Arrochoile Cottage

Arrochoile Cottage Overview

You know what honestly surprised me most about Arrochoile Cottage? It’s how this place manages to feel both completely secluded and surprisingly accessible at the same time. I mean, you’re right there in Balmaha on the shores of Loch Lomond, but when you’re sitting on the cottage’s little terrace with your morning coffee, it feels like you’ve discovered some secret hideaway that nobody else knows about. The drive from Glasgow takes about 45 minutes – actually less if you’re not stuck behind a caravan – and suddenly you’re in this completely different world where the biggest decision you’ll make is whether to take the lakeshore walk before or after breakfast.

The cottage itself is properly Scottish in that unpretentious way that just works. It’s not trying to be some glossy boutique property with marble everything, but rather feels like staying at a friend’s incredibly well-appointed country house. The rooms have this lovely mix of traditional touches and modern comfort – you’ll find proper thick curtains that actually block out light, which is brilliant during those long summer evenings when it stays light until nearly 10 PM. The owner clearly gets what travelers actually need: decent WiFi (surprisingly good for being tucked away like this), proper shower pressure, and beds that don’t creak when you roll over. Small details, but they matter when you’re trying to unwind.

What really sets this place apart is the location on Loch Lomond’s eastern shore. Balmaha village is right there – literally a two-minute walk to the Oak Tree Inn if you fancy a pint and some local gossip – but you’re also perfectly positioned for exploring the loch properly. The West Highland Way passes practically by the front door, so you’ll see hikers with their massive backpacks trudging past in the mornings, which adds to that whole adventurous atmosphere even if you’re just planning a gentle stroll. The cottage sits back from the main road just enough that you don’t get traffic noise, but you can still hear the loch lapping against the shore on quiet evenings. It’s that kind of soothing sound that makes you realize how wound up you were before you arrived. Parking is straightforward too – none of that village nonsense where you’re circling around looking for a space. Honestly, for a place that feels this remote and special, it’s refreshingly practical when it comes to the basics.

Arrochoile Cottage Accommodations

Reviews of Arrochoile Cottage

• Wonderful – Gipsymol from United Kingdom – August 31, 2023 (9/10)

• Wonderful – Anonymous from Germany – August 23, 2023 (9/10)

Surroundings