Discover
Rowardennan
With beautiful little beaches overlooking the loch and surrounding hills its the starting point for two fabulous walks.
The summit of Ben Lomond
Climb Ben Lomond
Nestled on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond at the foot of Ben Lomond, Rowardennan is surrounded by ancient woodland, dramatic mountain landscapes and pretty beaches with clear waters, it is a favourite destination for walkers, wildlife enthusiasts and those looking to experience the quieter side of Scotland's first national park.
Rowardennan is best known as the starting point for the ascent of Ben Lomond, Scotland's most southerly Munro (a mountain over 3,000 feet) and one of the country's most popular peaks thanks to its accessibility from Glasgow and Central Scotland. The well-maintained path to the summit makes it achievable for many walkers, with breathtaking views opening up long before reaching the top. On a clear day, the summit rewards climbers with panoramic vistas across Loch Lomond, the Highlands and beyond. Depending on fitness levels, the return walk typically takes between 3 and 5 hours.
Cruise and Climb Ben Lomond - May - Sep
Catch our Ben Lomond Explorer boat from Tarbet which operates every Saturday at 08:45 offering walkers a lovely way to access the start of this climb. Cruise from Tarbet to Rowardennan (30 min) and disembark at the Rowardennan Youth Hostel Jetty. Walk along the road to the right and you will find the start of the path through the archway at the main car park. Depending on your fitness its approx a 3-5 hr walk to the summit and back. The return boat back from Rowardennan is at 17:00hrs. Go do it!
West Highland Way Walk
Stepping off our boat at Rowardennan you could join the famous West Highland Way walk from Rowardennan to Inversnaid, 7.5 miles of undulating rocky path along the shores of Loch Lomond.
The walk starts at the rear of the Rowardennan Youth Hostel where you would take a left turn along the road until you join the path that takes you down to the lochside (the lower path on Loch Lomond). The upper path takes you to the same destination but in our mind not as pretty as you do not get the loch views.
The next 7 miles will take you through magical ancient oak forests, across stunning sandy beaches with incredible views across the loch to the Arrochar Alps.
Keep an eye out for wild mountain goats, deer and if you're lucky osprey and sea eagles.
To access this walk by boat catch our West Highland Way Southbound cruise ( walking from Inversnaid to Rowardennan) or our West Highland Way Northbound cruise (walking from Rowardennan to Inversnaid). The cruise option is available from May - Sep. We highly recommend, its a great day out and the beaches are perfect for a stop off picnic on your walk.
Worth considering
West Highland Way Rambler - Northbound
Sail from Tarbet to Rowardennan and try a taster of the West Highland Way, one of Scotland's top, long distance walking routes running along the eastern shore of Loch Lomond.
West Highland Way Rambler - Southbound
Sail from Tarbet to Inversnaid and try a taster of the West Highland Way, one of Scotland's top long distance walking routes running along the eastern shore of Loch Lomond. (Sat only).
