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Islands of Loch Lomond

Visiting the Islands of Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is the largest lake by surface area in Great Britain. Within it, there are 23 islands to discover, plus several more islets. Some are very small and best viewed from the loch’s shores or waters. While others are larger and great to visit and explore.  Here’s our guide to the islands of Loch Lomond …

List of Loch Lomond’s islands

Aber Isle, Buchinch, Ceardach, Clairinch, Creinch, Eilean Nan Deargannan, Ellanderroch, Fraoch Eilean, Inchcailloch, Inchconnachan, Inchcruin, Inchfad, Inchgalbraith, Inchlonaig, Inchmoan, Inchmurrin, Inchtavannach, Inveruglas Isle, Island I Vow, Ross Islands, Tarbet Isle, Torrinch, Wallace’s Isle.

The islands mostly have Gaelic names. And you’ll notice that many have “Inch” at the beginning or end, which means island. “Eilean” is a more modern version, also meaning island.

Islands accessible by ferry

Inchcailloch – This is one of the most easily accessible islands of Loch Lomond, with a ferry service available from Balmaha. Part of the Loch Lomond Nature Reserve, its abundant wildlife includes otters, deer and many birds. The name Inchcailloch means “island of the old woman”, after St Kentigerna, who is said to have lived there as a hermit in the 8^th century.

Inchmurrin – This island is also accessible by ferry, with a service running from the jetty at Arden. It’s the largest of the islands, with a number of historical sites, such as the ruins of Lennox Castle and a 7th century monastery.

Cruise Loch Lomond

A great way to see the islands of Loch Lomond is from the water. Cruise Loch Lomond offers a range of cruises across the loch, including the Island Explorer. This sails from Luss, passing many of the islands and making a stop at Inchcailloch.

Views from above

Or, if you prefer to stay on dry land, climb up Conic Hill or Duncryne Hill for incredible views of the loch and its islands.