Rest and Be Thankful, Arrochar

Arrochar

Scotland's Adventure Coast

Located on the head of Loch Long, the village of Arrochar is where Loch Lomond National Park meets Argyll Forest Park. It can easily be reached from Glasgow and Scotland’s Central Belt by car and public transport, making it a fantastic base for an active weekend exploration for all ages and abilities.

Surrounded by the majestic mountain range known as ‘Arrochar Alps’, this is a hotspot for walkers, mountaineers and cyclists seeking a memorable outdoor adventure. Popular walks in the area include Ben Arthur (also known as ‘The Cobbler), the Loch Lomond and Cowal Way (90km) and Three Lochs Way (52km), which both pass through Arrochar.

You can also find plenty of restaurants, cafes and accommodations in and around Arrochar.

Arrochar in Scottish Gaelic

The Scottish Gaelic of Arrochar is An t–Àrchar or An Tairbeart Iar.

The origin of this name probably stems from the Gaelic word arachor, which is an ancient Scottish measurement of land equal to 104 acres. Why 104 acres? Because it was the area of land that eight oxen could plough in a year!

Explore the Arrochar Alps

A haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and the gateway to the Argyll Forest Park.

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Good to Know!

A Village Steeped in Viking History

The area surrounding Arrochar and Tarbet has a rich Viking history. In 1263, the followers of King Haakon IV sailed from Norway to Scotland, making their way down Loch Long and anchoring in Arrochar. From here, they dragged their ships over the narrow isthmus from Arrochar to Tarbet to set sail and raid settlements along the shores of Loch Lomond. Upon returning to Arrochar with their loot, a great storm destroyed all Viking boats. King Haakon IV later lost against the Scots at the Battle of Largs.

How many Munros are in the Arrochar Alps?

You can also find four Munros in the Arrochar Alps: Beinn Ime, Beinn Narnain, Ben Vane, and Ben Vorlich. However, the most popular – and distinctive – peak in the range is not one of the Munros, but a Corbett called ‘The Cobbler’ or Ben Arthur. The majority of hill walks are for experienced walkers. However, the Arrochar Alps are part of Argyll’s Forest Park, the first forest park created in the UK. So, there are plenty of gentler forest trails and mountain biking routes to explore!

How far is Arrochar from Glasgow?

Arrochar is approximately an hour's drive from Glasgow (41 miles) via the A82 & A83. It can also be accessed via train and public buses.

Where to park in Arrochar?

You can find two privately operated car parks on the south side of the village of Arrochar. If you're planning to explore the surrounding woodlands, the car park on the west provides easier access. However, both car parks are connected via footpaths away from the main road.

Things to See & Do in Arrochar

Take a wander through peaceful woodlands, climb craggy peaks or bike along exhilarating forest trails.

Walks in Arrochar

Walk the famous Cobbler (Ben Arthur)

With its distinctive rocky summit that’s supposed to look like a cobbler hammering at a shoe, Ben Arthur (2946 ft) is the most popular hill walk in the Arrochar Alps. The 5.5-mile-long walk can take between 4 to 6 hours, depending on fitness level and conditions. Although path conditions have improved, it is still a serious climb up to the top with scrambling and exposed paths along the way. However, the hard work is rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Loch Long and the Arrochar Alps.

Gentler walks around Arrochar

You can find an abundance of gentler strolls along Loch Long and Croe Waters, as well as forest trails in the surrounding area. Popular ones include:

Arrochar to Robert's Bridge: This walk from the Three Villages Community Hall is an excellent way to quickly access grand views down Loch Long and over to the fabulous western peaks of the Arrochar Alps.
Cruach Tairbeirt: Follow the path of the 13th-century Viking invaders from Arrochar to Tarbert. Ancient woodlands, spectacular views and quiet trails make for the perfect peaceful day out.
A walk around Glen Loin: This 11-mile loop runs through the glens and corries to the north of Arrochar, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Discover Argyll Forest Park

Argyll Forest Park is the UK's first Forest Park, established in 1935! With its craggy peaks and peaceful glens, it caters to walkers, hillwalkers and cyclists of all levels. Here are some sites near Arrochar that are worth exploring:

Ardgartan: Famous for its extensive mountain biking network, the forest of Ardgartan are a stunning mix of tree-lined river banks, tumbling waterfalls and peaceful forest trails. Head for a walk along the Croe Water ('Riverside Trail') where otters play on the banks and blue bells drape the forest floor in spring.
Honeymoon Bridge: Located at the base of beautiful Glen Croe, below the famous Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint, Honeymoon Bridge makes for the perfect picnic spot or starting point for our forest walk.
Spot local Wildlife: We recommend looking up once in a while when exploring the Arrochar Alps – You may be lucky enough to see a golden eagle soaring over you! You can also spot red deer on the hillsides and a wide arrange of birds.

Rest and Be Thankful

If you're staying around Arrochar, make sure to stop by the famous rest stop 'Rest and Be Thankful' along the A83. It marks the highest point on the road, between Glen Kinglas and Glen Croe, making it a fantastic spot to take a break and enjoy the views.

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Places to Eat & Stay

Stay a little longer to explore the stunning surrounding landscapes of Arrochar & Loch Lomond National Park.

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How to get to Arrochar

By Car

If travelling by car to Arrochar, follow the A82 along the western side of Loch Lomond as far as Tarbet. From here, head west on the A83 to Arrochar. Make sure to stop by Luss on the way!

By Train

The world-famous West Highland Line runs along Loch Lomond. Recognised as one of the world's most scenic railways, it also stops at Helensburgh, Garelochhead, Arrochar/Tarbet and Ardlui on its way north, providing good access to the western and northern parts of Loch Lomond.

By Bike

If you are feeling active, why not try the Clyde and Loch Lomond Cycleway. This popular route takes you from Glasgow to Loch Lomond along former railway lines and canal towpaths. Alternatively, the West Loch Lomond Cycle Path is a popular route that runs north from Balloch along the loch for 27km to Tarbet and then further on to Arrochar. From here, you can catch a train back to Glasgow and the central belt of Scotland.

Places to visit near Arrochar

Don't miss out on these charming villages and towns on the shores of Loch Lomond and beyond.

LUSS

The historic conservation village of Luss is a popular stopping-off point for visitors or a base for exploring the Loch Lomond area.

Explore

HELENSBURGH & CLYDE SEA LOCHS

Helensburgh is a vibrant town which enjoys an enviable position within easy reach of Glasgow and even Edinburgh, whilst also being situated on the Clyde Sea Lochs.

Explore

TYNDRUM & BRIDGE OF ORCHY

Tyndrum is a small village north of Loch Lomond and is an important staging post to head west to Oban, Lorn & the Isles.

Explore

Looking for more inspiration?

Head to our blog for more information about things to see & do around Arrochar.

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