Loch Katrine Tours and Activities

Loch Katrine which includes forests and a lake or waterhole as well as a small group of people
Loch Katrine
Loch Katrine featuring boating and a ferry
Loch Katrine showing a ferry, cycling and boating
Loch Katrine which includes hiking or walking and a lake or waterhole


Trek through a picturesque national park to arrive at this fascinating world of water, diverse wildlife, vegetation and nature trails.

Loch Katrine is a large body of water surrounded by hills and green meadows. With many activities, from nature paths and cycling tracks to cruises and history guides, the lake provides a serene and informative vacation. Learn about the intriguing steamboat history and Scottish folklore involving this site.

Arrive at Trossachs Pier on the eastern part of the lake. Enjoy a picnic in the charming woodland area with views of the water. The pier has a gift shop with souvenirs relating to the region. Show your kids the book about the adorable pine martens that live in the area.

Climb aboard the Steamship Sir Walter Scott to see the lake’s stunning features via an old-world method of transportation. Listen to the loudspeaker guide, which is occasionally broken up by Scottish dance music. Spot the many small islands dotted throughout the loch.

The lake is 8 miles (13 kilometers) long and less than 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) wide. Rent a bike to cycle the perimeter to see the loch from many angles. Snap photos of the sunset, when Loch Katrine reflects the dramatic colors of the changing sky.

Take a break at the restaurant, which serves pastries and tea as well as hearty meals. Eat and drink local Scottish ale with fellow hikers and cyclists while enjoying spectacular views of the placid water.

The lake’s name means “Cattle Thief” in Gaelic, in reference to the history of a notorious Scottish cowboy in this area. Listen to fantastic tales of cattle rustlers, such as Rob Roy MacGregor who was born at the northern end of the lake. Hear about how the lake’s beauty inspired British literary giants Samuel Coleridge and William Wordsworth.

In the midst of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Loch Katrine is a 20-mile (32-kilometer) journey west from Callander. Drive the scenic route past Loch Venachar, Loch Drunkie and Loch Achray to reach the lake in about 1 hour by car. Its location near big cities makes it a popular daytrip activity for locals from Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Plan a trip to see Loch Katrine

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First Pleasance Luxury Apartment
The Harrison Chambers of Distinction
First Lasswade Road House

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Loch Katrine

Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa

Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa

4 out of 5
Kinlochard, The Trossachs, Aberfoyle, Stirling, Scotland
Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa
Loch Long Hotel

Loch Long Hotel

3 out of 5
Main Road, Argyll & Bute, Arrochar, Scotland
Loch Long Hotel
Buchanan Arms Hotel & Leisure, Sure Hotel Collection

Buchanan Arms Hotel & Leisure, Sure Hotel Collection

3 out of 5
22 Main Street, Drymen, Loch Lomond, Drymen, Scotland
Buchanan Arms Hotel & Leisure, Sure Hotel Collection
Cameron House on Loch Lomond

Cameron House on Loch Lomond

5 out of 5
A82, Alexandria, Scotland
Cameron House on Loch Lomond
The Kirkhouse Inn

The Kirkhouse Inn

2.5 out of 5
Glasgow Road, Strathblane, Glasgow, Scotland
The Kirkhouse Inn
DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro

DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro

4 out of 5
Perth Road, Dunblane, Scotland
DoubleTree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro
The Social Hub Glasgow

The Social Hub Glasgow

4 out of 5
15 Candleriggs, Glasgow, Scotland
The Social Hub Glasgow
Highland Gate, Stirling by Marston's Inns

Highland Gate, Stirling by Marston's Inns

4 out of 5
Drip Road, Stirling, Scotland
Highland Gate, Stirling by Marston's Inns
The Stirling Highland Hotel

The Stirling Highland Hotel

4 out of 5
29 Spittal Street, Stirling, Scotland
The Stirling Highland Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Loch Katrine

Loch Katrine offers a variety of activities for visitors, including scenic hiking trails and cycling paths that showcase the stunning landscape. For those seeking adventure, there are options for camping and daily trips, as well as an adventure park for thrill-seekers. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy nearby golf courses, making Loch Katrine a perfect destination for outdoor fun and relaxation in the heart of Scotland's natural beauty.

Shopping

In Loch Katrine, you can visit the Scottish Real Ale Shop, located 16.1km away, for unique local brews. If you're up for a drive, Loch Lomond Shores and the Scottish Antiques and Arts Centre, both 27.4km away, offer delightful shopping experiences with a variety of gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Enjoy a round at Aberfoyle Golf Club, an 12.9km drive from Loch Katrine, surrounded by stunning landscapes. For relaxation, visit Balloch Castle Country Park, 27.4km away, offering serene walks and peaceful spots. Alternatively, play at Loch Lomond Golf Club, 20.9km from Loch Katrine, amidst beautiful scenery.

Adventure

Explore the Great Trossachs Path - West, a 9.7km hiking trail offering stunning outdoor scenery and adventure vibes. For climbing enthusiasts, Go Country at Forest Hills Water Sport Centre is located 8.0km away, providing thrilling climbing experiences. Additionally, the Loch Lomond and Cowal Way - East hiking trail, 11.3km away, promises breathtaking views.

Nightlife

In Loch Katrine, Cottiers Theatre offers a charming cultural experience 45.1km away, perfect for a romantic night out. For family fun, visit Quadmania and Funworld Leisure, both within 22 to 37.0km, where adventure awaits in exciting arcade settings.

Find the best attractions near Loch Katrine

Loch Katrine, nestled in the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore the serene lake, majestic mountains, and picturesque waterfalls. Ideal for nature lovers and culture seekers alike, nearby attractions include Loch Lomond and Loch Long. Don't miss the warm welcome to Loch Katrine, where unforgettable experiences await in this beautiful region of Scotland.

  • Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park: Located 3.2km from Loch Katrine, this national park offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. Explore stunning trails, enjoy wildlife spotting, and take in the picturesque landscapes that define the Scottish Highlands.
  • Loch Lomond: Situated 17.7km away, this romantic lake is perfect for a day of relaxation or adventure. Enjoy scenic walks along the shoreline, partake in water sports, or simply soak in the beautiful views, all while experiencing the enchanting atmosphere.
  • Loch Earn: Located 22.5km from Loch Katrine, Loch Earn is another breathtaking lake that offers a serene environment. Ideal for picnics, water activities, and nature walks, it’s a perfect spot for couples and families looking to unwind in a stunning setting.

Best time to go to Loch Katrine

Visitor numbers around Loch Katrine is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Loch Katrine can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Loch Katrine falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Loch Katrine falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January35.2°F (1.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February36.0°F (2.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March38.3°F (3.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
September51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainVery CloudySlightly LowAverage
November40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December36.3°F (2.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Loch Katrine

To save money on your visit to Loch Katrine, consider travelling from December to February when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield better rates, and Monday is typically the cheapest day to stay. For budget-friendly activities, explore nearby Loch Lomond, Ben Lomond, and Loch Ard Forest, which offer free entry. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices, and look for last-minute deals or package savings by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities together.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Loch Katrine are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Loch Katrine is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Loch Katrine is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Loch Katrine is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, be sure to sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Loch Katrine hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.