During this lovely weather, we took one of our favourite trips. From Arden jetty on the west bank of Loch Lomond we took the ancient ferry across to Inchmurrin island to dine at the excellent Inchmurrin Restaurant.
Having made our booking with the restaurant and arranged the time for the ferry to pick us up in the same phone call, we made our way to Arden Jetty which is close to where the A818 joins the A82. We parked in the small carpark and sat on the jetty to await the arrival of the ferry
As we waited in this wonderful spot we admired the views all around us whilst occasional craft made their way up the loch, including a couple of kayakers. What a perfect location.
After a few minutes wait we could see the ferry approaching from the distance. Soon we are aboard the rudimentary craft and heading to Inchmurrin. The ferry, which dates back to the second world war, is licenced to carry 12 passengers and is run by the restaurant. The minimal fare is added to the bill in the restaurant.
Inchmurrin is an ideal day out from Appletree Cottage as the journey from the luxury self catering Loch Lomond to Arden pier is only twenty minutes or so by car. The name Inchmurrin is gaelic for Round Island.
As we neared the island we could make out details of the few houses as well as the ruined castle on the promontory. In the distance, on the far side of the loch is the distinctive Conic Hill which forms part of the famed and popular West Highland Way - a 96 mile (154 km) long walking route from Milngavie in the north of Glasgow, to Fort William on the west coast.
As we pulled into the jetty by the small harbour we could see the restaurant with its green roof, decked dining areas and picnic tables on the grass. The restaurant used to operate as a hotel but now lets out self catering accommodation on the island. We made our way to the restaurant and were pleased to be allotted a table on the south facing decking. We sat down and enjoyed the view.
The menu in the restaurant was good before but it is now excellent, with a wider choice of fare, excellently presented in a friendly and efficient manner. As we dined we enjoyed watching various private craft arriving and departing the small harbour. Idyllic and peaceful this was the place to be!
After a very pleasant lunch we took the ferry back to Arden. However, on previous occasions we have taken the opportunity to explore this pretty, traffic-free island with its ancient castle and varied architecture.
For more information about Inchmurrin Restaurant and accommodation on the island you can go to: https://www.inchmurrin-lochlomond.com/contact-details/.
Happy voyages!
