📌 Port of Menteith, Stirling
★★★★
What’s the only natural lake in Scotland? It’s the Lake of Menteith, with a pleasant surprise waiting for discovery on its main island: a substantial 13th century ruined priory, founded by the Earl of Menteith and once home to a community of Augustinian canons. The lake is part of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, yet seems far removed from busy Aberfoyle, only a few miles distant. The necessary boat trip across the quiet (but blue-green algae infested) waters to reach the island adds to the romance and secluded feel. Before returning to the mainland, don’t forget to explore the rest of the island – cloaked in bluebells or brimming with ripe blackberries in season.
🌍 Location
📌 On the island of Inchmahome, Lake of Menteith
🧭 O.S. Grid Reference: NN 574005
🛰️ GPS coordinates: 56.176187,-4.298088
🚢🚌 Bus to A81 / B8034 junction, then take the ferry from Port of Menteith jetty
🚗 Car park at Port of Menteith jetty, 🧭 NN 583010 / 🛰️ 56.180551,-4.283664, then take the ferry
📝 Key info
⌚ Daily, 29 March to October 2024 – booking ferry recommended
🎫 £10 adult / £6 child including ferry, free for Historic Environment Scotland members
