Arrochar sits just west of Loch Lomond at the head of Loch Long, a sea loch that reaches in from the Clyde. Cross the narrow neck of land from Tarbet and the landscape changes character completely: this is the edge of the Arrochar Alps, a knot of craggy peaks that feel far higher and wilder than their modest heights suggest.
The village itself is a strung-out row of houses, hotels and a couple of cafes along the shore — pleasant enough, but most people come for one reason: to climb the jagged peak looming across the water, Ben Arthur, better known as The Cobbler.
Loch Long and the village
Loch Long is a genuine arm of the sea, so at Arrochar you get tidal water, seaweed on the shore and views down a steep-sided fjord-like loch. It makes an atmospheric contrast to the fresh water of Loch Lomond just over the hill. The village has a handful of hotels, a fish-and-chip stop and roadside parking with a view straight across to The Cobbler — a fine place to pause even if you are not walking.
The Cobbler
The Cobbler is one of the most loved hills in southern Scotland, and its rocky triple summit is instantly recognisable. The path starts from the car park on the Loch Long shore and climbs steadily through forest before opening onto the corrie beneath the peaks — reckon on around 5 to 6 hours for the round trip, and treat it as a proper mountain day.
The true summit involves threading through a gap in the rock and an exposed scramble that stops many walkers; you do not have to do it to enjoy the hill, and the view from just below is superb. Take map, layers, food and boots, and check the forecast — the weather here turns quickly.
Where to eat
Options in Arrochar are limited but welcome after a hill day. There are hotel bars and restaurants along the loch serving standard hearty fare, and a village chip shop. Many walkers drive the few minutes back over to Tarbet or on toward Luss for more choice, but a pint looking across at the peak you have just climbed is hard to beat.
Getting to Arrochar
- Car: about an hour from Glasgow via the A82 and A83; free-ish roadside and car-park parking near the Cobbler path.
- Train: Arrochar & Tarbet station is on the scenic West Highland Line from Glasgow — one of the few loch-area spots reachable by rail.
- The station sits between Arrochar and Tarbet, roughly a mile from each.
- Start the Cobbler early; the walk is long and the car park fills on fine weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is climbing The Cobbler?
It is a strenuous mountain walk of around 5 to 6 hours return, with a steady climb to the corrie and steep ground near the top. The very summit needs an exposed scramble through a rock window, which many walkers skip while still enjoying the hill.
Where does the walk up The Cobbler start?
From the car park on the shore of Loch Long at Arrochar. The path climbs through forest before emerging beneath the peaks of Ben Arthur.
Can you reach Arrochar by train?
Yes. Arrochar & Tarbet station sits on the West Highland Line from Glasgow, making it one of the few Loch Lomond–area spots you can reach directly by rail. It is about a mile from the village.
Is Arrochar on Loch Lomond?
Arrochar is just west of Loch Lomond, at the head of the sea loch Loch Long, a short drive over the narrow neck of land from Tarbet. It is usually visited together with the loch.
