Where to find Highland cows near Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond Highland Cows

Surely everybody wants to see a Highland cow on their visit to Scotland! These hairy coos have become a national icon with fans all over the world. With their long locks and curvy horns, they are a distinctive breed of cattle. Being both cute and friendly in nature, they are popular with tourists. Today we’re sharing our favourite places to find Highland cows near Loch Lomond and The Trossachs. So make sure you look out for them during your next stay at Loch Lomond Waterfront.

Places to spot Highland cows

In Scotland, you’ll come across Highland cows wherever you go. When travelling through rural areas, be sure to check the fields as you pass. They are often just grazing and minding their own business in the beautiful countryside. But if you’re looking for specific places where Highland cows are often spotted, here are a few near Loch Lomond and the Trossachs to get you started.

A herd of Highland cows on Conic Hill in Balmaha, Loch Lomond
Highland cows are often found grazing on Conic Hill in Balmaha by Loch Lomond.

Conic Hill

Conic Hill car park is just a short walk from Loch Lomond Waterfront. From here you can enjoy one of the best walks in the area. Climb Conic Hill for remarkable views over Loch Lomond. There’s a good chance of spotting Highland cows on your way up too!

Conic Hill is 361m high, and can be a bit of a steep and challenging climb at times. However if you are feeling up for it, this is a wonderful hill to explore, offering stunning views. Highland cows aren’t the only annimals you might see here. Keep an eye out for deer too, as well as buzzards in the skies above.

Drymen Show

If you’re with us on the last Saturday in May, you’re in luck! The Drymen Show is usually in town on this day each year. This is our local agricultural show and a great family day out, featuring livestock displays (including Highland cows) and a range of entertainment.

The Drymen show offers plenty of activities including a fun fair, trade stands, main ring attractions and pet and craft tents. Vintage cars, horse stunt teams and police dog displays have always proven popular at this show. Take a look at their website to see what’s planned.

Loch Lomond Arms

On the other side of the loch in Luss, the Loch Lomond Arms has its own Highland cows and calves in the garden. So if you pop across there for a pub meal, you might just get to meet them!

Loch Achray

Loch Achray is a small loch in the heart of the Trossachs, located near the town of Callendar. It’s a prime spot for finding Highland cows. If you are keen to get in a spot of angling on your break, alongside some Highland Cow spotting, then this is the place for you. Its calm waters and sheltered location mean brown trout are regularly caught, alongside the occasional sea trout, pike, perch and salmon. Good luck!

Trossachs Woollen Mill

The Trossachs Woollen Mill in Kilmahog has a lovely cafe and a great shop for gifts and souvenirs. With the added bonus of its own resident Highland cows, which graze in the field outside. Hamish Dubh, Honey and Holly can be fed with specially prepared food, available in the shop. You can even pick up a cuddly Highland cow to take home with you to remember them!

Stirling Castle

If you take a day trip to Stirling, look for Highland cows in the fields below Stirling Castle. What a stunning backdrop for these mighty beasts! Stirling Castle is such an iconic sight in this area, that a visit is definitely justified.

Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most spectacular and historically significant sites. It sits on top of a volcanic rock, with stunning views around Stirlingshire. It has played a pivotal role in Scotland’s history, enduring at least 16 sieges and witnessing key battles. Scottish kings and queens were crowned, lived, and even met their deaths here, including Mary de Guise and James IV, V, and VI. The castle’s highlights include the Great Hall, the Chapel Royal and the Palace, alongside extensive outer defences. Many interactive maps and exhibitions bring its rich past to life, and is great for all the family.

A herd of Highland cows  in field beneath Stirling Castle
A herd of Highland cows graze in the fields below Stirling Castle

We hope you enjoy Highland cow spotting on your next stay with us at Loch Lomond Waterfront. If you need anything at all during your visit, please just ask. We love to chat and are happy to advise on the best things to see and do in the area. You can also find more attractions and activities to keep you busy in our Things to do guide.

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