The picturesque West Highland village of Arrochar has a rich heritage, as well as spectacular surroundings. The name Arrochar is believed to come from a Gaelic and Irish corruption of the Latin word aratrum, or plough and carrucate which was a measure of land between 100 and 160 acres, representing the land which could be worked by one plough team in a year.
Arrochar was the traditional seat of the clan MacFarlane, infamous as cattle thieves, but also known as heroic defenders of their royal family. However, when the MacFarlanes fell on hard times,their lands were eventually sold to the neighbouring Colquhouns. The chief's home at Invereoch was renamed Arrochar House and now forms part of the Claymore Hotel.
Four hotels, several self-catering establishments, and many bed and breakfast businesses are indicative of the area's attraction to visitors, who are drawn to the area by its spectacular scenery, to enjoy climbing and walking in the hills, taking to the water in kayaks or leisure boats, and to explore the rich natural and cultural heritage of the area. The close proximity to Glasgow, Stirling and Oban, with ease of access to the Western Isles, marks Arrochar as a hub for visitors to the area.
Facilities in the village include a petrol station with a snack bar, a post office and newsagents, a pottery and craft gallery, three licensed grocers, and a model shop and greengrocers. The 3 Villages Cafe adjacent to the Hall offers sit-in and takeaway options, while the Village Inn has well renowned bar and restaurant facilities, and Ben Arthur's Bothy offers a lively atmosphere and good local 'craic'.
The Church of Scotland Arrochar Parish Church has services every Sunday at 10am, while the Roman Catholic Chapel of St Peter and Paul has services at 8.30am between Easter and October and 12.30pm from October until Easter.
