Hollybank is the perfect place to observe the beautiful nature and wildlife of Loch Lomond. Surrounded by woodlands, mountains, tranquil lochs and glens alongside the rocky coastline of the loch, the Trossachs National Park area is brimming with life.
This area offers a variety of habitats for all types of wildlife. For those prepared to explore, you may encounter majestic golden eagles soaring above, or catch sight of a hunting otter along the shores whilst out walking.
East:
The month of May is a fantastic time to visit the east side of Loch Lomond as the woodland floor is carpeted in swathes of bluebells, and you may also spot red squirrels in the conifer trees especially near Conic Hill.
Birdlife flourishes on the loch island of Inchcailloch and in the summer includes bird species such as blackcap, willow warbler, and chiffchaff. You may also catch a glimpse of the elusive fallow deer that live on the island.
Further north up the lochside is Cashel – The Forest for a Thousand Years Project. A number of way-marked trails weave through the woodland.
Visit Ben Lomond in autumn and you may hear red deer stags roar during the rutting season or spot a Ptarmigan bird camouflaged against the mountain near the summit.
The famous West Highland Way also runs through this area and forms a great path for exploring the woodlands along the loch shore.
West:
The West Loch Lomond Cycle Path follows the route of the Drovers from Balloch to Tarbet in the Highlands. It passes a number of landscapes with woodland and open parkland and catches glimpses of Loch Lomond. Barn owls may be seen hunting over some of the open areas at dusk, and look out for kingfishers and dippers as you cross one of the rivers entering the loch from the hills to the west.
South:
To the south of Loch Lomond near Gartocharn village is the RSPB Loch Lomond Reserve. In the summer months, redstarts and wood warblers can be seen in the woods with ospreys feeding in the loch. In winter, the reserve is home to Greenland white-fronted and pink-footed geese.
