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

  • Outstanding

    'Chef in a lodge was outstanding. The food was excellent as was the service. Superb evening.'
  • Our own private beach

    'Just walking along the West Highland way path past some of the crowded beaches made us realise the value of having your own private waterfront onto the loch.  I can still picture walking down to the lochside on our first evening and watching an osprey dive for a fish!'
  • 40th celebration

    'My husband and I came here to celebrate my 40th birthday and we truly had a magnificent time. There was everything that you needed in your accommodation even washing liquid and conditioner for the washing machine. The hot tub and steam room were a real highlight as well as the living log fire.'
  • 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.'