Lake of Menteith - Port of Menteith

The Lake of Menteith is the only natural expanse of water in Scotland usually to be called a lake. Known as the Loch of Menteith until the 19th century, its modern name may be a Victorian alteration reflecting its 'English' parkland setting.

The lake is drained southeastwards towards the River Forth by the Goodie Water and on its northeast shore is the village of Port of Menteith.

Its two principal islands are Inchmahome, on which stand the remains of a Augustinian priory built in 1238, and Inchtalla, a castle island of the former Earls of Menteith.

The lake, which is stocked with trout, is favoured for angling competitions and in winter, when the ice if thick enough, it is the venue for traditional outdoor curling competitions or 'bonspiels'. Held under the auspices of the Royal Caledonian Curling Club, the last formal Bonspiel was held in 1979. Safety concerns prevented a repeat in 2010, and it would seem unlikely that modern regulations will permit any future events.

Laicho Menteith, where 'laich' simply means 'low place'