10 of the Best Things To Do Around Loch Lomond This Christmas
Christmas is one of the most magical times to visit Loch Lomond. With snow-dusted hills, cosy inns, twinkling village lights, and plenty of festive events, the area is perfect for a winter getaway. Here are just a few of our favourites.
1. Festive Market Cameron House 29-30 November, 11- 5pm
Sparkle this Christmas at the Festive Market at Cameron House, Loch Lomond. Experience twinkling lights, delicious mulled wine, a festive atmosphere and gorgeous unique gift popup shops in the ballroom at Cameron House, with something for everyone, such as luxury handmade wreaths, scrumptious fudge, mince pies, a range of Christmas cakes and other confectionaries, premium cocktails and craft gin, beautiful jewellery and art and gifts.
2. Take a Winter Cruise with Cruise Loch Lomond
Winter is a spectacular time to be out on the water. Join Cruise Loch Lomond for a beautiful winter sailing, where crisp air and still waters create a truly atmospheric backdrop. It’s a wonderful way to experience the tranquillity of the National Park and spot wildlife that’s harder to see in summer. Wrap up warm and enjoy Loch Lomond at its most serene.
Cruises from Luss and Balmaha every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from December to January 4.
3. Festive Lunch at The Oak Tree Inn, Balmaha
The Oak Tree Inn at Balmaha is a favourite year-round, but it becomes especially exciting at Christmas. Their festive lunch menu brings together hearty Scottish classics and seasonal favourites, served beside roaring fires and twinkling decorations. Perfect after a winter walk along the shores and forests of Balmaha.
4. Luss Christmas Fair
The annual Luss Christmas Fair will take place on Sunday, 7th December 2025 at the Loch Lomond Arms Hotel from 11am to 4pm.
This much-loved festive event brings together local makers, artisans, and food producers for a day of shopping, music and community spirit in the heart of Luss. Visitors can explore more than 30 stalls, offering everything from handcrafted gifts and knitwear to artisan chocolates, home baking, and locally produced gin, whisky, and liqueurs.
5. Dawn Wildlife Walks at RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond
Experience Loch Lomond at its most peaceful with an early-morning guided walk through RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond. As the sun rises, thousands of geese take flight from their roosts, creating an unforgettable winter spectacle. The 2.5 km route leads to a loch-side viewpoint, perfect for soaking up the sounds and sights of the waking landscape.
It will be dark on the way down, so warm layers and sturdy boots or wellingtons are recommended. Full meeting details are sent to participants before the event.
Upcoming dates:
6 December 2025 (6.40am)
14 December 2025 (7.00am)
11 January 2026 (7.00am)
24 January 2026 (6.40am)
7 February 2026 (6.15am)
https://events.rspb.org.uk/events/126033
6. Festive Afternoon Tea at The Lodge on Loch Lomond
Looking for something indulgent? The Lodge on Loch Lomond offers a beautifully presented festive afternoon tea, complete with seasonal pastries, savouries and freshly baked scones. Combined with sweeping winter views over the water from their restaurant, it’s one of the most relaxing Christmas treats in the area.
7. Winter Walks Around Loch Lomond
Nothing says Christmas at Loch Lomond quite like a crisp winter walk. Favourites include the West Highland Way paths near Balmaha, woodland routes around Tarbet and the shoreline trails in Luss. For the more energetic you could hike up Conic Hill or attempt Beinn Dubh or the gentler Luss Heritage Trail. With frost underfoot and mountains dusted white, it’s a beautiful way to work up an appetite for a festive meal.
**Winter Hill Safety:
Hills around Loch Lomond can be dangerous in winter, with fast-changing weather, ice, snow and limited daylight. Only attempt higher routes with proper gear, skills and a checked forecast. If unsure, stick to lower-level paths.
8. Christmas Shopping in Luss and Helensburgh
Looking for gifts that feel personal and unique? The independent shops around Luss and Helensburgh offer local crafts, Scottish treats and hand-made gifts. They’re ideal for finding something a little different while enjoying the pretty village streets lit up for the season. Our favourites are the Luss Village Shop and The Luss General Store. In Helensburgh you must visit The Scandinavian Shop, Shooftie, Tweedie and North-Northwest.
9. Sauna at the Lochside
For those brave enough to put your toe in the water at this time of the year what better way to warm up than relaxing in a lochside sauna, located at Rowardennan and Luss. Nestled by some of Scotland's most iconic cold water swimming locations, these saunas are more than just a place to sweat it out — It's a scenic retreat you won't want to leave.
10. Fireside Drinks and Local Whiskies
Finally, end a winter’s day as it should be, beside the fire with a dram. Many inns around the loch offer excellent whisky selections, winter warmers and mulled drinks. It’s the perfect finish to a festive Loch Lomond adventure. One of our favourites is the beautiful bar at The Loch Lomond Arms Hotel, with its roaring fires and comfy seating overlooking the village of Luss it’s a perfect location to sit and relax before the Xmas mayhem begins!
