Forests, Mountains and Scenery – an Abundance of Views

Set off after breakfast for your first sight of the day, Luss Pier. Here, you'll have a 360-degree view of the loch and can revel in its magical contrast of dark waters surrounded by rich green hills – both of which are a Scottish speciality.

No trip in Scotland is complete without a visit to a historical castle, and fitting in with the fascinating theme of the day, Dalnair Castle is the next stop. Have a look at the royal architecture of this beautiful castle, dating back to 1884, before you set off for lunch to refuel your energy.
Dalnair Castle is an incredible sight to behold, and a remarkable retreat for those seeking an idyllic escape. Set in lush woodland on the edge of the Trossachs National Park, the castle boasts a stunning tower and Tudor-arched doorway that provide a breathtaking backdrop. Enjoy views of the Endrick Water and rolling hills from its centuries-old walls, and explore the surrounding estate at leisure. It has deep historical roots too – situated on the site of the former Endrickbank House, it was originally built for Thomas Brown, a Glaswegian merchant.

Drymen is one of the small towns surrounding Loch Lomond. In the past, it was a major stopping place for cattle drovers in the Highlands. Today, it's a small, pleasant village, offering charming walks. The major attraction here is an 18th-century inn, believed to be the first licensed in Scotland. You can have lunch at one of the local eateries in Drymen.

It's time for the cream of the crop of the national parks – Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, which offers the most stunning and diverse scenery in the region.
Follow the waymarked walking trails to discover quaint waterfalls, trickling streams along bedrocks, forest areas with every shade of green, and all with a backdrop of dramatic mountains and a sparkly loch. Follow the easy paths to ensure you enjoy the magic of its nature without strenuous trekking.

Moving back to the shores of Loch Lomond, head to Balmaha Visitor Centre for a great spot to park your car before exploring the Conic Hill area. Walking the whole of Conic Hill is a strenuous task and can take a couple of hours, so instead walk the short tracks around Balmaha for some similarly spectacular views. You'll find it hard to choose a favourite direction in which to gaze, as you can spin around and stop in any spot for a sight to relish.

As a final treat on your trip, visit Killearn, a small, cosy village with little houses and delicious food. While here, definitely make time to stop at the Buchanan Monument, commemorating Killearn's son, a historian who taught King James VI of Scotland. This is also a perfect place to have dinner, as the town has some great eateries to offer, serving hearty meals.