At around 24 miles in length and five miles across at its widest point, Loch Lomond is the largest inland stretch of water in Great Britain.
The national park, one of the U.K.’s top three, offers a huge variety of events and activities on the water and the lush green landscapes that surround it (see the park’s own ‘Top Ten Days Out’ list).
Here we pick out five of the best new offerings in 2013.
RSPB Nature Cruise
The RSPB Nature Cruise sails every Tuesday from Tarbet Pier to Inversnaid RSPB Reserve on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond. Once at shore, the Reserve Manager leads a guided walk to a lofty vantage point, sharing expert insight into the local wildlife and eco-system along the way. The chance of glimpsing a golden eagle in its natural habitat is the major draw here.
The Iconic A-listed Titan Crane in Clydebank, which helped build some of the most famous ships in the world, is now home to the most scenic bungee jump in Scotland. Jumpers reach 50 mph when plummeting 164 feet from the crane’s cantilever toward the River Clyde. The bungee is open until September 29. Adrenaline junkies can also launch themselves off the crane on its Big Swing experience.
Locally brewed beer in a tranquil location
The Oak Tree Inn in Balmaha has just launched the Balmaha Brewing Company, brewing a range of real ales and ciders using local ingredients. This handsome inn crafted from locally quarried slate and set within woods has won a string of awards, including the SLTN pub of the year in 2012.
Knockderry House Hotel has teamed up with Paul Saunders Photography to create the Introduction to DSLR Photography Course. The hands-on training day shows beginners how to get the most from their camera and frame shots. The hotel’s loch-side location provides an inspirational setting for budding photographers. The course costs £120 ($183). Participants are entitled to a discounted stay at the hotel.
Taste whisky paired with chocolate
Glengoyne Distillery is now running a whisky and chocolate matching experience. After touring the distillery, visitors get to try out a couple of whiskies (including Glengoyne’s award-winning 21 year old) and four handmade chocolates from Scottish chocolatier Nucoco.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…
(Image: Moyan_Brenn)
