Due to various virus related travel restrictions, we found ourselves returning to Scotland during late summer and early autumn in both 2020 and 2021.
Instead of overseas journeys, our travels became slower and more local, giving us the opportunity to explore parts of the country we may otherwise have missed. With its dramatic scenery, constantly shifting weather and quiet roads, Scotland felt like the perfect escape.
Basing ourselves around Loch Lomond, we spent our time exploring the Trossachs and surrounding areas, discovering mountain viewpoints, forest trails, lochsides and small villages along the way. Come and join us as we explore one of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes.
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond is one of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes, where calm waters stretch beneath rolling hills and distant mountains. The ever changing weather gives the loch a different character by the hour, shifting from bright reflections and blue skies to dark clouds and mist drifting across the water.
Loch Lomond Lodges
We stayed at the aptly named Loch Lomond Lodges. Simple, minimal and stylish. On the shores of the lake, in beautiful grounds, the lodges are quiet and peaceful - oh and the lodges all have a Nespresso machine.
Loch Achray
Driving along the Dukes Pass to Loch Achray is well worth the effort. The A821 links Aberfoyle with Loch Katrine. The road is tight, twisty and great fun but not so much when covered in gravel as it was on our last visit. Loch Achray is a calm and serene place to chill out or to have a chilly dip should you be so inclined.
The road takes its informal name 'Dukes Pass' from the Duke of Montrose who commissioned it so he could reach his estate. The pass is also part of the the 'Three Lochs Forest Drive' as it passes Lochan Reòidhte, Loch Drunkie and Loch Achray.
Glencoe
Get your spy moves on for Glencoe - where some of James Bond's Skyfall antics were filmed. Turn your back on the traffic and it really feels like you're in the wilds. Beautiful scenery with rivers, lochs and mountains. This area was once volcanic and covered in glaciers - not so much these days but still a must-see if you're in the area.
RSPB Loch Lomond
A tiny RSPB centre, this is great if you want a quiet walk around the woods and a lovely view point. We've not seen many birds here though but still love to come when we're in the area.
Glen Nevis
Glen Nevis is the valley the runs beneath Ben Nevis. On a nondescript road out of Fort William, drive past the Ben Nevis carpark and you'll find the valley unfolding before you. There are plenty of places to pull over and admire the view. It's well worth the trip.
