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Luss is situated on the western shores of Loch Lomond and was originally known as Clachan Dubh, 'the dark village'.
This is because of its mountain setting, the shade from the mountain means that there are less hours of daylight, in the winter time
this is particularly noticeable. Luss is said to be derived from the gaelic 'Lus' (meaning a plant), though some believe that it is derived
from the French word 'Luce', meaning 'Lily'. Luss is perhaps most famous for appearing as a backdrop in television programmes, most notably
the Scottish Soap Opera 'Take The High Road'.
Settlements have existed in this area since ancient times, there are clues that the Viking Haekon of Norway plundered Luss, as their longboats
were docked at Arrochar and Tarbet in 1263. An 11th Century Viking Hog-backed grave stone can be found in the churchyard of Luss Church.
In recent times, Luss can be distinguished by the cottages that were originally built house workers in the cotton mill and slate quarries of the
18th and 19th centuries. These were erected by the local land owners the Colquhons, who lived nearby in Rossdhu Castle. Luss is now a conservation village
and the cottages have been fully restored.
Luss continues to be a popular tourist attraction, in addition to the famous village itself, Luss Pier boasts stunning views of Ben Lomond. This
is Scotlands most southernly 'Munro' (meaning an individual Mountain over 3000 feet high).
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