Scotland: When Is a Lake Not a Lake?

When it’s a Loch!

I am not sure just how long it would have taken me to discover Scotland, had I not been swept off my feet by a Scotsman. And despite the fact that we met somewhere quite different, Scotland’s ruggedly beautiful landscapes would make a perfect setting for a romantic break, or indeed any sort of break at all.

Tranquil Waters, Scottish Summer Skies

Loch Lomond is a fine example of picture perfect Scotland, and with a journey time of less than an hour from the vibrant city buzz of Glasgow, it’s easy to get to. A few days in the delightful town of Balloch made me realise that by meeting my husband, I’d inadvertently been given the gift of a second home in Scotland, and a whole new world to explore.

My Scotsman skims stones on Loch Lomond

Balloch is small, but perfectly formed and surprising to boot. Who would have thought that there’d be a House of Fraser department store on the shores of Loch Lomond? You should rest assured however, that this is nothing like the multi floor mega shops you find in city centres; the tucked away Loch Lomond Shores complex doesn’t take anything away from the character of Balloch and has plenty more to offer visitors besides a shopping fix.

Somehow, this doesn't look like Scotland. But it is

There’s also a refreshing cosmopolitan feel here. As you stroll around and hear many different languages you realise that the appeal of Loch Lomond pulls in travellers from far and wide. I suspect they feel like I do; that Balloch is a both a picturesque and convenient base for discovering this part of Scotland, and a good starting point before taking in the other pretty places on the Loch including Luss and Tarbet, or before venturing further north into the spectacular Scottish Highlands.

The view from Balloch Castle

If you do get to visit Loch Lomond, be sure to support local businesses and stay in a B&B. You’ll be looked after, get great value for your money and the hearty Scottish breakfast will see you through the walk up to Balloch Castle where you can stop and admire the breathtaking views of the Loch. Then, you can take a boat trip and discover where the Wallabies live on the island of Inchconnachan, visit the Loch Lomond Aquarium and if you fancy a tipple, ride out for a tour of a nearby whisky distillery . 

Our boat for a leisurely cruise of the Loch

What’s not to love?

If you’ve been to Scotland, I’d love to know where you’ve been and if you haven’t yet discovered this part of the world, well it’s high time you did. 

We stayed in Time Out B&B - this recommendation is purely my own.