Duncryne Hill, known as The Dumpling, at Gartocharn in Strathclyde ..

Gartocharn

Things to do in Gartocharn

Literally across the water from us at Loch Lomond Waterfront, is Gartocharn. This village in West Dumbartonshire is a 20-minute drive away. Situated close to the shores of Loch Lomond, there’s lots of local wildlife and plenty to explore here.

On the bonnie banks

Here on the famous bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, the RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond nature reserve is a great place to visit for fabulous scenery and wildlife spotting. With an array of birds, such as osprey, pink-footed geese, wood warblers and redwings. There are also insects, fish and small mammals. So there’s plenty to look out for amongst the beautiful woodland and nature trails. Great for guided walks and picnics!

Up on the hill

The little hill Duncryne, known as The Dumpling, is a great local walk. It can be steep at parts, but is worth it for the views of Loch Lomond from the top. You can try and spot your lodge or chalet at Loch Lomond Waterfront from the summit! And interestingly, you will be walking in the footsteps of a local legend. It was a favourite climb of the famous hill walker Tom Weir, who lived in Gartocharn.

Out on the water

Based in Gartocharn, Portnellan Farm offers a range of water sports and activities, including kayaking and paddleboarding. You can also take a thrilling speedboat tour over the open water and through the lochs and islands.

An inspiring location

Scottish novelist, Sir Walter Scott, is said to have written his epic poem, The Lady of the Lake, whilst staying near Gartocharn. The poem, first published in 1810, was a story of three parts, set in The Trossachs, which inspired the Highland Revival romantic movement in Scotland.

Gartocharn makes a great trip out from your accommodation at Loch Lomond Waterfront near Balmaha. So, after exploring the village, you can return to your luxury lodge for some rest and relaxation.

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Testimonials

  • Wish we had longer

    'The ducks were very amusing, each day they waddled around the lodges looking for food, we bought some duck food for them in the local village shop. We just wished we were here for longer and hope to return in the future.'
  • Everything was more than perfect

    'Everything was more than perfect, more than what we can ask for. And the view priceless, the whole stay was priceless, so thank you ever so much, hope to see you soon.'
  • My stay will never be forgotten

    'Just wanted to say a very big thank you for my wonderful stay, I have no words to describe the incredible comfort I had at the Cawdor Diamond Lodge, I just checked out today this morning from lodge 5, I do not agree that your lodge is a five star if I could I would call it a 100 star lodge. From start to finish, my stay at the lodge will never be forgotten it's special and unique and an amazing experience'
  • Outstanding location

    'The location is outstanding - right on the edge of Loch Lomond with private water frontage and beaches. As a location for exploring, again this rates very highly. We easily accessed central Glasgow by train from nearby Balloch and also explored Stirling (particularly the castle and Wallace memorial), the Falkirk Wheel and even Perth and Pitlochry by car. It is a very peaceful place, which can only be disturbed on occasion by your neighbours but with the Slumber Charter in place, we had absolutely no problems overnight.'
  • Stunning from top to bottom

    'We booked this to relax after a family tragedy and it was the perfect tonic. Stunning from top to bottom. The rooms were perfect with all the facilities needed. The hot tub on a winters evening took it to another level. The blackout curtains, allied to no light pollution outside, meant wakening up was the most natural I had experienced for years.'