The biggest loch in Britain by area, half Highland and half Lowland, with an easy first hill above Balmaha
Loch Lomond sits right on the line where the Lowlands end and the Highlands begin. That line is the Highland Boundary Fault, and you can walk along it up Conic Hill above Balmaha, where the wooded islands out in the water line up along the same seam of rock. South of the fault the loch is broad and dotted with islands; north of the fault the water narrows and deepens between steeper hills.
The National Scenic Area covers 281 square kilometres of loch, shore and mountain. Ben Lomond rises on the east side, the most southerly Munro in Scotland and a long but straightforward pull on a good day. The West Highland Way threads the eastern shore, and the John Muir Way crosses the southern end.
Conic Hill is a gentle option and has the classic view down the loch. Ben Lomond and its neighbours want settled weather and decent footwear before you commit to the top.
