When you visit Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, make sure to include Loch Katrine in your plans. It’s a one-of-a-kind destination that you won’t want to miss. Located in the heart of the national park, this lake has been the primary source of fresh water for Glasgow for more than 150 years. The name “Loch Katrine” has its origins in the Gaelic word “cateran,” which means “Highland robber.” Here is your itinerary for a day at Loch Katrine.
Why should you visit Loch Katrine:
The Sir Walter Scott steamship is still in operation today, providing visitors with the opportunity to take scenic cruises along the loch and its surrounding islands. On these cruises, visitors can enjoy the magnificent views, watch wildlife, and learn about the area’s rich history and culture. Additionally, the loch area provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, fishing, and camping. Visitors can take advantage of the various trails, facilities, and services available at both ends of the loch.
Loch Katrine is the Birthplace of Scottish tourism:
Where, gleaming with the setting sun,
One burnished sheet of living gold,
Loch Katrine lay beneath him rolled.
– from Lady of the Lake by Sir Walter Scott
The scenic surroundings of Loch Katrine have been a source of inspiration for Sir Walter Scott’s famous poetry and are also connected to the Scottish legend of Rob Roy MacGregor. Many tourists visit Scotland to witness the beauty of the landscapes that have been immortalized by Sir Walter Scott. In fact, Scottish tourism started booming after the release of his epic poem “Lady of the Lake”.
Lock Katrine and the Queen Victoria:
Loch Katrine is a beautiful location with a rich history and breathtaking scenery. The loch serves as a reservoir for the water supply of the Glasgow area, connected by two aqueducts inaugurated by Queen Victoria in 1859.
How to go for a day out at Loch Katrine:
Katerine Lock is located approximately 32 miles away from Glasgow, and it usually takes around one hour to reach it.
As you travel towards your destination, you will come across Aberfoyle, which is merely 7 miles before Loch Katrine. We recommend stopping at the car park and taking a visit to the Scottish Wool Centre. After Aberfoyle, please exercise caution as the road ahead is quite narrow, allowing only two cars to pass side by side. If you encounter a bus or larger vehicle from the opposite direction, it may be challenging to manoeuvre around them.
How to spend a day at Loch Katrine:
Loch Katrine offers a plethora of activities to enjoy. Apart from taking a cruise, you can cycle, walk along the loch, explore viewpoints, and, above all, make lasting memories with your loved ones.
Cruise on Loch Katrine:
One of the main highlights of this location is the steamship, Sir Walter Scott, which offers breathtaking views of the surroundings. There are three different types of cruises available: a 45-minute option, a one-hour option, and a two-hour option. The cruise service begins at 10 am and ends at 4.15 pm, but we recommend opting for the one-hour cruise at 1 pm. Please note that the one-hour cruise only runs once, while the two-hour cruise runs twice (at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.), and the 45-minute cruise runs once every hour. It’s worth noting that the bigger steamship, Sir Walter Scott, operates the one-hour and two-hour cruises, while the smaller ship, Lady of the Lake, operates the 45-minute cruises. If you’re travelling with your family, purchasing a family ticket would be more cost-effective.
Bike rent on a day at Loch Katrine:
We enjoyed visiting the bike rental shop for a cycling adventure. My daughter rented a bike and rode an additional 5 miles to explore a waterfall and some scenic viewpoints.
Other facilities available on a day at Loch Katrine:
There are plenty of parking spots available near the cruise information centre. You can take a relaxing break and enjoy your meal since there are ample spaces. Furthermore, there are restaurants nearby where you can have lunch. We enjoyed our ice cream at the Steamship Cafe. Additionally, there are plenty of restrooms located near the parking area.
Accommodation to stay at Lock Katrine:
If you’re planning to spend a few days in nature, you can book accommodations at Loch Katrine Eco Camping. They have a variety of options available.