Bluebells, Boats and Bonnie Views: The Best Ways to See Loch Lomond in Bloom
It’s bluebell season – and Loch Lomond is putting on a show!
There’s something magical about springtime on Loch Lomond. As the air warms and the days stretch out, the loch’s shorelines transform into a sea of vibrant blue — a natural spectacle that only lasts a few precious weeks each year. Bluebell season is short so now is the perfect time to hop aboard.
(We also think the bluebells are a week ahead from last year so you need to come now!)
The Inversnaid Explorer Cruise
Best for: peace and quiet, birdsong, ancient forests
Departing from Tarbet, this cruise takes you up the loch’s eastern shore to Inversnaid, where a carpet of bluebells waits in the ancient oak woodlands. The path to the left of the hotel is where you will find the RSPB nature reserve, a hidden gem — peaceful, unspoiled, and absolutely bursting with wildflowers this time of year.
OR once ashore take a turn to the right, up past the Arklet Falls and follow the path for approx an hour and a half to Keilness where you will see a field of bluebells!
Example day:
10:30am Inversnaid Explorer Cruise from Tarbet - 11.00am arrive at Inversnaid - walk to Keilness and back to catch the 2.15pm or the 4.30pm boat from Inversnaid back to Tarbet. Take a picnic and enjoy lunch at one of the many beaches along the way.
https://www.cruiselochlomond.co.uk/cruise/inversnaid-explorer
2. The Island Explorer Cruise to Inchcailloch
Best for: Island vibes, spring woodland walks and a proper bluebell bonanza.
This 35-minute crossing from Luss takes you through the scenic island-studded south of the loch, including the dramatic Narrows, before you disembark on magical Inchcailloch island. Once ashore follow the woodland trails where bluebells line the paths and birdsong fills the air.
This wee island is like stepping into a fairytale — peaceful, wild, and bursting with spring colour. There’s even a beach if you fancy a sunny picnic stop.
https://www.cruiselochlomond.co.uk/cruise/island-explorer
3. The West Highland Way Rambler (weekends only)
Step aboard the West Highland Way Rambler Cruise and experience one of the most scenic stretches of Scotland’s most iconic long-distance walk — with a bonus burst of springtime magic. This 7.5-mile route between Inversnaid and Rowardennan hugs the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and in May, it's transformed by carpets of vibrant bluebells lining the woodland paths. Whether you're ticking off a section of the WHW or just in it for the views (we don’t blame you), this cruise-and-walk combo is the perfect way to soak up the season in full bloom.
https://www.cruiselochlomond.co.uk/cruise/west-highland-way-rambler-southbound
Why Now?
Right now, the loch is at its springtime best. The weather forecast is playing nice (yes, really!), the flowers are in bloom, and the crowds haven’t quite caught on yet. It’s the ultimate time to experience the loch’s natural beauty at its finest — and from the best possible vantage point: on the water.
Top Tips:
-
Pack a picnic – there are perfect lunch spots at both Inversnaid and Inchcailloch.
-
Bring water - there are no shops where you are going
-
Wear comfy shoes – you'll want to explore those trails.
-
Bring your dog – our cruises are pet-friendly!
-
Don’t forget your camera – your Instagram will thank you.
Whether you’re after peaceful blooms or an island adventure, our cruises are your front-row ticket to bluebell season. But be quick — nature doesn’t hang around, and the bluebells will be gone before you know it.