A Simple Guide To Luss: Loch Lomond’s Perfect Village

If you’re heading to Loch Lomond during a trip to Scotland, then there’s a good chance you’ll be visiting Luss village. This wee place is one of the prettiest in Scotland, with perfectly pruned gardens lining the quiet streets. Take two steps away from the carefully manicured streets though and you’re surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

It’s by no means the biggest place in Scotland, but there are more things to do in Luss than you might expect. From Vikings to fairies, boat trips to bonnie banks, there’s a lot of history in this idyllic village. To make the most of your visit, you’ll find everything you need to know in this simple guide to Luss.

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How To Get To Luss

You’ll find Luss nestled in beside Loch Lomond, not far off the main A82 road. It’s the perfect stopping point to stretch the legs whether you’re heading north to Skye or west toward Loch Fyne. Surrounded by mountains and a particularly large body of water, there aren’t many options for how to get to Luss!

The easiest way by far is to drive and Luss has a large car park which you’re encouraged to use instead of clogging up the streets. It should take you about 45 minutes from Glasgow or 2 hours from Edinburgh.

If you’re taking public transport then you’re only option is the bus with Citylink services from Glasgow as well as the local 305 from Alexandria.

Explore The Streets Of Luss

Something as simple as “explore the streets” might not sound like one of the most exciting things to do in Luss! Trust me, once you’ve arrived at this lochside village, it will all make sense. Most of the cottages were built in the 1800s to house slate quarry workers, but the village goes back a lot further than that!

Legend has it that in the 14th century, a visiting French noble fell in love with a local girl. He whisked her away to life somewhere a little sunnier but on her deathbed she asked to be buried back home. Following her wishes, he made another trip to Luss and laid her to rest, scattering Fleur de Lys on the grave. They took root and eventually gave their name to the village.

Whether that local legend is true or not, you will notice plenty of beautiful flower displays as you wander the streets of Luss. If you want a simple walking guide to Luss, then have a look at this heritage trail!

Admire The Views From Luss Pier

It really wouldn’t be a visit to Luss without setting your eyes on Loch Lomond! Head down to the waterfront and take in the dramatic view from the pier. You can see right up the Loch towards Ben Lomond and if you’re thinking of hiking your first Munro then that’s not a bad nearby option.

Stop in at the Highland Art Studios to browse their crafts and gifts. On a particularly hot day, I picked up some dog ice cream there for Molly before we took a dip in the water. You can walk along the shore in either direction, maybe litter picking as you go. Or just sit and enjoy the view on the bonnie bonnie banks of Loch Lomond!

On a warm summer’s day, expect to find the small beaches here filled with Scots making their own daytrip to Luss. It’s a popular spot for sunbathing, paddling and for kids to jump off the end of the pier! Be warned though, even on the hottest of days the temperature in Loch Lomond is icy cold.

Cruise Loch Lomond From Luss

Since you’re already down at the pier in Luss, Loch Lomond is just one boat ride away. There are a few different options for you to choose from, with a few different tour companies or destinations. My top recommendation, not just for things to do in Luss but as a daytrip anywhere in Scotland, is to head to Inchcailloch Island.

Molly and I did this trip with Cruise Loch Lomond in 2022 and it’s one of my favourite ever daytrips. We got an entertaining commentary as the boat slowly plodded past different islands in the loch. Unfortunately we didn’t spot the wallabies, but we did get a peek at the resident ospreys!

Once we arrived at Inchcailloch Island, we hiked to the historic Clan MacGregor graveyard. Then it was time to take in some beautiful, scenic views. After a picnic and a paddle down by the beach, we were picked up again by Cruise Loch Lomond and head back to Luss.

Find The Viking Gravestone

Back on dry land, no guide to Luss would be complete without a visit to Luss Parish Church. I’m not trying to convert you, but this spot is special for two reasons. The first is found in the graveyard, known as the Viking gravestone or Hogback and it’s around 900 years old.

These are incredibly rare, carved into the shape of a Scandinavian Longhouse with intricate designs along the side and what look like roof shingles on top. It’s like a blend of cultures, with the stone carving skills of the Scots meeting a Norse design.

The other reason to stop here is to see inside the church itself! A very early chapel is believed to have been founded here by St Kessog around 1500 years ago. This current church dates to 1875, built by the local Colquhoun laird to commemorate his father’s death on the loch. Look up and you’ll notice the roof looks like an upturned boat.

Discover The Loch Lomond Faerie Trail

If you’ve got children to keep entertained, then head to the Loch Lomond Faerie Trail. Take a walk through the woodland around Luss, searching for Scottish fairies which shouldn’t be too hard to find. It’s primarily aimed at children between the ages of 3 and 10, but that doesn’t mean we can’t all enjoy it!

They’ll hunt for clues left behind by the fairies and solve little puzzles. Look for secret doorways, listen for fairies chattering away and expect a magical experience. It should take anywhere between one and three hours to explore the faerie trail.

You can find the silver trailer selling tickets in the main Luss car park. It’s open between 9.30am and 3.30pm most days during the tourist season and wellies or firm boots are advised. There is a festive version of the route available during December as well, just make sure you wrap up warm!

A brand new add on is the Faerie Tale Farm which is included in the price of your ticket. You’ll find Highland Cows, Alpacas, Donkeys and more to finish off your day exploring Luss.

Places To Eat In Luss

For a small village, you’ll find plenty of places to eat in Luss.

The Village Rest – The most popular place to eat in Luss is easily the Village Rest, serving from breakfast and lunch as well as a takeaway menu. Dog friendly and delicious food.

Sassenach Coffee – If you need a coffee and cake to perk you up before you wander the streets, you’ll find the excellent Sassenach Coffee van in the main car park!

Loch Lomond Arms – Another option for lunch or an evening meal is the Loch Lomond Arms, serving a large menu including very traditional Scottish food!

Coach House Coffee Shop – For soups, coffee and cakes in a very dog friendly spot, head to the Coach House Coffee Shop!

Places To Stay In Luss

Why not turn your daytrip into a whole weekend by finding a place to stay in Luss?

Loch Lomond Arms – Back to the Loch Lomond Arms, this 200 year old inn is a great, central place to stay!

Alderdale B&B – If you enjoyed the look of all the quaint cottages in Luss, then how about staying in one of them?

Cameron House Hotel – Looking for some 5* luxury accommodation? Look no further than Cameron House Hotel, just a short trip along the banks of Loch Lomond.

Luss Campsite – If you want the other end of the luxury scale, pitch your tent or caravan at Luss Campsite. Just be aware that it’s not far from the main road.

If these locations have caught your interest, how about visiting them on a Scotland’s Stories Tour?

Just click this link to make an enquiry and book your private driving tour today!

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