Balloch Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Nestled on the southern shores of Loch Lomond, Balloch is a charming village located in the heart of Scotland. Known as the gateway to the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Balloch offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventures.

One of the main attractions in Balloch is undoubtedly Loch Lomond itself. As the largest inland stretch of water in Great Britain, Loch Lomond is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can take a leisurely cruise on the loch, enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and picturesque islands. For those seeking more adventure, water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are also available.

In addition to its stunning natural surroundings, Balloch is home to some fascinating historical sites. Balloch Castle Country Park, situated on the banks of the River Leven, is a must-visit for history buffs. The park boasts beautiful gardens, woodland trails, and the ruins of Balloch Castle, which dates back to the 19th century. Exploring the park's grounds is like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into Scotland's rich heritage.

For those interested in Scottish whiskey, a visit to the Loch Lomond Distillery is a must. Located in the nearby town of Alexandria, this distillery has been producing fine Scotch whiskey since 1814. Visitors can take guided tours, learning about the whiskey-making process and even sample some of the award-winning spirits.

Balloch is also a great base for exploring the wider region. Just a short drive away, visitors can discover the breathtaking landscapes of The Trossachs, often referred to as the "Highlands in miniature." This area is renowned for its rugged mountains, sparkling lochs, and charming villages, making it a paradise for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers.

Alternative names: Population: 1.7 thous.Elevation: 49 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 56°0'19"N, 4°35'8"W

Location

ScotlandUnited Kingdom

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Balloch Top Attractions

Balloch Attractions - What to See and Explore

Balloch offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Balloch Castle, Balloch Steam Slipway, Balloch Country Park, Maid Of The Loch. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Historic ruins in a picturesque park
Balloch Castle
Balloch Castle is an early 19th-century country house situated at the southern tip of Loch Lomond, in West Dunbartonshire, Scotland. Balloch was a property of the Lennox family from the 11th century, and the old castle was built in the 13th century.
Museum
Balloch Steam Slipway
The Balloch Steam Slipway consists of a ramp, carriage and steam powered winch located on the shores of Loch Lomond by which ships or boats can be moved in and out of the loch, usually for repairs and general maintenance.
Park
Balloch Country Park
Balloch Country Park is a 200-acre country park on the southern tip of Loch Lomond in West Dunbartonshire, Scotland. It was recognised as a country park in 1980, and it is the only country park in the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Scotland's first national park.

Historical place • Ship
Maid Of The Loch
PS Maid of the Loch is the last paddle steamer built in the United Kingdom. She operated on Loch Lomond for 29 years and as of 2021 is being restored at Balloch pier.
56°1'36"N • 4°35'20"W
Boturich Castle Venue
Forts and castles
Nature • Natural attraction • Waterfall
Ishneich
Ishneich is a waterfall of Scotland. This stunning waterfall can be reached by following the John Muir trail past the Burncrooks reservoir and through the forest.
Distillery • Whiskey distillery
Loch Lomond distillery
The Loch Lomond distillery is a Highland Single Malt Scotch whisky distillery in Alexandria, Scotland, near Loch Lomond.
Palladian architecture
Strathleven House
Strathleven House is an early 18th-century country house in West Dunbartonshire, Scotland. It is located in the Vale of Leven, around 3 kilometres north of Dumbarton.
55°57'33"N • 4°35'27"W
Dalmoak House
Dalmoak House, is a Category A listed building off the A812 Renton Road in the ancient Parish of Cardross. It sits between the village of Renton and the town of Dumbarton on the North side the Firth of Clyde in Dunbartonshire, Scotland.

Day trips

Balloch – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Balloch, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum (Glasgow), Riverside Museum (Glasgow), Gallery of Modern Art (Glasgow).

15 milesSE
Grand building of art and natural history
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow
Nestled in the heart of Glasgow, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum stands as a beacon of culture and history in Scotland's most vibrant city. This majestic building, which first opened its doors in 1901, is not only an architectural masterpiece but also one of the...
15 milesSE
Museum, Specialty museum, History museum
Riverside Museum, Glasgow
The Riverside Museum in Glasgow is a beacon of innovation and design, providing a window into the city's rich industrial past. This contemporary museum, which opened its doors in 2011, stands proudly on the banks of the River Clyde, showcasing Glasgow's transportation...
16 milesSE
Museum, Art museum, Modern art museum
Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow
The Gallery of Modern Art, nestled in the heart of Glasgow, United Kingdom, stands as a testament to contemporary creativity and the vibrant art scene of the city. This premier destination for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike is housed in an elegant...
48 milesS
Golf
Turnberry
Turnberry, located on the rugged coast of the Firth of Clyde in Scotland, United Kingdom, is a name that resonates with golf enthusiasts around the globe. Known for its iconic lighthouse and stunning ocean views, Turnberry's Ailsa Course is a jewel in the crown of golf...
16 milesSE
Specialist museum of art and artifacts
Burrell Collection, Glasgow
Nestled within the vibrant city of Glasgow, the Burrell Collection is a treasure trove of art and antiquities that offers a unique glimpse into the eclectic tastes of its eponymous collector, Sir William Burrell. This museum, which opened its doors to the public in...