour to Loch Lomond from Glasgow

Those who prefer to truly immerse themselves in nature can take part in this walking tour in Loch Lomond. You’ll pass by a variety of spectacular landmarks, including the 18th-century Georgian Dumbarton Castle and the Clyde Estuary on your way to the national park where you’ll stroll around the lakeshore marveling at verdant forests, and tumbling falls while listening as your enthusiastic guide educates you on Scottish history.

Meet the country’s favorite furry being — the Highland cow — as you participate in a second walk through the wilderness of the Trossachs before ending your day in the quaint village of Luss.

How much does a day trip to Loch Lomond from Glasgow cost?

Day trips to Loch Lomond that include Stirling Castle costs approximately £50 per adult and operate in groups limited to 32 guests. Children aged 4 and over are welcome to participate, and those under 17 benefit from a small discount of £2 each. Seniors aged 65 and over also qualify for this slight reduction. While transportation is provided for you, all attractions and activities, such as cruises, are at your own expense.

Walking day tours to Loch Lomond operate in small groups limited to eight participants and cost £70 per adult. Children between the ages of 12 and 15 benefit from a slight discount of around £3 each.

Excursions that revolve around whisky tasting cost between £90 and £100 per adult, while children between the ages of 5, and 15 cost £60 each. Entry to both distilleries is included in the price while you’re responsible for lunch and any other attraction fees.

What will you see and do?

Loch Lomond translates to “Lake of the Elms” in Gaelic and is a freshwater lake situated within the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park — a nature reserve that was established in 2002. It is the largest lake in Great Britain by surface area and is second to Loch Ness in terms of volume. Loch Lomond was formed during the end of the last ice age, around 10,000 years ago, by glacial movement, and today, it is more than 30 kilometers long by almost 10 kilometers wide.

The body of water is so vast that it contains 22 islands and 27 islets, the majority of which are privately owned. These include Inchmurrin, which features 14th-century castle ruins, and Inchcailloch, known for its array of wildlife, and bird species. While Loch Ness is famed to be the home of a mysterious monster, there have also been several sightings of a crocodile-like beast in Loch Lomond.

One of the most visited spots surrounding the loch is Luss, which featured in the Scottish television series, “Take the High Road” and was originally settled approximately 1,500 years ago.

When is the best time to visit Loch Lomond?

The best time to visit Loch Lomond are spring and summer, when the weather is pleasant and temperatures are pleasant. The long daylight hours allow you to maximize your time exploring the stunning scenery and enjoying the area's natural beauty.

Are there any tours to Loch Lomond from other cities in Scotland?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Loch Lomond:

• Day Trips to Loch Lomond from Edinburgh
• Day Trips to Loch Lomond from Stirling

Travel tips

• If you're planning to visit Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, check the weather forecast in advance, especially if you're camping. Be prepared for rain and pack appropriate gear.
• Don't miss the opportunity to try some traditional Scottish dishes while you're in Glasgow, such as haggis or neeps and tatties.
• Take the time to visit the charming villages surrounding Loch Lomond, including Balloch, Luss, and Killin.
• Respect the natural environment and follow any guidelines or rules in place to preserve the beauty of the area.
• Pack essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes for your outdoor adventures.