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Gateway to the Scottish Highlands, Loch Lomond is the largest lake in Great Britain. It stretches from the bustling town of Balloch to Ardlui, a tiny hamlet 39 km (24 miles) to the north.

At its southern end, islands litter the water and lowland meadows edge the shores. As you head north, the lake narrows considerably, eventually entering a deep ravine gouged out by glaciers and closely flanked by steep-sided mountains.

Numerous scenic viewpoints offer dramatic panoramas, and forest trails and mountain paths provide excellent walking and mountain biking routes. Cruises, kayaking, wind surfing and canoeing get you out onto the water and onto the quiet islands.

The lake and the surrounding mountains, wooded glens and quiet lochs of an area known as The Trossachs are protected by the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, which is easily accessible from Glasgow. The main road connecting the city to the west coast winds along the lake's western shore and there are a number of small and attractive villages overlooking the water.

Luss is one of the prettiest of these, its main street lined with attractive cottages, teahouses, cafés and art or souvenir shops. The Clan Museum is set in a 17th-century croft house on the lakeshore and tells the story of the local Highland clans throughout history.

Farther on is the quiet village of Tarbet, which is surrounded by mountain scenery on all sides and makes an excellent base for hiking, mountain biking or leisurely walking. If you wish to get out into the wilds of the park, to the west of Tarbet a group of mountains known as the Arrochar Alps offers hiking for all skill levels, along with magnificent scenery.

Much of the eastern shore of the lake is inaccessible by road, making it a very tranquil area to explore. It’s connected to the villages on the western shore by seasonal ferries, although you can also get there by tackling the long-distance West Highland Way walking path.

The trail traces the eastern shore of the lake and is ideal for a less strenuous hike. Winding through oak woods and moorland, it passes waterfalls with views of the lake en route. Also on the eastern shore is the vast Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, where you can take gentle walks and scenic drives.