Loch an Eilein

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

Scotland

Loch an Eilein

Loch Ruadh Loch Ruadh on route to Beinn Mothal. — Loch Ruadh Credit: Rude Health

Loch an Eilein is a picturesque freshwater lake located in the county of Ross-shire, Scotland. Nestled within the enchanting Cairngorms National Park, this natural wonder offers breathtaking scenery and a rich history.

Covering an area of approximately 90 acres, Loch an Eilein is surrounded by dense woodlands, creating a peaceful and secluded atmosphere. The lake itself is known for its crystal-clear waters, reflecting the surrounding landscape and creating a stunning mirror-like effect. It is fed by several small streams and is home to a variety of freshwater fish, including trout.

One of the prominent features of Loch an Eilein is its small island located near its southern shore. This island is home to the ruins of a 13th-century castle, which was once a stronghold of the Earls of Ross. The castle, although in ruins, adds an air of mystery and intrigue to the already captivating scenery.

The lake and its surroundings provide a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The woodlands surrounding Loch an Eilein are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including red squirrels, ospreys, and a variety of woodland birds. The tranquil setting also makes it an ideal spot for leisurely walks, cycling, and picnicking.

Loch an Eilein is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Whether it is exploring the castle ruins, admiring the reflections on the calm waters, or simply immersing oneself in the serene surroundings, Loch an Eilein is a truly remarkable place to visit in Ross-shire.

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Loch an Eilein Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.128586/-6.8226854 or Grid Reference NB1625. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Loch Ruadh

Loch Ruadh on route to Beinn Mothal.

Rude Health

Heading For Loch Ruah

Descending from Coltraiseal Beag heading for Loch Ruadh and then Ben Mohal [Beinn Mothal].

Rude Health

Loch SÃ¹rstabhat at sunset

Although looking almost due north, the sun was setting just off the left of this view, taken after 10 pm (summer time). The sunset hadn't yet developed the spectacular underlit cloudscape that followed 20 minutes or so later, but the little loch caught our eye as we became increasingly distracted from the road looking for a suitable foreground. Fortunately, there are sections of the old road to safely get off the highway and wander about with a camera !

Andy Waddington

Sunset over Loch SÃ¹rstabhat

As the sky cleared from the west, the sun started to underlight the cloud cover as we passed by the upper end of Loch Sùrstabhat. The perspective and the direction of clearance has produced one of those views where the horizon looks tilted one way when seen "broad-brush" but then seems tilted the other way when the water is looked at more closely. I find the effect somewhat disturbing, but have tried to get the real horizon as level as possible. It's not helped by those electric poles all leaning towards the long span of cable across the loch...

Andy Waddington

Section of abandoned road next to the B8011

David Gearing

Loch Surstabhat

A small loch to the north of the B8011. The tiny island helps to identify it.

Gordon Hatton

Old road/new road

The rebuilt B8011 to the right with the original road on the left.

Gordon Hatton

Old and new roads.

looking west along the B8011 in West Lewis with the new twin-track road on the left and the original single track road on the right. At the moment the old road still has a reasonable tarred surface and is used by cyclists and walkers.

Gordon Hatton