Loch Katrine Tours and Activities

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


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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Grassmarket hotel
Private and Prestigious Luxury Home
First Lasswade Road House

Popular places to visit


Top Loch Katrine Hotel & Accommodation Deals

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 range of activities for visitors, including scenic hiking trails that showcase the stunning landscape. You can also explore an art gallery featuring local artists and enjoy a leisurely experience on rowing boats, allowing you to take in the beauty of the loch from the water. This picturesque destination promises an unforgettable adventure for all nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike.

Shopping

The closest shopping option is the Scottish Real Ale Shop, 16.1km from Loch Katrine, offering a unique selection of local brews. If you're up for a drive, Loch Lomond Shores and the Scottish Antiques and Arts Centre, both 27.4km away, provide a mix of shopping and entertainment.

Recreation

Loch Lomond Golf Club offers a stunning golfing experience surrounded by nature, perfect for sports enthusiasts. Arrochar Play Area is ideal for families, providing a fun outdoor space for children. Balloch Castle Country Park invites you to unwind with its tranquil landscapes, perfect for relaxation and wellness.

Adventure

Explore the Great Trossachs Path, a scenic hiking trail located 9.7km from Loch Katrine, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For climbing adventures, visit Go Country at Forest Hills Water Sport Centre, situated 8.0km away. Alternatively, hike the Loch Lomond and Cowal Way, found 11.3km from Loch Katrine.

Nightlife

For a unique night out, visit Cottiers Theatre, 43.5km away, for a mix of culture and romance. If you're in the mood for some fun, check out Quadmania or Funworld Leisure, both around 22-37.0km away, offering adventure-filled arcade experiences for the whole family.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Loch Katrine

Loch Katrine is a stunning destination featuring picturesque lakes, majestic mountains, and beautiful waterfalls, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers. Explore the enchanting local lochs, including Loch Lomond, Loch Ard, and Loch Long, with activities that showcase the breathtaking scenery. Whether you're hiking, sailing, or simply soaking in the views, Loch Katrine offers a memorable experience for every traveller looking to connect with nature.

  • Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park: A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, this national park, only 3.2km from Loch Katrine, boasts breathtaking scenery, adventure trails, and a diverse landscape, perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.
  • Loch Lomond: Located 17.7km away, this stunning lake is ideal for romantic strolls along its beaches, offering picturesque views and opportunities for water activities like kayaking and picnicking amidst nature's beauty.
  • Ben A'an: Just 6.4km from Loch Katrine, this hill provides a rewarding hike with magnificent panoramic views from the summit, making it a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.

Best time to go to Loch Katrine

The best time to visit Loch Katrine is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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 trip to Loch Katrine, consider visiting between December and February for lower accommodation prices. Booking about a month in advance usually yields the best rates, while Monday is the cheapest day to stay. Be on the lookout for last-minute deals on Expedia, and use their search tool to filter by budget and eco-friendly options. For added savings, combine your hotel, flights, and activities in a package deal. Don't forget to compare hotels and look for discounts on local cruises for a budget-friendly experience.

  • 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: Booking a hotel around Loch Katrine about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Loch Katrine hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.