Distance: Approximately 8 miles (13 km)
Terrain: Varied – forest paths, country roads, and lakeshore trails on the West Highland Way
Morning Departure From Ashbank B&B
Our second day on the West Highland Way began with a hearty breakfast at the Ashbank Bed & Breakfast in Drymen. The owners, true to Scottish hospitality, laid out a spread that would fuel us for the day ahead. As we sipped our strong Scottish tea and ate breakfast, we chatted with fellow hikers, exchanging tips and excitement for the day’s journey.
Feeling well-fed and energized, we set out from Drymen towards Balmaha. It was a short walk from the bed and breakfast back to the West Highland Way and we welcomed the sunny skies as we started out. The journey typically covers about 7 miles, but our adventure had an unexpected twist that would add both distance and intrigue to our day.
Unexpected Detour: The Alternative Route
As we approached the base of Conic Hill, a focal point of this section, we were met with news that the trail was under maintenance. Rather than viewing this as a setback, we embraced the opportunity to explore an alternative route. This detour took us along quiet country roads and through enchanting stretches of Garadhban Forest, adding an extra mile to our trek but rewarding us with serene woodland views and the chance to experience a less-trodden path.
The alternative route, while longer, offered its own charms. We found ourselves walking through dappled sunlight filtering through the trees, the path soft underfoot with years of fallen leaves. The quiet was punctuated only by birdsong and the occasional rustle of wildlife in the undergrowth.
As we emerged from the forest, the vast expanse of Loch Lomond came into view, a breathtaking sight that signaled our approach to Balmaha. The loch, Scotland’s largest freshwater body, stretched out before us, its surface glittering in the midday sun.
Lunch: Oak Tree Inn
Our destination for both lunch and overnight stay was the renowned Oak Tree Inn. This family-run establishment has been a cornerstone of Balmaha since 1997, growing from a small hotel and bar to a complex that includes a restaurant, cafe, ice cream parlor, and even a village shop. The Inn has garnered numerous awards over the years, recognized for its commitment to local produce and exceptional hospitality.
Famished from our walk, we eagerly settled in for lunch at the Oak Tree Inn. The menu, featuring locally-sourced ingredients, offered a perfect refuel for hungry hikers. As we savored our meals, we couldn’t help but appreciate the Inn’s warm atmosphere and stunning views of the loch.
Afternoon Bliss: Coffee and Loch Lomond
Post-lunch, we discovered our rooms weren’t quite ready. Far from being an inconvenience, this gave us the perfect excuse to fully appreciate our surroundings. We made our way to the shores of Loch Lomond, finding a soft patch of grass to lay upon. Here, we rested our tired feet and allowed the tranquil beauty of the loch to wash over us. The gentle lapping of water against the shore and the distant calls of water birds provided a soothing soundtrack to our relaxation.
Evening Comfort: Back to Oak Tree Inn
As the sun began its descent, we made our way back to the Oak Tree Inn, our home for the night. The convenience of having our accommodation and dinner in the same place was a welcome luxury after a day of walking.
Day 2 Reflections: The Joy of Unexpected Adventures
While our day didn’t go exactly as planned, the alternative route and sunny weather made for an unforgettable experience. The West Highland Way continued to surprise and delight, proving that sometimes the best adventures are the unplanned ones.
Stay tuned for more Scottish hiking adventures!
