Tarbert, Loch, East and West, two indentations of the sea on the opposite coasts of Harris, approaching each other to within ¼ mile. (See Harris.) - East Loch Tarbert is 5¼ miles long, and from 4½ to nearly 2 miles broad. Forking at the head into two slender bays, it embosoms several islets, and has the considerable island of Scalpa at its entrance. West Loch Tarbert is 6 miles long, and diminishes in breadth from 4½ miles to nearly a point; it is screened from the fierce W winds by Taransay; and it is overhung by lofty mountains, which stoop precipitously down to its margin.

(F.H. Groome, Ordnance Gazetteer of Scotland (1882-4); © 2004 Gazetteer for Scotland)