A Sunny Start in Balmaha
The day broke with golden sunshine streaming through the windows of the Oak Tree Inn. After a hearty Scottish breakfast that would fuel our journey, we shouldered our packs and set off on Day 3 of our West Highland Way adventure.
Climbing to New Heights: Balmaha’s Farewell View
Leaving the charming village of Balmaha behind, we were immediately greeted by a steep climb. While challenging, the ascent rewarded us with a breathtaking panorama of Loch Lomond stretching out before us.
Photo Opportunity:
The viewpoint just outside Balmaha offers one of the best photo spots on this section of the West Highland Way. Have your camera ready!
Lochside Trail: Nature’s Symphony
As we continued north, the trail hugged the eastern shore of Loch Lomond. The path alternated between peaceful woodland and open stretches, offering ever-changing views of Scotland’s most famous loch.
Lunch with a View
Arriving at Rowardennan, our legs were tired but our spirits high. We made a beeline for the Rowardennan Hotel, where a well-earned lunch awaited us. This historic establishment, dating back to the 1696, seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern comfort. With its prime location at the foot of Ben Lomond, Scotland’s southernmost Munro, the hotel serves as both a perfect lunch stop and an overnight haven for hikers.
The Rowardennan Hotel’s cozy bar, stocked with local whiskies, and its restaurant featuring fresh Scottish fare, provide a taste of Highland hospitality. But it’s the hotel’s sprawling lochside lawn and patio that truly captivate guests, offering unparalleled views of Loch Lomond’s shimmering waters and the distant peaks beyond.
As we savored our lunch on the hotel’s patio, we took time to reflect on the day’s journey. The shimmering waters of Loch Lomond stretched out before us, a testament to the raw beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
Evening Comfort and Cuisine
We checked into our room at the Rowardennan Hotel after lunch. The cozy, well-appointed space offered a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. A hot shower was a welcome luxury for our trail-weary muscles. As the sun began its descent over Loch Lomond, casting a golden glow across the water, we made our way to the hotel’s restaurant for dinner. I couldn’t resist the classic steak and ale pie, a hearty dish that hit all the right notes after a long day of hiking. The rich, savory filling encased in buttery pastry was pure comfort food, complemented perfectly by a pint of local ale.
As we dined, the large windows offered a captivating view of the loch, now painted in twilight hues. The gentle murmur of fellow hikers sharing tales of their day’s adventures created a cheerful atmosphere, reminding us of the camaraderie found on the West Highland Way. With full bellies and content hearts, we retired to our room, eager for a good night’s sleep before the next leg of our journey.
Day 4 Preview:
Day 4 was a challenging but rewarding day as we continued north along Loch Lomond’s eastern shore. The path became more rugged, offering a true Highland hiking experience.
