2nd Saturday Paddle 11th July 2026 – Balloch to Inchmurrin, Inchcaillach for lunch. Then south to shore near Portnellan farm and back to Balloch.
Leigh E.
Lead by Sandy – Paddlers: Hannah, Mags, Siubhan, James, Zoe, Leigh.
Originally planned as a jaunt from Helensburgh on to Kilcreggan and as far as we could get up Loch Long – the winds changed Sandy’s plans and so the paddle was moved to Loch Lomond.
Beaufort 3 westerly winds, with stronger gusts and the odd white horse appearing. Grey skies and about 20 deg C.
We set off from the River Leven, up the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, crossing to Inchmurrin. The wind and waves made for an entertaining choppy paddle, keeping everyone alert – and me smiling. We had a brief stop at the north-eastern tip of Inchmurrin for a break and a nibble of food. The women chatted about relief zips – the conclusion was reached – ‘men have it easy’. Zoe explained we were on the Highland Boundary Fault, extending from Stonehaven to Clew Bay in Ireland.
On we went to Inchcailloch and stopped in the bay on the southern side for lunch, perched on a handy tree trunk. James seemed happy with his knock-off Aldi/Lidl Twix. All very chilled.
Leaving our lunch spot we headed back towards Inchmurrin, and then crossed back towards the eastern shore of Loch Lomond. The wind had picked up slightly, and we were paddling beam on to the waves – a new experience for me. Fun! As we headed further south we entered a more sheltered area and things calmed down, leaving us with a gentle and convivial return to the River Leven.
Total distance travelled was about 16.5km according to Sandy.
A mellow, sociable and enjoyable paddle was had by all.
Thanks to Sandy for organising.