Pretty Loch Lomond Villages
Loch Lomond Villages
Welcome to our Top 10 list of the prettiest villages in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. it’s as controversial as we get! Have your say in the comments below—do you agree or disagree with our choices and their rankings?
One thing’s for sure, we can all agree that the National Park is home to some truly beautiful villages.
We’d love to hear your thoughts—let us know what you think!
No. 10 – Ardentinny
Ardentinny is a charming village located on the banks of Loch Long, known for its peaceful atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. One of its standout features is the long sandy beach, making it an excellent destination for those who enjoy leisurely walks along the shore or a scenic picnic by the loch.
The village is part of the Cowal Peninsula, an area rich in natural beauty and local history. The local community has created an informative map and guide detailing key points of interest, local wildlife, and the village’s history. This guide is displayed on an information board by the shoreline, with handy leaflets available for visitors to take away.
A visit to Glenfinart Walled Garden is highly recommended. This beautifully restored historic garden offers a tranquil escape and is managed by dedicated volunteers from the local community. Read our full guide to Ardentinny for more information on what to see and do in this lovely village and our Cowal Peninsula Highlights to discover other must-visit places in the area.
No. 9 – Lochgoilhead
Sitting at the head of the striking Loch Goil, Lochgoilhead offers a dramatic setting, with its fjord-like landscape surrounded by steep, forested hills. The village is a picturesque and peaceful retreat, a hidden gem in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.
Getting to Lochgoilhead is an adventure, with a scenic and winding road journey offering breathtaking views. Once you arrive, you can enjoy leisurely walks by the loch or hiking and kayaking.
Do visit the nearby Cormonachan Woodlands. This beautiful woodland area is home to ancient oak trees, diverse wildlife, and well-maintained trails with stunning views of the loch. If you wait patiently at the wildlife hide, you should be lucky enough to spot red squirrels in their natural habitat.
Lochgoilhead is well worth the visit. Be sure also to check out our complete guide to Loch Goil for more details on what to explore during your trip.
No. 8 – Aberfoyle
Aberfoyle is a charming village on the rise, often called the gateway to the Trossachs. Surrounded by stunning scenery, it’s an ideal base for exploring the National Park. Over recent years, Aberfoyle has undergone a quiet transformation, with local businesses on Main Street playing a key role. The hand-painted signs and carefully curated shops have breathed new life into the village, making it a more vibrant and attractive destination for visitors.
Whether browsing the shops, enjoying a meal at one of the local cafes, or hiking in the nearby hills, Aberfoyle offers something for everyone. It’s also the starting point for several popular walking and cycling trails, including those leading to Loch Ard and the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park.
To learn more about what Aberfoyle has to offer, you can check out our general guide to Aberfoyle for tips on how to make the most of your visit.
No. 7 – Gartocharn
Gartocharn is a lovely village spread along the A811, offering a peaceful rural atmosphere and easy access to some of the best views in Loch Lomond. One of its key highlights is The Dumpling (Duncryne Hill), a short but rewarding climb that provides stunning panoramic views over Loch Lomond and its islands—a favourite spot for photographers and walkers alike.
Just outside Gartocharn, you’ll find one of the RSPB Loch Lomond reserves, where you can explore nature trails and spot various bird species. Nearby is Ross Priory, a historic estate dating back to 1693. Now owned by Strathclyde University, it offers beautiful gardens and grounds, with Loch Lomond as its backdrop—a popular venue for weddings and events.
No. 6 – Killin
Killin is a stunning village on the western edge of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. It is known for its breathtaking scenery and rich history. One of its attractions is the Falls of Dochart, a series of dramatic rapids that flow through the village. Whether strolling along the bridge or relaxing by the riverbanks, the falls provide a picturesque and calming backdrop, making them a must-visit.
In addition to the falls, Killin offers a picturesque walk to Loch Tay, where you can enjoy stunning views of the loch and surrounding mountains. The village is also a popular base for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for cycling, fishing, and exploring nearby trails.
Check out our guide to Killin to help you plan your visit.
No. 5 – Blairmore
Blairmore is an award-winning village on the shores of Loch Long, renowned for its well-kept surroundings and strong sense of community. Its beauty and charm are thanks to the dedication of its small but passionate group of residents. One of the village’s key attractions is the restored Victorian pier, now managed by a non-profit trust. The pier is a lovely spot for a stroll, and it comes to life when the iconic Waverley Steamship stops, offering visitors a nostalgic experience.
Across from the pier, the thoughtfully designed gardens provide a tranquil space on the hillside, with creative landscaping that enhances the views over Loch Long. It’s a great place to relax and take in the scenery.
Another gem in Blairmore is the excellent coffee shop—a perfect spot to unwind after exploring the pretty. Cowal Peninsula.
No. 4 – Drymen
Drymen is a vibrant village known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community. At the heart of the village lies Drymen Square, which is lovingly maintained by a local trust on behalf of residents. Special mention goes to Drymen in Bloom, whose efforts ensure the village always looks its best with beautiful floral displays throughout the year.
Drymen is a key stop for walkers on the West Highland Way, making it the most popular choice for the first overnight stay on this long-distance walking route. With a range of pubs, hotels, and B&Bs, visitors are guaranteed a warm welcome and comfortable rest after trekking.
In addition to the West Highland Way, Drymen is the starting point for another iconic long-distance walk, the Rob Roy Way. The village has a rich connection to Rob Roy, with the outlaw’s sister having been the first landlady of The Clachan Inn, Scotland’s oldest licensed pub—a must-visit for history lovers.
Although Drymen isn’t directly on a loch, it ranks highly on our list for its character and history. From the viewpoint opposite the Buchanan Arms Hotel, you can still enjoy distant views of Loch Lomond.
You can learn more about what makes Drymen special in our detailed guide to Drymen.
No. 3 – Luss
Luss is a highly popular conservation village located on the western banks of Loch Lomond. With its picture-perfect charm, it’s no surprise that Luss attracts countless visitors throughout the year. Strolling through the village, you’ll pass beautifully maintained stone cottages adorned with colourful flower displays, leading down to Luss Pier, a prime spot to take in panoramic views of Loch Lomond.
From Luss Pier, there are numerous ways to explore the loch. You can hop on a Loch Lomond cruise, take a speed boat ride, or relax on one of the beaches on either side of the pier. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a peaceful walk by the loch, participate in water-based activities, or soak up the beauty of the surroundings, Luss offers something for everyone.
With its idyllic setting and well-preserved heritage, Luss is truly one of Loch Lomond’s gems. Unsurprisingly, this beautiful village could have easily taken the top spot in our Top 10 list. To learn more about Luss, including things to see and do, check out our detailed guide to Luss.
No. 2 – St Fillans
St Fillans is a stunning village situated on the banks of Loch Earn, right on the edge of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Known for its serene beauty and picturesque setting, St Fillans is a peaceful retreat that feels like a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
The village offers more than just beautiful scenery. It’s a fantastic starting point for various outdoor activities, including a scenic walk that takes in the surrounding landscape. St Fillans is also part of the BLiSS Trail, a unique art and culture route linking it with nearby villages such as Strathyre, Balquhidder, and Lochearnhead. The trail features a series of sculptures and installations that add an extra layer of charm and interest to your visit.
Whether you’re visiting for a walk, exploring the BLiSS Trail, or simply enjoying the tranquil beauty of Loch Earn, St Fillans is well worth a stop on your journey through the National Park. For more information, read our full guide to St Fillans.
No. 1 – Balmaha
Balmaha claims the top spot on our list, and it’s easy to see why. Nestled on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, this charming village boasts a stunning natural bay with views across the water to Inchcailloch Island. The picturesque setting offers a perfect starting point for exploring Loch Lomond’s beauty.
For those who love hiking, Conic Hill is right behind the village. A climb to the summit rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the bay, the loch’s many islands, and the majestic Ben Lomond in the distance. It’s one of the most iconic viewpoints in National Park and well worth the effort.
While in Balmaha, don’t miss the chance to snap a selfie with the beloved Tom Weir Statue, a tribute to the famous Scottish climber and broadcaster. The statue is a popular spot for visitors, adding to the village’s lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Balmaha exudes a real holiday spirit, with many things to see and do, from scenic walks and boat trips to relaxing by the lochside. It’s the ideal place to soak in the beauty of Loch Lomond, which is why we’ve ranked it as the prettiest village in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs.
To learn more about this beautiful village, check out our guide to Balmaha.
Thanks for reading
Words and photography by Paul Saunders. Visit Paul’s Marketing and Photography websites for details of his services in Scotland.
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Buy our guidebook, 101 Things to Do in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, packed with attractions, views, and activities to enjoy.