Get Outdoors in Loch Lomond
From your doorstep to the hills, the loch and beyond.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park surrounds you here, with the West Highland Way passing through Drymen, the shores of Loch Lomond only a short drive away and the trails of the Trossachs within easy reach. Whether you’re after a gentle wander close to home, a day in the hills, time on the water or a countryside cycle, these are some of our favourite ways to experience the landscape around Nàdar.
A Walk From Your Doorstep
Sometimes an hour in the fresh air is all you need. Set off directly from Nàdar and follow Old Gartmore Road towards Garadhban Forest, where woodland trails lead you onto a short stretch of the West Highland Way.
From there, continue on a gentle circular route through the trees before making your way back to Nàdar. Around an hour in total, it’s an easy way to stretch your legs, enjoy the countryside and be back in time to put the kettle on.
Our Favourite Spot on the Loch
Just 15 minutes from Nàdar, Milarrochy Bay is one of our favourite places on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond. With its beautiful little bay, pebbled beach and iconic lone tree standing in the shallows, it’s a lovely spot to bring a picnic, paddle or take a dip in the loch. It’s one of those places we find ourselves returning to, whether for a swim on a warm day or simply a picnic by the water.
Where the Highlands Begin
Rising above Balmaha, Conic Hill is one of the most rewarding walks in the area and a highlight of the West Highland Way. The summit sits on the Highland Boundary Fault, where the landscape shifts from the Lowlands to the rugged Highlands. You can set off on foot directly from Nàdar, following a section of The West Highland Way before climbing to the summit for spectacular views across Loch Lomond.
From here, you could choose to retrace your steps back to Nàdar, or for those with the stamina, descend into Balmaha to enjoy a well-earned meal at The Oak Tree Inn before continuing along the road back to Nàdar via Milton of Buchanan. Alternatively, descend into Balmaha, refuel, then take a pre-booked taxi or local bus back to your comfy cabin.
A Day in the Hills
For those looking to spend a full day in the hills, Ben Lomond is one of the area’s most iconic climbs. Around a 30-minute drive from Nàdar, Scotland’s most southerly Munro rises high above Loch Lomond, rewarding those who reach the summit with sweeping views across the loch and surrounding landscape.
Allow around four and a half to six hours for the round trip walk, depending on your pace and fitness, and check the conditions before setting off. Then return to Nàdar, where a warm, cosy hut and a private sauna await. The perfect way to unwind and spend a slower evening.
A Day on the Water
There are few better ways to experience Loch Lomond than from the water itself. Head to Balloch, just a 20-minute drive away, where you can hire a boat or take a guided cruise past wooded shores, hidden islands, historic houses and the mountains beyond, while hearing stories of the loch’s history and spotting wildlife along the way. Closer to Nàdar, you can also set sail from Balmaha, with boat trips around the islands or across the loch to the pretty village of Luss.
For something a little more hands-on, swap the boat for a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and get closer to the water. On a warm summer’s day, it’s a lovely excuse to get outside, have a bit of fun and enjoy the loch at your own pace.
Ride Into the Trossachs
If you prefer exploring on two wheels, Aberfoyle and the surrounding Trossachs offer something for almost every kind of cyclist. Take on the famous Duke’s Pass on a road bike, explore the forest on the gravel trails of Gravelfoyle, or head onto more technical terrain by mountain bike. With routes ranging from scenic rides to more challenging days in the saddle, there’s plenty to discover.
The cycle from Nàdar to Aberfoyle is an adventure in itself, particularly with an e-bike, or you can take your bikes by car and spend the day exploring from there.
