Arden is Gaelic for headland (Ard high). Lying at the southern end of Loch Lomond, Arden, a small and sedate village, is where you will find some of the most breath-taking views of Loch Lomond with panoramic views of Ben Lomond, Inchmurrin Island and the Glen Finglas Hills. Arden is the perfect location for a tranquil and romantic getaway.
The village is the home to many beautiful ancient houses including Arden House once the home of the Buchanan family but now converted into impressive apartments.
In the time of Robert the Bruce, Auchendennan was a royal hunting estate. The present 19th century mansion became a youth hostel in 1924 and is claimed to be the largest and most beautiful youth hostels in the world.
Lomond Castle (Auchenheglish) is also a feature of this small village. The castle suffered a serious fire in 1990 and was later redeveloped as the Rose Cruin restaurant which is a popular wedding venue overlooking Loch Lomond.
The 284 acre site has been greatly excavated and has produced some interesting archaeological finds, including burial urns from the Bronze Age (c.1800BC), an Iron Age settlement with a rare glass bead and an early Christian burial. There is also a history of scandal in the village as Bannachra Castle, which has spectacular views over Loch Lomond, is famous for the murder of Sir Humphrey Colquhoun in 1592 by the chief of the MacGregor clan because he had been having an affair with his wife!
The West Loch Lomond Cycleway from Balloch to Tarbet passes through Arden and is a well made fairly flat route and is an excellent way to see the west side of Loch Lomond. A copy of the cycleway leaflet can be downloaded here.
Arden has the following facilities
Arden: Exploring the Hidden Gem of Scottish Highlands
Nestled at the southern end of Loch Lomond in Scotland, Arden is a small, picturesque village offering stunning views and plenty of charm. With its tranquil atmosphere, Arden serves as the perfect location for a peaceful and romantic getaway. The village allows visitors to truly immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding area, featuring panoramic vistas of Ben Lomond, Inchmurrin Island, and the Glen Finglas Hills.
Outdoor enthusiasts can utilise Arden as a starting point for exploring the breathtaking scenery and long walks in the vicinity. A short distance from the village is Duck Bay Marina, a popular spot for enjoying a quiet drink on the banks of Loch Lomond. For those looking for a touch of luxury, the remarkable 5-star Baronial Mansion Cameron House is nearby, offering delightful accommodation options.
As part of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Arden boasts a wealth of natural beauty and is an attractive destination for travellers seeking to experience the unique charm of rural Scotland. Combining serene landscapes with warm hospitality, Arden is a must-visit destination in the heart of Loch Lomond.
Arden: An Overview
Geographical Location
Arden is a small, tranquil village situated at the southern end of Loch Lomond in Scotland. The area offers breathtaking views of Loch Lomond, with panoramic vistas of Ben Lomond, Inchmurrin Island, and the Glen Finglas Hills. It provides the perfect location for those seeking a serene and romantic getaway.
Significance of the Area
Loch Lomond is a significant and popular destination, as it forms part of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. This national park offers incredible opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, wildlife spotting, and water-based sports. Additionally, visitors to the Arden area can enjoy various attractions such as:
- The Carrick Golf Course: A well-known golf course offering 18 holes of challenging play and stunning views of Loch Lomond.
- The Carrick Spa: A luxurious spa facility where guests can indulge in relaxing treatments while soaking in the surrounding beauty.
- Auchentullich Farm Shop: A specialty and gift shop showcasing local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
- Loch Lomond Seaplanes: An unforgettable air tour experience, allowing you to see the breathtaking landscape of Loch Lomond and the surrounding area from the sky.
- Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre: A unique opportunity to observe fascinating birds of prey up close, including eagles, falcons, and owls.
The Arden area serves as an ideal base for exploring both the natural wonders of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and the nearby attractions and activities. It offers fantastic options for accommodation, including the Arden Lodges, which provide comfortable and well-equipped lodges within the beautiful Loch Lomond Castle Estate.
Attractions and Activities
Outdoor Activities
Loch Lomond is an excellent location for various thrilling watersports activities such as jet-skiing, water skiing, and kayaking. The area also offers a wonderful environment for avid hikers, cyclists, and adventure seekers. There are plenty of mountains, cycle paths, and forest trails to conquer, catering to all ability levels. For those looking to explore the majestic islands of Loch Lomond, numerous boat tours and cruises are available.
Historical Sites
Arden and the surrounding Loch Lomond area are rich in history, making it a fantastic destination for history enthusiasts. Some historical sites worth visiting include:
- Loch Lomond Shores: A popular visitor destination with shops, an aquarium and a beautiful view over the loch.
- Balloch Castle: A beautiful historical building within the Balloch Castle Country Park, offering serene walks and picturesque surroundings.
Wildlife and Nature Conservation
Loch Lomond is a haven for wildlife, with various nature and wildlife conservation areas nearby. Some of the key highlights include:
- Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park: This massive national park, encompassing Loch Lomond itself, offers a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
- RSPB Loch Lomond: A nature reserve managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, this area provides the perfect place for birdwatching and exploring wetland habitats.
These attractions make Arden and the surrounding Loch Lomond area a diverse, captivating destination for visitors seeking adventure, historical exploration, and a connection with the natural environment.
Accommodation and Dining
Hotels and Lodges
Arden, located in Loch Lomond, offers a variety of luxurious accommodations for visitors. One popular choice is The Loch Lomond Guesthouse and Lodges, a 5-star establishment with stylish, contemporary surroundings. Prices for these lodges start at £135 per unit per night.
Another option is Auchenheglish Lodges, which offer 21 individually styled cottages and lodges in various locations near the shores of Loch Lomond. Prices for these lodges start at £954.80 per unit per week.
Restaurants and Pubs
After exploring the beautiful sights of Loch Lomond and the picturesque village of Arden, you can enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink in some of the local restaurants and pubs. Unfortunately, there isn’t much information available on specific establishments in the area, but travellers can find dining options in nearby towns such as Alexandria, Balloch, and Luss.
Getting There and Around
Transportation Options
There are a few options to choose from when travelling to Arden in Loch Lomond. For those who prefer using public transport, there are both bus and train options available.
Train services provide an easy way to reach Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. ScotRail operates a direct line from Glasgow Queen Street to Balloch, which takes approximately 50 minutes. The train services run approximately two every hour, making it a convenient choice for visitors.
From Balloch station, it is a short walk to catch a cruise on the loch or wander through Balloch Castle Country Park, which offers picturesque views of Loch Lomond, Ben Lomond, Inchmurrin Island, and the Glen Finglas Hills.
For those who prefer bus services, they also provide good access to the National Park. Buses generally have frequent and reliable schedules, ensuring that visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful views without any stress.
For travellers who prefer to take their own vehicle, there are several main and smaller roads providing access to Arden in Loch Lomond. Following the A83 will lead towards the Cowal Peninsula and Tarbet/Arrochar areas. Alternatively, the A815 offers a different route to explore the loch’s surroundings.
In any case, getting around Arden, Loch Lomond is part of the experience. So, whether travelling by car, bus or train, the journey will be filled with beautiful landscapes and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Explore Arden
Use the search feature below to explore accommodations, activities, attractions, and places to eat and drink, in and around Arden.