Oooooh the bonnie bonnie baaanks of Loch Looomooond!  This classic Scots song could not be more right!  On a fresh and bright Spring day the fiancé and I took the low and/or high road to the Trossachs for a walk along the banks.

Parking at the National Park Visitor Centre at Balmaha we went for a stroll along the pebbled and pale sand beaches, and then followed the mile long route to the wee shop, pub, and restaurant where one can stop and have a swift pint or a full on meal.  It is an incredibly busy spot, but still manages to maintain a relaxed feel.  Other than walking and eating, whether in the restaurant or on the beach using a disposable BBQ (responsibly) there is loads to do.  The brave can enjoy mountain biking trails, horse-riding, jet skiing, sailing, canoeing and Kayaking.  I hope to do a bit of the old Kayaking myself this summer whilst I am on holiday up at Loch Morar.

There is also plenty of wildlife to spot, not only whilst walking but also when driving through the Trossachs.  We spied deer, an oyster catcher, and pheasants galore.  Loch Lomond and the Trossachs is a National Park, cared for by the National Park Authority.  It is the second largest freshwater loch, with the gargantuan home of Nessie pipping it to the post, and it contains many islands, ready for exploring, some of which are thought to be the remains of Crannogs.

To find out more about whats on in the Trossachs, and how to visit responsibly, have a look at the National Parks Website.

Rachael