Home » Things To Do » Villages, Towns & Cities » Tarbet and Arrochar

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!

Book Accommodation

Testimonials

Thank you doesn't seem enough
'The food, service, timing of the day – everything was wonderful and exactly as planned! From the day we first visited the venue we knew it was the perfect place for our reception and we definitely did not make the wrong choice. Thank you just does not seem enough!'
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!'
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.'
An absolutely amazing wedding day
We had an absolutely amazing wedding day at Loch Lomond Waterfront. Lloyd and I loved getting married down at the water. The sun shone the whole day which made it even more special. Our guests also loved the venue and how peaceful it was during our ceremony. It was lovely just listening to the water during the minister's prayers. Lloyd and I both loved the intimacy of the venue and the stunning scenery it had to offer. The transitions for each part of the day were so quick and smooth. Even the guests commented on how smoothly everything ran. Our...
Stunning location
'Stunning location with superb views of Loch Lomond from the private beach shore we had our drinks reception down here and even had a little paddle in the loch to cool down. Excellent venue facilities. There are a few different areas inside to relax in. Main room, bar and conservatory where we had our evening buffet and fancy dress area. The Wedding package was excellent value for money and you can build your own to suit your individual requirements. We had lots of say in what we wanted and were allowed to change stuff to suit our style. 5* lodges...