GPS Cycle and Walking Routescycle iconwalk icon

Balmaha to Milarrochy Bay and Rowardennan Walk

6.96 miles (11.2 km)

Ordnance Survey Map Open Streetmap This walk follows a popular section of the West Highland Way from Balmaha to Rowardennan via Milarrochy Bay.
The route runs for about 7 miles, following a waymarked footpath along the eastern side of Loch Lomond. There are some moderate climbs along the way with splendid views over the loch from the high points.
The walk starts from the car park and visitor centre at Balmaha Forest. From here you can pick up the trail and head north west past the ferry which runs over to the nearby Inchcailloch Island.
You'll pass the viewpoint at Craigie Fort before continuing north to Arrochymore Point, Milarrochy Bay and the woodland trails at Lag An Amair Wood.
The route then skirts the western edge of the expansive Rowardennan Forest National Memorial Park. The final section runs through Ross Wood before finishing at at the pier and visitor centre in Rowardennan. Here you'll find shelter, toilets, changing facilities, a bin-store and an exhibition area providing local information.
The route links with the next stage of the trail on the Rowardennan to Inversnaid Walk. This will take you to Inversnaid where you can visit the lovely Inversnaid falls.
The popular climb to Ben Lomond starts from Rowardennan as well.

Balmaha to Milarrochy Bay and Rowardennan OS Map Ordnance survey map - Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking

Balmaha to Milarrochy Bay and Rowardennan Open Street Map Open Streetmap - Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking

Pubs/Cafes

At the end of the route you could enjoy some rest and refreshment at the Rowardennan Hotel. It sits in a great location on the banks of the loch, with fine views over the water. The hotel dates back to 1696 but has been recently refurbished in a contemporary Scottish style.
Inside there's a cosy wood burning fire for colder days. Outside there's a Beer Garden and a little beach by the loch. They serve good wholesome food and can be found at postcode G63 0AR for your sat navs. The hotel is also dog friendly.

Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby

Photos

Jetty in Balmaha - geograph.org.uk - 3989205

Jetty in Balmaha

Arrochymore Point, Loch Lomond - geograph.org.uk - 218522

Arrochymore Point, Loch Lomond.. Looking north along the banks of the loch. There is a footpath running north along the water's edge from Balmaha - another "Millennium Walk".

Loch Lomond from Millarochy Bay - geograph.org.uk - 1727100

Loch Lomond from Millarochy Bay. Looking across the loch to Doune Hill.

Millarochy Bay, Loch Lomondside - geograph.org.uk - 827562

Millarochy Bay, Loch Lomondside. Beautiful enclosed bay and beach on Loch Lomond's east side, just to the north of Balmaha.

Northern section of Millarochy Bay - geograph.org.uk - 827564

Northern section of Millarochy Bay. Looking towards the boat jetty.

Lochshore at Cashell - geograph.org.uk - 3497269

Lochshore at Cashell

Dubh Lochan - geograph.org.uk - 1725733

Dubh Lochan

Loch Lomond from Rowardennan Hotel - geograph.org.uk - 3993333

Loch Lomond from Rowardennan Hotel

Video

GPS Files

GPX File

Balmaha to Milarrochy Bay and Rowardennan.gpx (On Desktop:Right Click>Save As. On Ipad/Iphone:Click and hold>Download Linked File)