Inchcailloch Island, Loch Lomond

Introducing Inchcailloch Island

Nestled within the stunning scenery of Loch Lomond, Inchcailloch Island is a hidden gem offering a tranquil escape into nature. This enchanting island, part of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, is steeped in history, wildlife, and scenic beauty. Once home to a nunnery and later used as a burial ground, Inchcailloch is now a haven for walkers, birdwatchers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Accessible by a short boat trip, the island boasts well-marked trails, a rich array of flora and fauna, and breathtaking views over the loch. Whether you’re exploring its woodland paths, picnicking on the shoreline, or soaking in the serene atmosphere, Inchcailloch promises a memorable day out.

There's something quite magical about Inchcailloch Island. The charm begins when you board the small wooden ferry at Balmaha Boatyard for the short crossing. The ferry from Luss Pier is a longer journey, but the route gets you close to some of the other picturesque islands of Loch Lomond. Portnellan Farm also runs speedboat tours that can include stops at the island.

There is no debate that Inchcailloch is an extraordinary place, arguably perhaps the most beautiful location within the National Park. It is protected as part of the Loch Lomond Nature Reserve and looked after by Scottish Natural Heritage and the National Park Authority. The island is popular but doesn't get too busy even in peak season, especially compared with the departure point villages of Balmaha and Luss.

This blog is an appreciation of Inchcailloch, mainly through a series of photographs and videos captured on many visits to the island. Hopefully, if you haven't, this will encourage you to go and help plan a visit. 

 

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Getting to Inchcailloch Island

Balmaha ferry

Ferry from Balmaha to Inchcailloch Island

Sandy MacFarlane follows in the footsteps of previous generations of his family running the Balmaha Boatyard. With beautiful wooden boats, he operates the iconic island post boat service and the short on-demand ferry trip from the boatyard to the island. 

Sandy MacFarlane of Balmaha Boatyard tells his story on this film, part of the 'Celebrating Park People' series.

Video - Balmaha Boatyard

Ferry from Luss to Inchcailloch Island

Cruise Loch Lomond runs a ferry service from Luss pier (on the west side of Loch Lomond) to Port Bawn at the island's southern end. Check their website for timetables and ticket information.

Luss to Inchcailloch Island cruise 

Port Bawn, Inchcailloch Island  

The central path across Inchcailloch Island to Port Bawn

If you get the ferry from Balmaha, you will land on the north side of the island. As you head across the island, stick to the main path, and at the end of an enjoyable short walk, you will arrive at Port Bawn. Port Bawn has a beautiful sandy beach, BBQ areas, picnic tables and some camping pitches (pre-book from the National Park). 

Bluebells on Inchcailloch Island

Summit Path on Inchcailloch Island

The highest point of the island is 85 metres (279 ft). To get there, climb the summit path, which reminds me of a large, natural spiral staircase. The climb to the top is well worth it as the panoramic view across the loch, islands and Ben Lomond is excellent. 

The Highland Boundary Line that runs from the Isle of Arran in the west of Scotland to Stonehaven in the east cuts across Loch Lomond and the island itself, separating Scotland's lowlands and highlands. You can see this in full effect at the Inchcailloch summit. 

Summit view of Loch Lomond on Inchcailloch Island 

Inchcailloch Island through the seasons

I’ve enjoyed visits to Inchcailloch in all of the seasons. Spring is probably my favourite season, as for part of it (usually mid-May), the island is covered in a thick blanket of bluebells. Autumn is a close contender, though with some vibrant autumnal colours. 

Inchcailloch Island Nature 

Look out for Fallow deer, especially in the mornings and when the island is at its quietest. There are Osprey nests nearby, so keep an eye out for the magnificent birds; you will also see many Dor Beetles on the pathways. Look out, too, for White Butterfly and Wild Geese.

Inchcailloch Island History 

Inchcailloch means the isle of the old woman. The island itself is just 0.19 square miles in size. There was a farm on the island that is now in ruins. For 130 years, there was an oak plantation processed across the water at Balmaha.

Once, parishioners from the mainland took the boat over to their church on the island. The burial ground is worth a visit; as you saw in the film of Sandy MacFarlane’s story, some of his ancestors are buried there. There are also graves for ancestors of Rob Roy MacGregor. 

Walter Scott refers to Inchcailloch in his poem The Lady of the Lake.

“A slender crosslet formed with care
A cubit’s length in measure due
The shafts and limbs were rods of yew
Whose parents in Inch Cailliach wave
Their Shadows o’er Clan Alpine’s grave,
And, answering Lomond’s breezes deep,
Soothe many a chieftain’s endless sleep.”

— Extract from Sir Walter Scott's poem 'The Lady of The Lake'

Photography on Inchcailloch Island

I have had the pleasure of photographing families on Inchcailloch Island. I’ve also taken a few newly married couples on their wedding days to have a few photographs taken on the island. 

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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