Sallochy to Rowardennan

Sallochy to Rowardennan

The loch-shore stretch of the West Highland Way, 4.5km one way with the water beside you throughout

Rowardennan, Scotland

This is the section of the West Highland Way that people remember: 4.5km along the eastern shore from Sallochy to Rowardennan, 130m of gentle up and down, with Loch Lomond immediately to your left the entire way and Ben Lomond filling the view ahead.

It is linear, so plan the return. Walking it there and back makes a comfortable three hours; walking one way and using the summer ferry or a lift is the alternative. Either way, the path is waymarked, well made, and rooty in the wooded sections — footwear with some grip is worth having after rain.

There are small shingle beaches all along this stretch, and on a warm day the loch is swimmable, cold, and clear enough that people do. Rowardennan at the far end has a hotel bar, which is a reasonable way to end an afternoon.

Top tours & tickets — Sallochy to Rowardennan

Sorted by partner priority and review depth.

From Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & Kelpies Tour
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4.6(2.6k reviews)

From Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & Kelpies Tour

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  • Explore the stunning landscapes of Loch Lomond, Scotland's largest freshwater loch.
  • Visit Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's grandest castles with rich royal history.
  • See the impressive Kelpies, 30-meter-high horse-head sculptures symbolizing Scottish heritage.
From
£48
per person
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Loch Lomond: Scottish Highlands Sightseeing Cruise
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4.6(2k reviews)

Loch Lomond: Scottish Highlands Sightseeing Cruise

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  • Scenic views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding Highlands.
  • Opportunities to spot local wildlife such as ospreys and otters.
  • A relaxing and informative cruise experience with knowledgeable guides.
From
£19.50
per person
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Loch Lomond: Island Discovery 2-Hour Cruise
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4.7(1.6k reviews)

Loch Lomond: Island Discovery 2-Hour Cruise

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  • Experience the stunning natural beauty of Loch Lomond and its islands up close.
  • Learn about local history and folklore from knowledgeable guides.
  • Enjoy peaceful cruising away from the usual tourist crowds.
From
£30
per person
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Loch Lomond, the Highlands & Hairy Coos (Small Group)
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4.6(145 reviews)

Loch Lomond, the Highlands & Hairy Coos (Small Group)

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  • Small group size for a personalized experience
  • Scenic views of Loch Lomond and the Scottish Highlands
  • Opportunity to see and photograph Highland cattle up close
From
£39
per person
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Loch Lomond: Evening Cruise
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4.5(114 reviews)

Loch Lomond: Evening Cruise

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  • Experience breathtaking sunset views over Scotland’s largest freshwater loch.
  • Relaxing and intimate cruise atmosphere perfect for photography and nature lovers.
  • Opportunity to see local wildlife such as ospreys and waterfowl.
From
£24.50
per person
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Loch Lomond: Sea Life Entrance Ticket
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4.4(114 reviews)

Loch Lomond: Sea Life Entrance Ticket

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  • Explore a variety of aquatic creatures in a scenic loch-side setting
  • Family-friendly attraction with interactive exhibits
  • Located in the heart of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
From
£14
per person
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Edinburgh: Kelpies, Stirling Castle & Loch Lomond
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4.6(110 reviews)

Edinburgh: Kelpies, Stirling Castle & Loch Lomond

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  • Visit the impressive Kelpies sculptures, the largest equine sculptures in the world.
  • Explore Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's grandest castles with rich royal history.
  • Enjoy the stunning landscapes of Loch Lomond, a national park known for its lochs and hills.
From
£45
per person
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From Glasgow: Glenfinnan, Loch Lomond & The Highlands
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4.8(93 reviews)

From Glasgow: Glenfinnan, Loch Lomond & The Highlands

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  • Proximity to the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Lomond, perfect for breathtaking views and historic exploration.
  • Access to authentic Highland scenery and wildlife in the nearby national park.
  • Opportunity to experience traditional Scottish village life with local shops and cafes.
From
£55
per person
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From Luss: Loch Lomond Sightseeing Cruise
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4.7(55 reviews)

From Luss: Loch Lomond Sightseeing Cruise

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  • Scenic cruise on the iconic Loch Lomond with breathtaking landscapes
  • Opportunities to see native Scottish wildlife in their natural habitat
  • Informative commentary about local history and natural features
From
£22
per person
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Loch Lomond & Trossachs: Highland Cow Experience with cake
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5.0(21 reviews)

Loch Lomond & Trossachs: Highland Cow Experience with cake

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  • Up-close encounters with friendly Highland cows in their natural habitat
  • Scenic views of the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park
  • Includes a traditional Scottish cake tasting
From
£64
per person
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Loch Lomond Golf Round At Buchanan Castle With Lunch

Loch Lomond Golf Round At Buchanan Castle With Lunch

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  • Play golf on a course set in a historic estate with stunning Loch Lomond views
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local Scottish ingredients
  • Experience the peaceful countryside and rich heritage of Drymen
From
£178.50
per person
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Glasgow Highlands Glencoe And Loch Lomond Day Trip

Glasgow Highlands Glencoe And Loch Lomond Day Trip

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  • Explore the stunning natural beauty of Glencoe, known for its dramatic mountain scenery and rich history.
  • Visit Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater loch in Scotland, famous for its tranquil beauty and wildlife.
  • Experience the Scottish Highlands' cultural heritage and folklore.
From
£30
per person
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Plan your visit

Frequently asked questions

How long does the Sallochy to Rowardennan walk take?

About an hour and a half one way for 4.5km. Walking out and back makes roughly three hours, which is what most people do unless they have arranged transport at the far end.

Can you swim in Loch Lomond on this stretch?

People do, from the small shingle beaches along the shore. The water is cold year-round and there are no lifeguards anywhere on the loch, so it is swimming at your own judgement rather than a supervised facility.

More walks nearby

Other routes within reach of Sallochy to Rowardennan — useful if the summit is clouded in or you want a shorter second day.

References