Clairinsh

Clairinsh is a small, flat island in Loch Lomond, central Scotland. It lies just east of Inchcailloch and about a kilometre southwest of Balmaha. The island measures roughly 450 metres by 200 metres at its widest and rises only thirteen metres above the water. Seen from above, its outline resembles a fish. The name comes from the Gaelic *Clàr-Innis*, meaning ‘flat island’. The island has a long history tied to Clan Buchanan. In 1225, Maldonus, the Third Mormaer of Lennox, granted Clairinsh to Anselan of Buchanan. The island became the clan’s seat and its slogan, ‘Clàr-Innis!’, was used in battle. Archaeologists have found traces of seven buildings and seven stone jetties. Nearby Keppinch, a man-made island, may have served as the clan’s council meeting place. Today Clairinsh is a protected nature reserve. Since 1940 it has been owned by the Buchanan Society, which keeps it free from shooting. The island shelters birds and animals and was declared part of a National Nature Reserve in 1958. Its flat shape and quiet waters make it a peaceful spot beside Loch Lomond.