Loch Tay is 15 miles in length and on average about I mile in width. The loch lies between the village of Killin in the west and Kenmore in the east. The small hamlets of Ardeonaig and Ardtalnaig are found on the south side of the loch whilst on the north side there is the hamlet of Lawers and the small village of Fearnan.
The countryside above the shores of the loch was once home to hundreds of people. Most of these had left by the late 1800’s and all that remains of their communities are the low walls and piles of stones marking the outline of the buildings.
Much further back in time there were dwellings built in the loch and these were known as crannogs. Small “islands” can still be seen today and these are the sites of crannogs – dwellings on artificial islands. Some were also built on wooden stilts and there is a superb reconstruction of one at Acharn, at the eastern end of the loch.
The loch is noted for its salmon fishing and boats and ghillies may be hired locally. Most of the shoreline is difficult to access, except on foot, but this adds to the peace and tranquillity of the area. Short cruises on the loch are available from Killin and Kenmore, Canadian canoes may be hired in Killin and sailing lessons are available at Ardeonaig. Some of the more active and noisier water sports are available at Kenmore.