A new Waterbus route on Loch Lomond will open up new possibilities for visitors wanting to join up island visits and walking and cycling trips.
Loch Lomond
The new route runs between Loch Lomond Shores in Balloch to Inchmurrin and then on to Inchcailloch, giving people the opportunity to explore two of Loch Lomond’s most popular islands. The Inchmurrin service includes a morning tea/coffee and scone, or soup and a sandwich at lunchtime, depending on what time you sail. This service, which began on 6 July, is run by Clyde Cruises, who join Cruise Loch Lomond, Sweeney’s Cruises and SS Sir Walter Scott in offering Waterbus services across the National Park.
Situated only 50 minutes by train from Glasgow, Balloch is the southern gateway to the National Park and the Waterbus not only provides an excellent way to see Loch Lomond, it is an excellent choice for those who are looking to visit the surrounding area. You can also travel from Glasgow directly to Arrochar/Tarbet train station and after a short 10 minute walk to Tarbet pier, you will be able to explore the most northern parts of Loch Lomond by Waterbus. Both options are an excellent choice for walkers and cyclists.
The service between Ardlui and Ardleish provides access to points along the West Highland Way making it a great option for those wishing to walk or cycle part of the long distance route. In addition, there’s increased frequency of the service between Luss and Balmaha providing more opportunities to explore Conic Hill and the Millennium Forest Walk, which are popular trails.
For those wanting to explore beyond Loch Lomond you can take the Waterbus to Inversnaid and from there walk or cycle along the Great Trossachs Path to Stronachlachar. From there you can embark on a sail on beautiful Loch Katrine – made famous by Sir Walter Scott’s poem The Lady of the Lake – or walk or cycle, on relatively flat terrain, along the north side of Loch Katrine.
Mairi Bell, head of tourism for Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park said: “We are thrilled to be opening this new Waterbus route today, giving people even more options for exploring the Loch and creating great days out in the National Park. This route from Balloch is just a few minutes’ walk from the train and makes it easier than ever for visitors to leave their car at home and visit Loch Lomond. We’ve seen a rise in people wanting to take in the spectacular scenery of the National Park by foot, by bike, by boat, or by a combination of the three. The new route will help visitors to join up their journeys and experience a wide range of activities that allow them to make the most of their visit.”