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Balloch is a charming village located on the south-western shore of the legendary Loch Lomond. It is often referred to as the ‘Gateway’ to the picturesque Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Geographically, it is one of the most important settlements in the region. Balloch is located right at the foot of the lake where its waters begin a short journey into the River Leven which then flows into the River Clyde at Dumbarton.
Past and present
The name Balloch itself comes from the Gaelic word ‘bal’ and literally translates as ‘village on the lake’. However, according to another version it comes from the word ‘bealach’ meaning ‘mountain pass’ and refers to the River Leven which served as a natural passage for ships connecting Loch Lomond with the sea. Balloch became a key location in the 1800’s when numerous steamboats were actively operating on the lake. The railway arrived in 1850 and the station was built directly at the newly constructed Balloch pier.
The perfect place to start
Balloch is easily accessible thanks to excellent rail and road links to Glasgow and central Scotland. This makes it the perfect place for a day trip or a longer break as well as the best starting point for exploring the wild expanses of the Highlands. Although the town merges with neighbouring towns to the south, a glance to the north reveals majestic landscapes and the popular Ben Lomond peak can be seen directly from Balloch Pier. Balloch’s main street provides visitors with everything they need – shops, pharmacies, hotels and a variety of cosy cafés, bars and restaurants.
A walk to the heart of Loch Lomond
A leisurely walk begins from Balloch railway station, quickly taking you away from the hustle and bustle of the village and into the embrace of wild nature. The path covered with soft grass winds through a silent forest where centuries-old trees stand like an impenetrable wall. There is nothing here to disturb the peace – no hustle and bustle and no buildings – just the rustling of leaves and the singing of birds accompanying the traveller. With each step the world around becomes more and more secluded until the blue expanse of Loch Lomond begins to shimmer in the distance, beckoning you to its serene shores.
Loch Lomond Shores: Leisure and shopping
Among the many tourist attractions that successfully capitalise on the fame of Loch Lomond, Loch Lomond Shores stands out as one of Scotland’s most popular leisure and shopping destinations. Located right on the shore of the lake it offers a wide range of entertainment for the whole family:
- Active recreation – mini golf, outdoor adventure play areas and, of course, boat trips on the lake.
- Shopping – shops, cafés and restaurants.
- Events – a regular farmers’ market (every first and third Sunday of the month). The most picturesque part of the village is located near the river embankment, but most of the other local attractions including Balloch Castle Country Park border directly on the lake shore.
“Maid of the Loch”: Legend of the Golden Age
The final stop on the route is Balloch Pier. Here stands the famous steamboat ‘Maid of the Loch’. It is the last paddle steamer to have sailed on Loch Lomond and a living reminder of the golden age of steam and tourism in Scotland. Built in 1953 the iconic steamer became the largest vessel of its kind on the loch, but it was taken out of service in 1981. Today, as a recognised heritage site, it is in dry dock where a charity is undertaking an ambitious project to restore it fully. During the summer months tourists can climb aboard, learn about its rich history and support volunteers’ efforts by becoming part of this inspiring story of rebirth.
