Local Life - St Helens - March 2020

34
Take the
High Road
By Jess Phillips
Rugged mountain ranges, verdant grasslands and
unblemished lochs – the Scottish Highlands have
it all. With hidden castles and mysterious crags
around every corner, the best way to experience the
landscape is to go and explore it for yourself, just
as Birds of a Feather actress Lesley Joseph did on
Holidaying with Jane McDonald and Friends, opting
to tour the beautiful Loch Lomond, Fort William and
Inveraray.
There’s no place better to get a feel for the
Highlands’ renowned natural beauty than Loch
Lomond and the surrounding Trossachs National
Park. Whether you’re setting up your tent for a
night in the wilderness or heading off to climb
the numerous Munroes for a better view of the
picturesque surroundings, there’s a huge variety of
activities and sights on offer. Start at Inchcailloch
Summit - a small island located on Loch Lomond
and accessible via boat; its woodland is a fantastic
place for wildlife spotting, while the island itself
offers unmarred views across the loch. If you’re
looking for a bit more of a challenge, try Ben More,
the highest Munro in the area at 1,174 metres tall.
Of course, there’s plenty more to do on the bonnie
banks of Loch Lomond after you’ve worn yourself
out walking. Pay a visit to the Birds of Prey Centre,
try kayaking or treat the kids to an adrenalinefuelled
day at the TreeZone Aerial Adventure course.
Gentle boat trips offer an exclusive view of the loch,
with expert guides on hand to provide insight on
the intricate workings of the waterways. Catch a
cruise from Balloch for spectacular introduction
to the southern section of the loch, or from Luss,
Tarbet or Inveruglas to explore the fjord-inspired
northern shores.