Loch Katrine
Please note that the North Shore Road at Loch Katrine can be affected by landslips and access continues to be limited during periods of heavy rainfall when a yellow weather warning is in place. Check the Scottish Water Loch Katrine page for information before your visit.
Loch Katrine was the inspiration for the famous 19th century poem, The Lady of the Lake, by Sir Walter Scott, and still beguiles visitors some two centuries later. It was here, too, on this eight-mile long loch at the heart of the National Park, that Queen Victoria enjoyed a boat trip in 1869.
The views, whether you sail, cycle or simply walk the shoreline are superb, with the many hills and mountains of the Trossachs providing a beautiful backdrop.
For walkers keen to gain height, Ben A’an with a summit of 454m is a great family walk, while Ben Venue, meaning “the miniature mountain”, is a more challenging outing to a top of 729m.
Did you know, too, that Loch Katrine has been serving as the main fresh water supply for the Glasgow for more than 150 years?
Make a stay of it
Whether you’re looking for the comfort of a campsite or the solitude of ‘wild camping’, the National Park offers plenty of places to immerse yourself in some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland.
If you are planning to ‘wild camp’, be aware that seasonal byelaws came into effect on 1st March 2017 which affect how you can camp in some areas between March and September. During this time, you need a permit to camp or (in some locations) to stay overnight in your motorhome in these Camping Management Zones.
Explore our map to find your perfect spot
Today, visitors can follow in her footsteps on the steamship Sir Water Scott, which was launched in 1899 and still ferries passengers up and down Loch Katrine, or on board the modern cruiser, poignantly named The Lady of the Lake.
Many people choose to combine a sailing from Trossachs Pier, at the eastern point of the loch, to Stronachlachar on the north-west shore and then cycle back along the northern shore. This road is a private single track and relatively traffic free, however be prepared for the occasional vehicle, other cyclists and walkers. You will ride through Glengyle at the northern end of the loch, which was the birthplace of Scottish outlaw-turned-hero, Rob Roy MacGregor. You can hire bikes at the pier or bring your own.
Loch Katrine (photo credit: John McSporran)