The Balmaha Experience

Loch Lomond’s Ultimate Destination

We may be biased, but we believe that Balmaha is Loch Lomond's ultimate destination. So we've produced a handy map and guide to exploring Balmaha, available free of charge from The Oak Tree Inn and St Mocha Coffee Shop. You can also download it here.

Balmaha is a picturesque village on the eastern shores of Loch Lomond, with a beautiful natural bay boasting views across the water to nearby Inchcailloch Island. Here are some Balmaha highlights and wonderful Loch Lomond experiences:

Conic Hill

Follow the path from the back of the village car park to the summit of Conic Hill for panoramic views of Loch Lomond and it’s islands.

Ben Lomond

A 7-mile scenic walk, cycle or drive to Rowardennan brings you to the pathway for Ben Lomond, Scotland's most southerly Munro. It's a steep and long climb but incredibly rewarding, with views as far as Ben Nevis on a clear day.

Inchcailloch Island

Balmaha Boatyard operates a ferry service to Inchcailloch Island, one of Loch Lomond's most beautiful islands. The island is a nature reserve and unspoilt, and it has a sandy beach at the southern end. (ferry operates 9:25-5pm)

National Park Visitor Centre

Get helpful information on geology, nature, conservation and history at the National Park Visitor Centre in Balmaha Car Park. Learn about the Highland Boundary Line that crosses Scotland close by, where the Lowlands of Scotland become the Highlands.

Tom Weir Statue

Weir's Rest is a popular picnic spot between Balmaha Bay and The Oak Tree Inn, and is a tribute to Scotland's much-loved mountaineer and TV presenter, Tom Weir. Tom's TV shows and writing attracted many people to the countryside wonders of Scotland. The site's focal point is a statue to him, where many people pose for selfies when passing.

Fishing

There is not many more relaxing activities than fishing on the placid waters of the Loch, and taking in the breath-taking scenery. Check out the Fishing Scotland website to book an activity.

Millennium Forest Trail

At the back of the car park, you will find a map with a guide to Balmaha's Millennium Forest Trail. Enjoy a pleasant walk through the forest, where you might be lucky enough to see a rare red squirrel. In addition, there are great views from the elevated point at Craigie Fort.

Balmaha Pontoon

We recently introduced a new pontoon at Balmaha, the first on east Loch Lomond to provide disabled access, where you can take a cruise to picturesque Luss, getting up close to some of Loch Lomond's islands on the scenic crossing.

Good Food and Drink

Visit The Oak Tree Inn or St Mocha Coffee Shop for everything from snacks and takeaway options, to delicious and hearty meals. We highly recommend trying our homemade ice cream or artisan coffee which we roast on-site! We also have a well-stocked village shop, with groceries and souvenirs.

More visitor information:

• See Loch Lomond has detailed guides to East Loch Lomond

• Information from Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority

• We are proud supporters of Friends of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

• We are members of destination group Love Loch Lomond