Best lakes around Loch Katrine are found within the Trossachs National Park, a region centered around this prominent freshwater loch. Loch Katrine is characterized by its long, narrow shape, clear waters, and surrounding wooded hills. It holds historical significance, having inspired literary works like Sir Walter Scott's "The Lady of the Lake," and serves as a primary water source for Glasgow. The area offers a blend of natural landscapes and historical connections.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Accessible via the steps from the parking lot. Built and completed in 2024!
0
0
You can bring your own bike or hire one, or an e-bike from the nearby Katrine Wheelz
0
0
Although many mention this is a road closed to traffic it is used by residents and various agencies.
1
0
Brenachoille Point is the perfect location to rest those weary legs. This grassy peninsula reaches into the glistening waters of Loch Katrine creating panoramic vistas that will take your breath away. It's a popular picnic spot and even features on the TV show Outlander.
1
0
You can get the steam ship SS Sir Walter Scott from Trossachs Pier to Stronachlachar.
0
0
Loch Katrine is about 13km long and 1.5km wide. It's very pretty with great views up the loch from the shore or over the valley from one of the mountains around here. The Great Trossachs Path runs along the northern shore of the loch and makes a great flat and well surfaced run if you want to escape the mountains and hills and not worry about tripping over. It's a popular cycle route so you do need to watch out for bikes though. You can use the Loch Katrine ferry for the out (or back) journey and then run the other way which makes a very pleasant day out. Do check the ferry timetable though as they don’t run all through the winter and normally only three sailings in each direction per day.
0
0
The Loch Katrine ferries can be caught here to travel to Stronachlachar Pier at the western end of Loch Katrine. There are two ferries running in the summer but only one in the spring and autumn. Ferries run regularly from 23rd March to 3rd November and less frequently over the winter. Summer departure times from here are 10:30, 13:30 & 16:15 but these could change so check lochlomond-trossachs.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Waterbus_Leaflet_2019_web.pdf It's a good idea to take the ferry and then run back along the Great Trossachs Path which follows the northern shore of Loch Katrine so that you don't have to time your run with a return ferry.
0
0
Loch Katrine itself is a prominent natural feature, known for its serene water surrounded by mountains. You can also visit Brenachoille Point, a grassy peninsula offering panoramic vistas. The area is characterized by its clear blue waters and surroundings of wooded hills and rugged peaks.
Yes, the entire loch offers stunning views. Brenachoille Point is a popular spot for panoramic vistas. The North Shore Road, Loch Katrine also provides superb views along its length. For more challenging views, nearby peaks like Ben A'an and Ben Venue offer dramatic panoramas over the loch.
Absolutely! The North Shore Road, Loch Katrine is a wide, well-surfaced path closed to vehicles, making it ideal for cycling. You can rent bicycles at Trossachs Pier and even combine a cycle ride with a steamship journey, traveling one way by boat and cycling back.
The area around Loch Katrine is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, with options ranging from easy walks to more difficult routes. Cycling is popular along the North Shore Road. There are also mountain biking trails. For specific routes, you can explore guides like Waterfall hikes around Loch Katrine, MTB Trails around Loch Katrine, and Easy hikes around Loch Katrine.
Loch Katrine holds deep historical and literary significance. It famously inspired Sir Walter Scott's epic poem 'The Lady of the Lake' and is associated with the legendary Scottish outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor, who was born near its northern shores. Since 1859, it has also served as the primary water reservoir for Glasgow, a testament to Victorian engineering.
Yes, Loch Katrine features a few notable islands. Ellen's Isle (Eilean Molach) is a romantic and iconic spot, prominently featured in Sir Walter Scott's 'The Lady of the Lake.' Factor's Island (Eilean a' Bhàillidh) is historically significant as the reputed place where Rob Roy MacGregor imprisoned the factor of the Duke of Montrose.
Yes, Loch Katrine is very family-friendly. Many areas, including Trossachs Pier and the North Shore Road, are categorized as family-friendly. There are easy walks, bike rentals, and steamship cruises that appeal to all ages. The Loch Katrine Pebble Beach Rest Area also offers a nice spot for families to relax.
The main hub for facilities is Trossachs Pier. Here you'll find tourist infrastructure such as bike rental, cafes, toilets, and parking. It also serves as the departure point for the historic SS Sir Walter Scott steamship cruises.
Yes, there are several easy walks perfect for families. The North Shore Road, Loch Katrine offers a peaceful, vehicle-free environment for walking. Shorter trails, like the Brenachoile Trail, also start from Trossachs Pier, providing easy strolls along the shore to viewpoints. You can find more options in the Easy hikes around Loch Katrine guide.
Visitors frequently praise the serene water and the surrounding snow-tipped mountains, describing it as a beautiful place to be. The vehicle-free North Shore Road is highly valued for its superb views and peaceful environment for cycling or walking. The historic steamship cruises and the overall natural beauty also receive high acclaim.
While specific dog rules for every trail are not detailed, many outdoor areas in the Trossachs National Park are dog-friendly. It's generally recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially around livestock or wildlife, and to clean up after them. The vehicle-free North Shore Road is a popular choice for walks with dogs.
Loch Katrine offers beauty year-round. Spring and autumn provide vibrant colors and milder weather, ideal for walking and cycling. Summer is popular for steamship cruises and longer days, though it can be busier. Even in winter, the snow-tipped mountains create a stunning, serene landscape. Check local weather forecasts for the best experience during your visit.


Still not found your perfect lake around Loch Katrine? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.