An Àird

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Inverness-shire

Scotland

An Àird

Sotun Summit, Berneray/Bearnaraigh A five island expedition from Castlebay on Boy James. This is a picture of the misty grassy summit of Berneray/Bearnaraigh called Sotan. Although a rock 2 metres north of lighthouse perimeter wall at NL 54867 80229 is highest point but not yet officially ratified.
Name: Sotan
Hill number: 1632
Height: 193m / 633ft
Area: 24D: Barra to Barra Head
Class: Ma,1
Grid ref: NL 55353 79980
Summit feature: no feature
Drop: 193m
Col: Sea — Sotun Summit, Berneray/Bearnaraigh Credit: Rude Health

An Àird is a prominent coastal feature located in Inverness-shire, Scotland. Situated on the western coast of the country, it is a headland that juts out into the North Atlantic Ocean. This rugged and picturesque point offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and nearby islands.

The terrain of An Àird is characterized by steep cliffs, which provide a dramatic backdrop against the crashing waves below. The headland is covered in lush vegetation, including grasses, heather, and various wildflowers, adding to its natural beauty. The area is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and occasionally dolphins, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching and marine life observation.

An Àird is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Visitors can explore the headland by following well-marked trails that wind their way around the coastline. These paths offer stunning panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscape, providing ample opportunities for photography and relaxation.

For history enthusiasts, An Àird also holds significance. The area is dotted with remnants of ancient settlements and archaeological sites, including Iron Age forts and burial mounds. These historical landmarks offer a glimpse into the rich past of the region, adding an additional layer of intrigue to the natural beauty of the headland.

In conclusion, An Àird in Inverness-shire is a captivating coastal feature that combines stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and a rich historical heritage. Its rugged cliffs, picturesque trails, and archaeological sites make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of Scotland's western coast.

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An Àird Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.785691/-7.6166401 or Grid Reference NL5780. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Sotun Summit, Berneray/Bearnaraigh

A five island expedition from Castlebay on Boy James. This is a picture of the misty grassy summit of Berneray/Bearnaraigh called Sotan. Although a rock 2 metres north of lighthouse perimeter wall at NL 54867 80229 is highest point but not yet officially ratified. Name: Sotan Hill number: 1632 Height: 193m / 633ft Area: 24D: Barra to Barra Head Class: Ma,1 Grid ref: NL 55353 79980 Summit feature: no feature Drop: 193m Col: Sea

Rude Health

Berneray/Bearnaraigh - an aerial view from the south

From about 36000ft heading west, about 30min after leaving Edinburgh

M J Richardson

Sotan, Berneray

Seen from near the lighthouse. Sotan is a couple of metres higher than the lighthouse, and the highest point of the island.

Michael Earnshaw

Sloc na Sealbhaig

The precipitous cliffs east of the lighthouse on Berneray.

Anne Burgess

Mullach a' Lusgan, Berneray

These rock pools are on top of the cliffs at Barra Head, the southernmost point of the Outer Hebrides.

Bob Jones

Cuiveg Point, Berneray

In Gaelic, 'Rubha Cuabhaig', this south-eastern tip of Berneray is populated only by a flock of extremely shaggy sheep.

Bob Jones

Rubha Ghralish, Berneray

The seabird cliffs at Rubha Ghralish

Mary and Angus Hogg

Sloc na Sealbhaig

This inlet is at the foot of the 180m cliffs to the south east of the lighthouse. Just round the cliffs is Barra Head, the most southerly point on Berneray, which is the most southerly island in the Outer Hebrides (not on Barra at all).

Russel Wills

Barra Head, Berneray

The southernmost point of the Outer Hebrides.

Bob Jones

Sloc Voacligeo, Berneray

This inlet lies to the west of Barra Head.

Bob Jones

Sloc na Sealbhaig, Berneray

Steep cliffs on Berneray's southern coast. The lighthouse at Skate Point can be seen in the distance.

Bob Jones

Headland immediately west of Barra Head, Berneray

Almost the southernmost tip of the Outer Hebrides (Barra Head, just to the east, is the southernmost point).

Bob Jones

A gentler side of Mingulay

Good grazing for cattle during its years of human occupation

Alan Reid

Pier At Berneray/Bearnaraigh

Thirteen Marilyn baggers were dropped of at this rather slippy pier to explore this lovely island of Berneray/Bearnaraigh. This pier helped service the lighthouse.

Rude Health

Well On Berneray/Bearnaraigh

A view into the well on Berneray/Bearnaraigh plus the wall behind it which attempts to enclose the well.

Rude Health

Walled Well Enclosure

A view back up the track to the lighthouse on Berneray/Bearnaraigh with the walled well enclosure on the left of the track.

Rude Health

Burial Ground, Berneray

This walled burial ground is situated halfway between the Barra Head Lighthouse and Sotan, the highest point on Berneray at 193 metres. The memorials in the burial ground are poignant reminders of the hazards of living on such a remote island, with several children having died at an early age.

Bob Jones

Berneray jetty

This jetty was built in the 1830s to service the lighthouse on Barra Head. A track leads from the jetty up to the lighthouse, a mile and a quarter away. The island behind is Mingulay.

Bob Jones

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An Àird is located at Grid Ref: NL5780 (Lat: 56.785691, Lng: -7.6166401)

Unitary Authority: Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands