Balloch Castle Country Park Walk
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On the southern tip of Loch Lomond sits the stately Balloch Castle Country Park. As the only country park in all of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, this walk features a unique setting and a great outing for the whole family. The Scottish baronial style Balloch Castle was built in 1808 and overlooks the shores of Loch Lomond. The walk unfolds on a mostly flat tarmac path, inviting visitors to take in the grand walled gardens on the grounds, the scenic banks of River Leven, and the impressive Balloch castle architecture.
Getting there
To get to the Balloch Castle Country Park, Walk from the center of Balloch, head northwest on Riverside before turning left onto Riverside. Drive a short distance before turning right onto Balloch Road. Continue 0.5mi on Balloch Road, then turn left onto Mollanbowie Road. After 0.6mi, turn left, then right, then a final left, following the Balloch Castle Country Park signs.
About
When to do | Year-Round Access |
Backcountry Campsites | No |
Pets allowed | Yes |
Family friendly | Yes |
Route Signage | Average |
Crowd Levels | Moderate |
Route Type | Circuit |
Balloch Castle Country Park Walk
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Balloch Castle Country Park Walk Description
It’s hard to beat a pleasant stroll in a country park, especially when that park includes a 19th-century castle and sprawling, manicured gardens. Although the Balloch Castle is not open to the public at present, this walk invites you to explore the gorgeous grounds of the 200-acre country park on a trail that takes in its gardens, the Horseshoe Woods, and the peaceful shoreline of Loch Lomond. For a pint or a bite following the walk, head to the cozy Balloch House Pub located on Balloch Road, just a five-minute drive from the park.
The walk begins at the far end of the car park, unfolding on a well-marked path that weaves through the grounds and along the shores of Loch Lomond. The second section features a lovely stretch in the Horseshoe Woods, home to towering, ancient trees. The path soon leads along the mouth of the River Leven, where you’ll spot several boats moored. A gorgeous walled garden soon graces the trail before passing through a stone archway leading to a brief uphill section. Before the walk ends, you’ll take in the castle and its impressive architecture before continuing the small road that leads from it back to the car park where the walk began.
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