Loch Cartach

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Loch Cartach

East coast of Ronay A narrow gap between the tiny island of Eilean na Cloiche [left] and Ronay, leading to a small inlet.
East coast of Ronay Credit: Gordon Hatton

Loch Cartach is a serene freshwater lake located in the picturesque Inverness-shire, Scotland. Spanning an area of approximately 150 acres, it is nestled amidst the rolling hills and breathtaking landscapes that define the region. The loch is situated about 20 miles northeast of Inverness, making it easily accessible for visitors looking to explore its natural beauty.

With its crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere, Loch Cartach is a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, including native trees and shrubs, creating a peaceful and idyllic setting. The shoreline is lined with reeds and grasses, adding to the overall charm of the location.

The diverse ecosystem of Loch Cartach supports a wide range of flora and fauna. The lake is home to various species of fish, including brown trout and pike, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. Birdwatchers can also enjoy sightings of a variety of waterfowl, such as swans, ducks, and herons, which frequent the area.

The surrounding area offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the lake's perimeter, taking in the stunning views and breathing in the fresh, crisp air. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular pastimes on the calm waters of Loch Cartach.

Overall, Loch Cartach is a hidden gem in Inverness-shire, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Its natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and range of outdoor activities make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating experience in the heart of Scotland.

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Loch Cartach Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.475206/-7.1748288 or Grid Reference NF8954. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

East coast of Ronay A narrow gap between the tiny island of Eilean na Cloiche [left] and Ronay, leading to a small inlet.
East coast of Ronay
A narrow gap between the tiny island of Eilean na Cloiche [left] and Ronay, leading to a small inlet.
You are being watched A group [possibly 8] of red deer on the east side of Ronay. Deer are known to swim the sea channels between Ronay, Grimsay and North Uist. Currently, deer are the only large grazing animals on Ronay, there being no sheep on the island in 2010.
You are being watched
A group [possibly 8] of red deer on the east side of Ronay. Deer are known to swim the sea channels between Ronay, Grimsay and North Uist. Currently, deer are the only large grazing animals on Ronay, there being no sheep on the island in 2010.
Small bay on east coast of Ronay Small bay backed by a shallow valley, close to the headland of Rubha Creag Mhic Fhionnlaidh.
Small bay on east coast of Ronay
Small bay backed by a shallow valley, close to the headland of Rubha Creag Mhic Fhionnlaidh.
Eilean an Fheidh There are two red deer hinds on the skyline. Given the name of the island, there should really be just one, but I couldn't arrange that!
Eilean an Fheidh
There are two red deer hinds on the skyline. Given the name of the island, there should really be just one, but I couldn't arrange that!
Wave-washed rocks This is the easternmost extent of Rònaigh.
Wave-washed rocks
This is the easternmost extent of Rònaigh.
A small tide-race by Rònaigh The flow here was slightly intimidating to me in a kayak, but I made it through without harm.
A small tide-race by Rònaigh
The flow here was slightly intimidating to me in a kayak, but I made it through without harm.
Rubha na Rodagrich I'm not sure of the correct spelling of the island's name - the spelling given by the OS is inconsistent with conventional Gaelic orthography.
Rubha na Rodagrich
I'm not sure of the correct spelling of the island's name - the spelling given by the OS is inconsistent with conventional Gaelic orthography.
Kallin Harbour, Grimsay
Kallin Harbour, Grimsay
Kallin Harbour The smaller vessels in the harbour are inshore lobster boats which use creels to trap crabs and lobsters.  The larger vessels are offshore prawn boats which use trawl nets to catch the shellfish.
Kallin Harbour
The smaller vessels in the harbour are inshore lobster boats which use creels to trap crabs and lobsters. The larger vessels are offshore prawn boats which use trawl nets to catch the shellfish.
Cottage on Ronay Ronay
Cottage on Ronay
Ronay
Isle of Ronay View of the Isle of Skye across the Minch.
Isle of Ronay
View of the Isle of Skye across the Minch.
Vallastrome, Kallin The view along the Vallastrome channel towards the biggest hill on the island of Ronaigh. The trig point at 115m can just be seen.
Vallastrome, Kallin
The view along the Vallastrome channel towards the biggest hill on the island of Ronaigh. The trig point at 115m can just be seen.
Coming in to harbour Small fishing boat entering Kallin harbour on a summer evening. This little boat has a 'FY' registration for Fowey in Cornwall, but arrived at Kallin on the back of a lorry. The 'Stelimar'is a local boat based here.
Coming in to harbour
Small fishing boat entering Kallin harbour on a summer evening. This little boat has a 'FY' registration for Fowey in Cornwall, but arrived at Kallin on the back of a lorry. The 'Stelimar'is a local boat based here.
Kallin: the harbour Looking across the harbour from the road above.
Kallin: the harbour
Looking across the harbour from the road above.
Kallin: open-air phone box This telephone box is missing two glass panels and also its roof panel, which is leaning against the wall behind the box.
Kallin: open-air phone box
This telephone box is missing two glass panels and also its roof panel, which is leaning against the wall behind the box.
Kallin Harbour A modernised home for a fishing fleet on Grimsay.
Kallin Harbour
A modernised home for a fishing fleet on Grimsay.
Kallin Harbour
Kallin Harbour
Kallin Harbour Busy (usually) fishing port on Grimsay
Kallin Harbour
Busy (usually) fishing port on Grimsay
Show me another place!

Loch Cartach is located at Grid Ref: NF8954 (Lat: 57.475206, Lng: -7.1748288)

Unitary Authority: Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///volunteered.invent.cadet. Near Balivanich, Na h-Eileanan Siar

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