Looking south across Loch Lomond from Tarbet Pier on a sunny morning. ..

Tarbet and Arrochar

Things to do in Tarbet and Arrochar

Tarbet is a small village, located on the western shores of Loch Lomond. For guests staying with us at Loch Lomond Waterfront, it is around a 40-minute drive away. It sits beside the village of Arrochar on an isthmus between Loch Lomond and Loch Long. From these two villages, you can take in spectacular views of the Arrochar Alps, a group of mountains around the head of Loch Long, and there are some lovely walking trails in this area. Also, Tarbet Pier is the main departure point for Cruise Loch Lomond boat trips and cruises.

Viking history

The area is famous for its links with Vikings. In 1263, followers of King Haco sailed from Norway to Scotland. On the journey via Loch Long, they pulled their boats across the isthmus from Arrochar to Tarbet, then set sail to raid settlements along the shores of Loch Lomond. When the Vikings returned to Arrochar with their loot, a great storm destroyed their boats. King Haco was later defeated by the Scots at the Battle of Largs.

Walking trails

The Arrochar Trail on Cruach Tairbeirt hill offers woodland walks with amazing views of Loch Long and the Arrochar Alps. You can access the trail from the underpass at Arrochar and Tarbet Train Station.

Tarbet Isle is a tiny island in Loch Lomond, just off the shore. It is only 3 metres at its highest point and 80 metres in length. The Tarbet Isle Walk is a gentle, circular route, with views of the island. For the starting point, follow the signs for Tarbet Isle car park, a short drive north of Tarbet village.

Cruise Loch Lomond

Cruise Loch Lomond runs a choice of boat cruises from Tarbet, including circular cruises, explorer cruises and waterbuses. Explore the loch by boat, learn about the rich history of the area and look out for a variety of Scottish wildlife along the way.

Places to eat and drink

There are plenty of places to eat and drink in the area, such as pubs, tea rooms and restaurants. We love The Slanj for its home-cooked food and well-stocked bar, located in an 18th-century church building in Tarbet village.

Then, after a day of walking in the footsteps of Vikings, head back to your Loch Lomond lodge, where you can kick back and relax in the hot tub!

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Testimonials

  • Right up there with the best

    'We have travelled the world and stayed in all sorts of accommodation - Loch Lomond Waterfront is right up there with the best. The facilities, quality of fixtures and fittings and the setting all add up to a superb holiday experience and one that I have no hesitation in recommending to anyone. Outstanding!'
  • 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'
  • A perfect place to relax

    'Stayed at the Waterfront Lodges for a Fri to Mon short break for our daughters birthday last weekend. Lodge was placed right on the edge of Loch Lomond with stunning views.'
  • The Lodges are amazing

    'I would like to say that we all had an amazing time staying your lodges at the weekend.  The Lodges are amazing.  Beautifully presented and everything you need within.  Stunning location.  Muy birthday/retirement celebrations were made all the more special at this wonderful location with my friends around me.'
  • 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.'