Published in Scotland Magazine Issue 9 on 20/7/2003.

This article is 62 months old and some information provided may be time sensitive. Please check all details of events, tours, opening times and other information before travelling or making arrangements.

Land of adventure (Loch Lomond, Stirling, Trossachs)

GAVIN D SMITH INTRODUCES A STUNNING AREA OF SCOTLAND LONG-FAVOURED BY TOURISTS AND CELEBRATED IN LITERATURE AND SONG

Loch Lomond, Stirling and the Trossachs embrace some of the most beautiful scenery in Scotland, as well as sites associated with great historical events that have shaped the modern nation. Much of the area is within the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Scotland’s first National Park, which was officially opened by HRH The Princess Royal on 24th July 2002.

The park encompasses some 720 square miles of prime Scottish landscapes, and extends from Balloch at the southern end of Loch Lomond to Tyndrum, Crianlarich and Killin, by Loch Tay, in the north. In the west it runs to the Argyll Forest Park, while in the east it embraces Loch Earn and the popular tourist town of Callander.

At the heart of the park, of course, is the loch itself, long a favoured place of recreation for people from the industrial towns of the west of Scotland, and the city of Glasgow. Approaching the loch along the main A82 from the Glasgow area, the visitor arrives at Balloch and Loch Lomond Shores, described by the National Park authorities as “a principal gateway to Scotland’s first National Park.”

Central to Loch Lomond Shores is the imposing Drumkinnon Tower, a modern interpretation of a traditional Scottish castle, which includes shops, cafés, bars and viewing galleries. There is also a 350-seat giant screen theatre where visitors can enjoy the Legend of Loch Lomond and Beneath the Loch, a short animated family show which follows the story of a young otter as he explores the depths of th.....

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By Gavin D. Smith

Section : Regional Focus

Page number : 46