Rowardennan is situated on the east shores of Loch Lomond at the foot of Ben Lomond and hosts spectacular views northwards. The village is part of the West Highland Way which attracts around 70,000 walkers every year. Rowardennan offers different types of accommodation reaching from the local youth hostel to Rowardennan Hotel. It is also possible to stay in a lodge or on a campsite. The local youth hostel also acts as an activity centre with tuition in windsurfing, canoeing, archery and orienteering by professional instructors.
Rowardennan is the perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities. With Ben Lomond, one of the most popular mountains in Scotland, Rowardennan is the perfect base for those who want to go hill walking. Ben Lomond can be climbed within 2.5 hours depending on the weather. For those who don’t want to climb until the peak there is also a low level walk from Rowardennan. A map of all the routes can be found at the main car park of the village.
Although there is effectively no public transport to Rowardennan, the village has proved popular with those seeking outdoor pursuits. Boat services are available at the pier and there is also a small safe beach for those who wish to paddle in the Loch. A ferry service runs from April to September from Inverbeg to Rowardennan.
About 6 miles south of Rowardennan is the village of Balmaha with the Conic Hill and a small pier on Loch Lomond. Balmaha has bus connections to Balloch and Drymen from where you can get to the larger cities such as Glasgow.
Rowardennan to Inverbeg- 10.00 am : 2.00pm : 5.30 pm.
Inverbeg to Rowardennan- 10.30 am : 2.30pm : 6.00pm
Price: £7.00 per adult – £4.00 per Child – £3.00 per Bicycle – £2.00 per Dog
Rowardennan: A Comprehensive Guide to Exploring the Picturesque Village
Nestled on the eastern shores of Loch Lomond, Rowardennan is a quaint hamlet that serves as a popular base for adventurous travellers eager to explore the surrounding natural beauty. As part of the Ben Lomond Memorial Park, Rowardennan honours those who lost their lives in the two world wars and offers visitors a serene and meaningful experience. From scenic walks and captivating attractions to comfortable accommodation, this picturesque destination offers various activities to suit all interests.
Rowardennan is situated along the iconic West Highland Way, providing easy access to the stunning Ben Lomond, Scotland’s most southerly Munro. With its majestic views and lush landscape, Ben Lomond attracts hikers and nature enthusiasts looking to conquer its summit or meander through its diverse terrain. Visitors to Rowardennan can also enjoy the many attractions, events and food & drink options readily available in the area.
Whether it’s admiring the awe-inspiring vistas of Loch Lomond or embarking on an unforgettable hike up Ben Lomond, Rowardennan offers an idyllic getaway for those seeking tranquillity, adventure and a taste of Scotland’s splendid outdoors.
Location and Access
Rowardennan is a small, picturesque village situated on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, about 10 miles north of Balloch. It offers stunning views and serves as an ideal base for walkers, as it lies close to the West Highland Way and the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park.
Transportation Links
Rowardennan, being at the northern end of the public road, is accessible mainly via the A82, which is the primary route for travellers coming from Glasgow or further south. Those looking to reach Rowardennan using public transport will need to make their way to Balloch first and then take a local bus service or taxi to Rowardennan. For hikers, the well-known West Highland Way passes through the area, connecting Glasgow and Fort William, making it a popular stop along the route.
Car Parks and Facilities
Upon arriving in Rowardennan, visitors will find sufficient parking spaces available at the Forestry and Land Scotland car park near the Rowardennan Hotel. There is also a dedicated car park for those planning to climb Ben Lomond, managed by the National Trust for Scotland.
In terms of facilities, Rowardennan offers a few options for accommodation, including a hotel, hostel, chalet accommodation, caravan site, and camping for hikers on the West Highland Way. Nearby, visitors can also find the Rowardennan Hotel, which is a lovely spot for a meal or a refreshing drink after a long day of exploring the area.
Attractions and Activities
Ben Lomond
Ben Lomond is a prominent mountain located near Rowardennan and is one of the most popular attractions in the area. Standing 974 metres (3,196 ft) tall, it offers a challenging yet rewarding hike for those who are seeking an adventure. The panoramic views from the summit take in the beautiful Loch Lomond and the surrounding countryside. It is recommended to walk over to the far end of the car park after the hike to enjoy some fantastic views of the loch.
Rowardennan Pier
Rowardennan Pier is a picturesque spot on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, providing a conveniently accessible location to admire the stunning scenery. Visitors can take leisurely walks along the pier, soak up the tranquil atmosphere, and watch boats coming and going. The Rowardennan Hotel situated nearby serves refreshments and meals for those who want to relax and enjoy the lochside views.
Walking Trails
Rowardennan is a haven for walking enthusiasts, as it is nestled close to the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and the famous West Highland Way. There is a variety of walking trails available in the area, catering to different fitness levels and interests:
West Highland Way: This long-distance walking route is a popular choice for those looking to experience Scotland’s diverse landscapes. Spanning 96 miles (154 km) from Milngavie to Fort William, the trail passes through Rowardennan, offering beautiful views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding hills.
Nature trails in Queen Elizabeth Forest Park: The forest park features several shorter trails, allowing visitors to explore the varied woodland habitats and enjoy peaceful strolls amidst native wildlife.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, check weather conditions, and follow local guidelines while undertaking any walking or hiking activities in the area.
Accommodation Options
Hotels and B&Bs
Rowardennan offers a variety of comfortable accommodation options for visitors to choose from. One such option is the Loch Lomond Blair Byre. It provides guests with a pleasant stay featuring garden views, a terrace, and a patio (source: Booking.com).
Visitors looking for a more traditional hotel experience can opt for the Tarbet Hotel. The hotel offers all-inclusive options and is available at competitive rates (source: Tripadvisor).
Camping and Caravanning
For travellers who prefer to embrace the great outdoors during their stay, Rowardennan has a caravan and camping site available. This site provides an excellent option for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy the surrounding beauty of the area (source: Rowardennan Visitor Guide).
The West Highland Way also passes through Rowardennan, offering a range of accommodation options for hikers. Shared dorms are available, costing approximately £22 – £45 per night, while single rooms cost approximately £55 – £90 per night (source: GTWH – Going the Whole Hogg).
In summary, Rowardennan has a diverse selection of accommodations to cater for various preferences, from hotels and B&Bs to camping and caravanning options. With its stunning natural surroundings and ample activities to engage in, it makes for a memorable stay for any traveller.
Rowardennan has the following facilities
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