It was at Arrochar that Viking invaders landed in 1263, who carried their boats two miles over to Tarbert to attack the unsuspecting inland villages by Loch Lomond

Tucked at the head of Loch Long and at the foot of The Cobbler mountain, Arrochar is popular with walkers, climbers and scuba divers. The Arrochar Alps, a collection of steep and rocky mountains around the heads of Lochs Long, Goil and Fyne are popular for mountaineers. Wrecks and underwater boulders, as well as sheltered waters, bring divers from across the central belt and beyond to the area.

Arrochar is just a short drive from the banks of the famous Loch Lomond, which draws many visitors in the summer. A drive down its western bank affords spectacular scenery, but please take care as this road can have heavy tourist traffic and blind corners. Luss is a great place to stop and admire the view.

Driving west towards Inveraray, travellers pass the ‘rest and be thankful’, a stunning viewpoint on the highest point of the A83 between Glen Kinglas and Glen Croe. On the far side of this road, by the head of Loch Long, is the beautiful Ardkinglas Woodland Gardens, home to one of Britain’s tallest trees!

The Arrochar Alps are a draw for many mountaineers, and the steep, rocky slopes make for challenging walks. Ben Vorlich is a particular favourite for many, and those who tackle its steep and rocky slopes are rewarded with spectacular scenery all around. For those looking for a more gentle walk, local Forestry Commission sites have good waymarked paths.

Whether you come to Arrochar for walking, diving or just for a peaceful lochside break, you’re sure to get a peaceful atmosphere and gorgeous loch views in this pretty village.