27/05/2026
Some interesting facts about Loch Lomond.
5 fascinating facts about Loch Lomond’s islands 🏝️
Stretching 24 miles, Loch Lomond is dotted with 22 islands and 27 islets — each with its own story. Here are five to spark your curiosity:
1. A Gaelic influence
Many island names begin with “Inch”, from the Gaelic word innis, meaning island — a reminder of the area’s deep linguistic roots.
2. Where Highlands meet Lowlands
The Highland Boundary Fault cuts right through islands like Inchcailloch, Torrinch, Creinch and Inchmurrin. Want the best view? Head up Conic Hill from Balmaha to see this dramatic divide for yourself.
3. Britain’s biggest freshwater island
Inchmurrin holds the title as the largest island in a freshwater loch in Great Britain.
4. A historic island community
Inchcailloch means “island of the old women”, believed to refer to a nunnery founded by St Kentigerna.
5. An island of legends and wildlife
Inchlonaig, or “island of the yew trees”, is said to have been planted on the orders of Robert the Bruce for bow-making timber — and today it’s a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Do you have a favourite Loch Lomond island? Let us know below!
