Loch Leathan

Loch Leathan is a freshwater loch on the Isle of Skye in the Highlands. It lies south of the Storr ridge and east of Lochan a’ Bhealaich Bhig. The single-track A855 runs along its northern shore, linking Portree to the Trotternish Peninsula. The loch measures 9.5 km around its winding shoreline and reaches depths of 2.5 km at its longest point. Its surface sits 136 m above sea level, 1.6 km inland from the sea. The loch covers 119.9 ha and contains one small island near its northern end. A dam at the northern tip regulates water levels for the surrounding crofts. Loch Leathan shares its group name, the Storr Lochs, with Loch Fada and two other nearby lochs. All four lie within a few kilometres of the village of Edinbane. Visitors follow the A855 to reach the loch, where a short path leads to the dam. The view across the water takes in the slopes of the Storr and the distant Cuillin range. On calm days the reflections of the hills shimmer on the surface. The surrounding peatlands and heather moor add muted colours to the scene. The island in the loch remains undeveloped, adding to the sense of isolation.