Within the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park there are 22 lochs, one lake (Scotland’s only natural lake too!) and countless lochans (small lochs). All are suitable for water sports though care should be taken at Lake of Menteith (where there is a fishery) and Loch Katrine (where boat cruises operate - use the Stronachlachar end). Loch Lomond is the most famous and busiest and again pay attention to other users which can include speedboats and jet ski's.
Within a short drive of the Black Bull are many of the best of these lochs for water sports. Do pay attention to the usual health & safety tips - watch the weather and water temperature, use a buoyancy aid and try not to go out alone. But do have fun.
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Water
If you have brought your own equipment then you have the pick of these lochs to play in - a quick google search will give you insight as to where is best to launch from. If you were to ask us for a recommendation then it would need to be Loch Chon for paddle boarding, kayaking or even swimming. Why ? Well, firstly its less well known and therefore slightly quieter. Secondly, at the south end there is a car park that leads onto a small beach and a shallow launch area which is excellent for beginners, Finally, the shallow launch area sits in a sheltered part of the loch and even on a windy day, the water remains relatively calm. Like all the lochs, the scenery is stunning - quite honestly you can't make a bad decision in choosing a loch. A close second in our personal favourites would be Loch Ard with the beautiful island of Eilan Gorm in the heart of the loch.
Equipment
If you don't have your own equipment heres where you can rent
Trossachs Paddleboard Hire is based at the Aizle, about 5 miles south of the Black Bull Gartmore. But if you are staying at the Black Bull then the equipment can be delivered and collected from the hotel at no extra charge saving you a trip (just advise when booking). The paddleboards are inflatable and pack away to the size of a medium size rucksack so several can fit in the boot of any car. The hire charge is for the entire day and you are free to take the equipment to any stretch of water you choose.
Loch Ard Adventure Centre is based at Kinlochard, and offers a range of activities including paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, bushcraft, axe throwing and archery.
Loch Lomond Leisure is based at Luss, and offers a range of activities including paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, boat hire, water skiing, wake boarding, boat tours, ringo rides and bike hire.
In Your Element offers activities at Loch Lubnaig for private groups including paddle boarding, canoeing, gorge walking, archery, axe throwing, bushcraft and high wire activities.