Aldochlay, Loch Lomond
Aldochlay from the water
Where is Aldochlay?
Aldochlay is a small hamlet south of Luss, on Loch Lomond. We've featured it in two detailed guides to exploring the western shores of Loch Lomond, our A82 road trip guide and one for the West Loch Lomond Cycle Path. Aldochlay also features as part of some water-based guides that include the best views from the water (the picture above is Aldochlay from the water) and our trip around the southern islands of Loch Lomond by motorboat from Portnellan Farm.
You can see the position of Aldochlay on the map below, with its close proximity to Inchtavannach, one of a group of Loch Lomond's islands. The cruise boats go between the islands, known as the Narrows, on their way between Luss and Balmaha, which is a very scenic journey. In addition, you'll often see vans unloading kayaks and canoes at Aldochlay for guided tours of this beautiful part of Loch Lomond.
The location is popular for many people looking to launch their own canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Sadly there is little in the way of parking with a lay-by that is often full. Please don't park in one of the restricted areas around this as it can cause all kinds of problems. I am just as frustrated. I have never been lucky enough to find a space when I've had my kayaks and had to move onto other locations.
Aldochlay Bay
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Where is Aldochlay?
Aldochlay has beautiful cottages, but it was homes on the water that it was famous for, with traditional and colourful houseboats here until the 1970s. The photograph above shows the view across the loch to the islands, with many moorings and a boat club that make use of this sheltered spot.
Beautiful cottages at Aldochlay
Inchtavannach Island
Inchtavannach Island, across Aldochlay Bay, is known as 'The Monk's Island' with the northern summit called Tom-naClag 'The Hill of the Bell' from where the monks rang the bell to summon worshippers for prayer. For photographs taken on this beautiful island do read our guide to the southern islands of Loch Lomond.
Inchtavannach Island, Loch Lomond
Wee Peter at Aldochlay
Just south of Aldochlay, sitting close to shore in Bandry Bay, there is a small stone statue of a child known as ‘Wee Peter’. It is easy to find and lies opposite one of the bookable National Park camping pitches. You’ll ideally need a long lens to get a decent photograph of it.
Naturally, there is a legend surrounding its origin. It is said to have been put there in the 19th century by a local person in memory of a happy childhood at Luss. However, the truth is thought to be a little different, with it being g introduced in 1890 by a local stonemason who found it in a London scrapyard. During winter, it provides a valuable role as a water level gauge.
Wee Peter Statue, Aldochlay
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Plan Your Visit
If you plan to visit Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, consider ordering our book ‘101 things to do in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs’, a photo guidebook of things to do and places to explore. Click here to purchase.
Thanks for reading
Words and photography by Paul Saunders. Visit Paul’s Marketing and Photography websites for details of his services in Scotland.
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