Sitting on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, right on the second stretch of the West Highland Way, Balmaha is a bustling but picturesque destination. It’s an ideal location for intrepid explorers and history enthusiasts alike.
Cruises and ferries are available for holidaymakers wanting to enjoy Loch Lomond and its neighbouring villages at a slow pace. For the more adventurous, canoes and rowing boats are available for hire.
The neighbouring island of Inchcailloch is a stone’s throw away in Loch Lomond itself, and a great spot to hike to the summit and capture unparalleled views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding hills.
The island forms part of Loch Lomond Nature Reserve. Wildlife lovers can spot an amazing variety of wildlife from Endrick Point from season to season.
Those who prefer to stay on dry land can enjoy the hikes along the West Highland Way running beside Balmaha. Head north to Strathcashel Point to marvel at the remains of a Crannog; an ancient dwelling some five thousand years old!
Balmaha Camping
It’s no surprise a location rich in natural beauty like Balmaha attracts visitors wanting to be at one with nature. If you’re planning a back-to-basics escape away from the distractions of modern life, there’s a vast supply of camping sites to choose from in this beautiful part of the world. Check out our favourite Loch Lomond campsites below!
Milarrochy Camping and Caravanning
Seeking serenity and adventure in one trip? Situated right on the banks of Loch Lomond, Milarrochy Camping and Caravanning club could be perfect for you. Their camp safari tents offer a stylish glamping option for those who don’t want to leave all their creature comforts behind.
Hikes of varying levels of difficulty can suit ramblers of any ability with the option to have bags delivered to your next stop point along the West Highland Way. Guided hikes and bike hires are available from the Loch Lomond Shores visitor centre, and watersports for activity lovers are plentiful.
Cashel Campsite
If you want to enjoy the wild beauty of Scottish landscapes, look no further than Cashel Campsite.
Just three miles away from Balmaha and nestled within Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, it’s the perfect location for those looking for a peaceful getaway. The wooded location offers a chance to disconnect as no internet access is available. It’s a great spot to hire a boat and explore the nearby islands.
You’re also just 4 miles away from Ben Lomond if you plan to venture up its 3,192ft peak.
Luss Caravan And Campsite
If you’re looking for a family-friendly site then head to the west of Loch Lomond to stay in the conservation village of Luss at Luss Caravan and Campsite. With village amenities on your doorstep, you can enjoy the many pubs and restaurants between sightseeing and adventuring.
Bike riding is a popular activity in this part of the lochs, so you can explore the national park on two wheels.
A short trip to Helensburgh will take you to the unique Hill House, known for its pioneering design.
Lomond Woods Holiday Park
Snuggled in the base of Loch Lomond is the award-winning Lomond Woods Holiday Park. Lomond Woods is a glamper’s dream, boasting deluxe hot tub lodges alongside regular lodges and RV pitches.
Open all year round, it’s a great Balmaha accommodation option for the more sophisticated camper. With a selection of camping pods, static caravans and luxury lodges, you won’t have to worry about the weather in your own micro home away from home.
From nature trails to castles, golfing to fishing, and canoeing to aerial adventures, it’s impossible to find time to be bored during a stay at Lomond Woods.
Trossachs Holiday Park
Further inland from Loch Lomond is another glamping hotspot at Trossachs Holiday Park.
Explore the stunning Great Trossachs Forest by bike or by foot knowing you can relax in the simplicity of a well-sheltered pitching spot, or whole holiday home at the end of the day. Laundry facilities and free wifi are an extra selling point for the less acclimatised camper.
There’s an on-site woodland walk and designated dog walking area for those who perhaps aren’t looking to commit to an excursion on the West Highland Way.
Check Online AvailabilityCobleland Campsite
With multi-level pitching options on some of the lushest green land around, Cobleland Campsite is a great choice for those looking to really get back to nature.
Set within the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and adjacent to the Loch Ard Forest, it’s a popular choice for aspiring fishers, spanning the green banks of the River Forth.
Cobleland is a peaceful family-friendly choice with tons of kids activities around such as Go Ape and children’s nature walks to keep your little ones entertained.
Sallochy Campsite
Small groups and families looking for a simple yet stunningly situated camping experience will love Sallochy Campsite. Comprising of tent pitches only, you can nestle under the oak trees in peace – it’s one of the wildest camping experiences you can have!
Sitting right on the banks of Loch Lomond with fire pits and wood available to purchase, all you need are the bare essentials and your loved ones for an unforgettable trip at this pet-friendly campsite.
There are basic toilet facilities but no showers, although you can take a dip in the lake or simply enjoy the views of Loch Lomond and the backdrop of the Arrochar Alps from the small campsite beach.
Drymen Camping
Based right on the West Highland Way and a popular national cycling route is Drymen Camping.
Though you’re a little further away from the Loch, you have easy access to everything as you’re just on the edge of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park’s Camping Management Zone, not far from Glasgow and just a 20-minute stroll from the Drymen Inn pub.
Local baggage transfer companies drop off and deliver to the site, and hot walk-in showers are available to ease sore muscles from a day of walking.
West Highland Way Campsite
Set up camp on the doorstep of the West Highland Way starting point at the aptly named West Highland Way Campsite in Milngavie.
Every caravan and camping pitch has its own patio or terrace area, so you can enjoy the view with your party. The hosts make your stay extra special with breakfast included in the price!
With free wifi and a spa bath on-site, it’s a great way to kick off your West Highland expedition.
Check Online AvailabilityLagganbeg Caravan Park
With hard standing pitches for campers and caravans and a separate grass area for tents and campers cabins for you to walk straight into, Lagganbeg Caravan Park caters for every camper.
This Balmaha accommodation is a little further south of Loch Lomond than Balmaha, just a short walk from the south shores where you can revel in some of the most spectacular views of the Loch.
Organised groups can be catered for at Lagganbeg if you’re looking for a club camping spot.
Balmaha B&B
Looking for something more intimate than a hotel stay, but cosier than a camping trip? Balmaha Loch Lomond boasts plenty of B&Bs ready to give you service with a smile. Peruse our favourite Balmaha B&Bs so you can start planning your West Highland adventure today!
Arrochoile B&B
A highly reputable Balmaha accommodation, the staff at Arrochoile B&B are used to catering for the West Highland Way’s weary walkers and do their utmost to make sure your experience runs smoothly.
A continental breakfast is served daily and wifi and toiletries are complimentary.
There’s a drying area to hang your outerwear if you’re caught in a shower and breakfasts that can be made gluten-free or vegan on request so no guest has to compromise. They even offer a packed lunch service, because after all, the energy needed for those Scottish hikes can’t be underestimated!
Check Online AvailabilityBirchwood Guest Lodge
The innovatively designed Birchwood Guest Lodge offers self-catering rooms as an alternative Balmaha accommodation option, with seating areas for games and socialising, heated rails to dry off your soggy clothes, and a ventilation system that keeps the midges and odours out and brings the clean air in.
The quirky rooms make a statement with exposed stone walls and striking photographic murals. It’s a fun, vibrant place to rest your head and recharge. Most rooms are twin rooms so the Lodge is welcoming to groups of friends. Equally, the flexible design enables couples to put two beds together.
Check Online AvailabilityGlenlaird B&B
The Glenlaird B&B is a sight to see in itself. Located just on the edge of Drymen, perfect for the West Highland Way, this strikingly designed B&B suspends over its own pond. Guests can enjoy breakfast on the outdoor dining area when the weather permits, or relax by the fireplace in the cosy guest lounge on chillier days.
With just two double beds, en suite bedrooms, and twin bed option for family accommodation, a stay here will feel like your very own holiday home.
Kip in the Kirk
Converted from the old church hall, this B&B in the centre of Drymen village offers a variety of rooms. There’s a family room with en suite, en suite twin, and 8 person bunk room with shared facilities. Group bookings of up to twenty people are also welcome, so gather your adventure-seeking friends and book your stay today for a special occasion, or expedition on the West Highland Way.
Just a seven-minute drive away from Balmaha, Drymen is well connected to all Loch Lomond and the West Highland Way has to offer.
Ashbank Bed & Breakfast
Another offering from the beautiful village of Drymen is the Ashbank B&B. With access separate from the main house, guests have privacy and security. All rooms are en suite and overlook the Campsie hills.
Their Struan room also has a wet room for wheelchair access, making travellers of all abilities welcome.
If you’re not looking for a high difficulty walk, there’s plenty of other things to do in the area. There’s an array of golf courses for those who like their sport at a slower pace. Or you can forget the sports entirely and visit local landmarks like the Glengoyne distillery!
Check Online AvailabilityBraeside Bed & Breakfast
Braeside Bed & Breakfast offers a family room with its own kitchen, a generous double room overlooking the square, a compact garden room with its own private deck and twin rooms with french doors overlooking the garden.
The top twin rooms also have baths – a welcome sight after a day on foot or on the waters of Loch Lomond.
The hosts are fountains of local knowledge and will be happy to advise you on your trip. They’re more than happy to make recommendations about where to eat in the village of Drymen!
Check Online AvailabilityHotels Near Balmaha
Balmaha has a great repertoire of luxury hotels. Visitors come here to enjoy the stunning scenery of Scotland’s famous Loch Lomond and immerse themselves in the activities the national park has to offer.
Here’s our list of the best Balmaha hotels for those who want a no expense spared holiday.
Oak Tree Inn
Want to base your Scottish adventure right at the heart of Loch Lomond’s most beautiful village? The Oak Tree Inn Balmaha could be the perfect choice of Balmaha accommodation if you’re looking for en suite rooms in an immaculate cottage-chic setting.
This prestigious, award-winning hotel consists of rooms above the Inn and separate cottages a short walk away. If you appreciate the finer things in life after a day of breathing in that fresh Scottish air, the welcoming staff will make you feel at ease for the duration of your stay.
Whichever dining area you chose there are plenty of options including gluten-free and vegan dining. You can even taste Loch Lomond’s own ice cream and coffee on the Oak Tree Inn site.
Check Online AvailabilityBuchanan Arms Hotel & Spa
With bold, boutique-style rooms and impressive pool and spa facilities, why not indulge in a little Loch Lomond luxury at the Buchanan Arms Hotel? From family rooms to a bridal suite, you might even choose the Buchanan Arms for your special occasion.
Every kind of traveller is catered to, whether you’re hoping for a romantic trip away, a family adventure, or a group escape. The hotel’s Drymen location is connected to links to the national park and Glasgow city itself.
Check Online AvailabilityArdoch Cottage
Ardoch Cottage is a lovingly restored family passion project in the rolling hills of the Trossachs. With just three en suite rooms available, booking yourself an exclusive getaway where you’ll also benefit from your own private lounge area with a log burner and fridge.
If it weren’t for the tempting scenery around you waiting to be explored, it’d be hard to leave the true Scottish hospitality of the hosts of this intimate 220-year-old cottage.
Check Online AvailabilityLoch Lomond Waterfront
Are you looking to push the boat out for a place right on the shore? Balmaha Loch Lomond is home to the Loch Lomond Waterfront lodges; luxury 5-star lodges, complete with their own hot tubs and steam cabins. Barbecue facilities are available to hire and with two of the lodges being interconnected to facilitate larger groups, this could be a worthy investment for a memorable stay.
As a resident of these Balmaha Lodges, you’ll even have access to a private beach during your stay – a great taking off point for a plethora of water sports.
The Loch Lomond Waterfront lodges are self-catering so you don’t need to plan your daily adventures around serving times. Make the most of their fully equipped kitchens, or head to the local village of Balmaha and enjoy the local restaurants.
Check Online AvailabilityWinnock Hotel
You usually have to surpass the luxury of a hotel when you want to take your furry friends on holiday with you. But you no longer have to sacrifice creature comforts for, well, your creatures as the Winnock Hotel in Drymen is now pet friendly!
The Winnock has come a long way since its 18th-century roots as a coaching inn, but its loving restoration honours its roots. Stay in one of their heritage rooms in the original part of the building if you want a little taste of history.
With log fires and cosy communal lounges and its own restaurant, you can revel in authentic Scottish hospitality while you plan your excursions.
Check Online AvailabilityTullie Inn
The owners of the Tullie Inn in Balloch know the devil is in the details when it comes to giving guests a cut above the rest experience. The recently refurbished hotel on the south shore of Loch Lomond comprises 13 rooms all equipped with king-sized beds and luxury toiletries, and your tea and coffee tray wouldn’t be complete without some traditional Scottish biscuits to welcome you.
Located next to Balloch train station, this is a great option for those coming to explore Loch Lomond by public transport.
Breakfast is included in the room rates, and the restaurant also serves a full food menu and afternoon tea if you need a midday rest and recharge between one adventure and the next.
Check Online AvailabilityClachan Inn
At the heart of Drymen’s village square, you’ll find the Clachan Inn – Scotland’s oldest licensed pub. The Inn has several twin rooms available that are designed with walkers in mind.
Clean and comfortable, all rooms have their own en suite power shower so you can wash the day away and invigorate before your next stretch – it’s a popular first stop along the West Highland Way.
The Clachan Inn is a small family run business and in honour of the Inn’s history, they’re sure to give you a West Highland welcome and will help you locate all you need for your expedition.
Check Online AvailabilityRoss Priory
You’ll struggle to find a more striking location on the banks of Loch Lomond than Ross Priory. Owned by the University of Strathclyde and able to facilitate a whole host of events from weddings to conferences, guests can enjoy unrivalled views of Ben Lomond and the surrounding hills.
Built in 1693, you’ll want to get plenty of holiday snaps of the striking gothic architecture and beautiful gardens. It’s no surprise this is a popular choice of wedding venue with its romantic dreamlike backdrop of the loch against the imposing design of the Priory.
The en suite rooms in this secluded Balmaha accommodation come with breakfast included.
Balmaha Cottages
If nothing charms you more than the idea of a country cottage escape, look no further than our selection of the best cottages in Balmaha.
Ivy Cottage Auchendennan
There’s more than meets the eye to the unassuming, single-storey Ivy Cottage holiday home on the western shore of Loch Lomond.
Not only do you have those signature cottage features of a wood-burning stove and mod cons that make you feel right at home, but you can also enjoy the luxury of an in-house sauna and hot tub on the sun deck – the perfect way to wind down after your days exploring!
Check Online AvailabilityCraigton Cottages
For a country-chic getaway in the privacy of a detached cottage, Craigton Cottage’s Cruagh Dubh is the perfect purpose-built cottage for a large family or group.
Boasting four double bedrooms and four bathrooms, Cruagh Dubh can also be booked with Quarry Cottage and Pipers cottage to accommodate parties of up to 18.
As well as basic amenities, it’s equipped with barbecue facilities, a wood-burning stove and a highchair and stair gate, so young families can travel without having to bring everything but the kitchen sink to keep their little ones safe.
Inchmurrin Island Apartment
Ever felt like escaping to an island with your nearest and dearest? At Inchmurrin Island Apartment you can do just that.
Grab your three favourite people and even bring your dog along on the short ferry ride to this Balmaha accommodation at the heart of Loch Lomond itself.
With your own outdoor seating and BBQ area leading to the beach, you can enjoy some al fresco dining after a day on the water. A washing machine is included so there’s no worry of running out of clean clothes no matter how many activities you partake in.
Kilmaronock Cottage
Hidden away in the unspoilt west highland countryside and accessible only by a rough track you’ll find your perfect hideaway in Kilmaronock Cottage.
A perfect spot all year round, the cosy interior is decorated at Christmas for a postcard-perfect holiday getaway.
The cottage is toddler friendly and they’ve really thought of everything the modern family will need. From a coffee machine to a Google smart speaker and a selection of Nintendo Wii games, you’ll easily keep your party of up to 6 entertained on those days when the Scottish weather isn’t so adventure friendly.
Montrose House Loch Lomond
Situated in a former period mansion, Montrose House Loch Lomond provides a no-frills design, ideal for those who plan to be adventuring all day but want to rest their head near Loch Lomond.
The ground floor apartment includes a conservatory with stunning views of the loch – perfect for breakfast at dawn or a romantic sunset drink.
Like all Balmaha accommodation, a stay here puts you in prime position for the West Highland Way, a 7-mile hike from Ben Lomond, and a short trip away from many local picturesque villages, water sports, castles and more.
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