For many travellers, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park marks the true beginning of the Highlands - a landscape where gentle lowlands rise into rugged hills, where lochs mirror the sky, and where Scotland’s wild beauty is always close at hand. Established in 2002 as Scotland’s first national park, it remains one of the country’s most popular and accessible destinations for motorhome adventures.

Just an hour from Glasgow, Loch Lomond offers the perfect balance between convenience and escape. It’s easy to reach, yet feels a world away from city life. For those hiring a motorhome from Go Explore, this region is an ideal first stop - a gateway to the Highlands, filled with natural beauty, history and outdoor experiences that suit every traveller.

A Landscape of Contrasts

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs cover more than 720 square miles of diverse terrain, stretching from the broad waters of Loch Lomond itself to the peaks of the Arrochar Alps and the quiet lochs of the Trossachs. It’s a landscape defined by variety - from forest walks and lochside villages to mountain passes and waterfalls.

The park is divided into four distinctive areas: Loch Lomond, The Trossachs, Breadalbane, and The Argyll Forest. Each has its own character and highlights, and all are easily explored by motorhome thanks to well-maintained roads and an excellent network of visitor facilities. Whether you prefer tranquil campsites by the water or scenic hilltop drives, the region offers both adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

Loch Lomond – Scotland’s Iconic Waters

At the heart of the park lies Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater loch in Britain by surface area. Stretching over 20 miles, it’s surrounded by small islands, forested shores, and mountain slopes that change colour with every season.

For visitors travelling by motorhome, the loch’s eastern and western shores each offer something different.

The western side, accessed via the A82, is the main route north and home to popular spots like Luss and Inveruglas. Luss, with its stone cottages and waterfront pier, is one of Scotland’s prettiest villages. It’s perfect for a stroll, an ice cream by the loch, or a short cruise to explore the islands.

Further north, Inveruglas provides one of the best viewpoints of Ben Lomond - the most southerly of Scotland’s Munros. You can also take short walks through woodland trails or stop at the modern An Ceann Mòr viewing platform, which overlooks the vast expanse of the loch.

The eastern shore, reached via the quieter B837 road through Balmaha, feels more remote. Balmaha is a great base for walking, including the popular trail up Conic Hill, which rewards you with panoramic views across Loch Lomond’s islands and the line of the Highland Boundary Fault - the natural divide between the Highlands and Lowlands.

The Trossachs – Forests, Lochs and Legends

To the east of the park lies the Trossachs, an area that has inspired artists and writers for centuries. Known as the “Highlands in miniature,” it’s a compact region of wooded glens, mirror-like lochs, and twisting roads that make for a perfect day’s exploration.

Loch Katrine, immortalised by Sir Walter Scott’s poem The Lady of the Lake, is one of the most famous beauty spots in the area. You can walk or cycle the lochside path, or take a cruise aboard the SS Sir Walter Scott, a historic steamship that has been sailing these waters since 1900. Nearby, the small town of Callander offers shops, cafés, and access to easy walking routes through the hills and forests that surround it.

For those seeking peace and nature, the Trossachs are ideal. The narrow roads and shaded glens lead to hidden gems like Loch Achray, Loch Venachar, and Loch Ard, each offering opportunities for kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoying the quiet.

Breadalbane and the Argyll Forest

Further north and west, the landscapes grow wilder. Breadalbane, meaning “the high country,” is home to the park’s tallest mountains, including Ben More and Stob Binnein, which rise steeply from the valley floor. The small town of Killin, with its famous Falls of Dochart, is a highlight - the sound of rushing water and the view from the old stone bridge make it a classic Highland stop.

To the west, the Argyll Forest section of the park brings a different mood entirely - deep glens, winding coastal roads and views across sea lochs towards the Cowal Peninsula. It’s a quieter area that rewards unhurried travel, with plenty of opportunities for wild scenery and photography.

Outdoor Activities and Adventures

The park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. From short family walks to challenging climbs, there’s something for every pace and ability. Ben Lomond is a popular choice for first-time Munro baggers, while forest trails around Aberfoyle and Queen Elizabeth Forest Park are ideal for cycling or relaxed exploration.

Water lovers can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or gentle cruises on Loch Lomond or Loch Katrine. Wildlife watching is also rewarding - red deer, ospreys, otters and even golden eagles can be seen throughout the park, particularly in quieter areas during early morning or evening.

For families, visitor centres such as the Loch Lomond Shores complex at Balloch offer shops, restaurants, and an aquarium, providing a great starting point for the day before heading deeper into the park.

Exploring by Motorhome

One of the biggest advantages of exploring Loch Lomond & The Trossachs by motorhome is flexibility. You can take your time, explore different areas, and wake up somewhere new each morning. The region is well-serviced for motorhome travellers, with excellent campsites and designated overnight stops that make planning straightforward.

Popular bases include Luss Caravan & Campsite, Cashel Campsite on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, and Trossachs Holiday Park near Aberfoyle. These offer electric hook-ups, showers, and easy access to walking trails and attractions.

For those travelling from Glasgow, it’s an easy first leg of a longer Highlands route - and a great introduction to Scotland’s landscapes. From here, you can continue north towards Glencoe, the Cairngorms, or the west coast islands.

As always, visitors are encouraged to travel responsibly - use recognised campsites, minimise waste, and support local businesses by shopping or dining in nearby villages.

Seasons and Scenery

Each season brings a different side of the park to life. Spring brings wildflowers and newborn wildlife, summer is perfect for water activities, and autumn transforms the forests into gold and copper hues. Winter, though quieter, has its own beauty - snow-dusted peaks, clear air, and peaceful lochs.

October is particularly special, offering mild weather, colourful foliage, and fewer crowds - making it ideal for families taking advantage of the school holidays. The comfort of a Go Explore motorhome means you can enjoy the scenery whatever the weather, with warmth, space, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

A Gateway to the Highlands

For many visitors, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs are more than just a destination - they’re the starting point of a lifelong love for Scotland. The landscapes here capture everything that makes the country so remarkable: dramatic scenery, rich history, welcoming people, and an endless sense of freedom.

Whether you spend a few days exploring the lochside villages or make it part of a longer Highland journey, this region is the perfect introduction to motorhome travel in Scotland. It combines accessibility with adventure, comfort with wilderness, and every road leads to a view worth remembering.

If you’re planning your first motorhome trip or looking to return to a favourite part of the country, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs should be high on your list - a place where the journey truly begins.