Àird Ghrèin

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Àird Ghrèin

Cemetery at Cuidhir The cemetery contains several Commonwealth War Graves of naval origins. The stories of some of the casualties can be found in the descriptions of the following images:
<a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/4513717">NF6703 : Four war graves in Cuidhir Cemetery</a>
<a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/4514731">NF6703 : Three war graves in Cuidhir Cemetery</a>
<a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/4676860">NF6703 : Memorial to 3 crew members of SS Idomeneus</a>
<a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/4676877">NF6703 : Commonwealth war grave of John Mackinnon</a> — Cemetery at Cuidhir Credit: John Lucas

Àird Ghrèin is a prominent coastal feature located in Inverness-shire, Scotland. Situated on the western coast of the Scottish Highlands, it is a picturesque headland that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean. The name Àird Ghrèin translates to "sunny point" in Scottish Gaelic, reflecting the area's reputation for receiving ample sunlight.

The headland is characterized by its rugged cliffs, which rise dramatically from the sea to heights of up to 100 meters. These cliffs offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby islands of Skye and the Outer Hebrides. The headland itself is primarily composed of ancient metamorphic rocks, adding to its geological significance.

The area surrounding Àird Ghrèin is abundant in wildlife, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. Visitors may catch a glimpse of various seabirds, including gannets, puffins, and guillemots, as well as larger marine species such as seals and dolphins.

Access to Àird Ghrèin is relatively straightforward, with a well-maintained footpath leading from a nearby car park. The headland is also part of a larger coastal walking route, offering opportunities for longer hikes along the picturesque coastline.

Overall, Àird Ghrèin is a captivating coastal feature that showcases the natural beauty and diversity of the Scottish Highlands. Its dramatic cliffs, stunning views, and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape in the heart of Scotland.

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Àird Ghrèin Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.011082/-7.5077896 or Grid Reference NF6504. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Cemetery at Cuidhir

The cemetery contains several Commonwealth War Graves of naval origins. The stories of some of the casualties can be found in the descriptions of the following images: NF6703 : Four war graves in Cuidhir Cemetery NF6703 : Three war graves in Cuidhir Cemetery NF6703 : Memorial to 3 crew members of SS Idomeneus NF6703 : Commonwealth war grave of John Mackinnon

John Lucas

Memorial to 3 crew members of SS Idomeneus

Chan Sung, Chung Cheong and Leong Kow were members of the crew of SS Idomeneus which was torpedoed on 15th September 1917 en-route from New York to Liverpool. Although the ship was not sunk, the explosion caused the death of 4 crew members, 3 of whom are commemorated here. The ship was beached on Vatersay, eventually repaired and renamed, it continued sailing until 1933.

John Lucas

Commonwealth war grave of John Mackinnon

John Mackinnon was a member of the Royal Naval Reserve and a 2nd hand on HMS Balmoral Castle which was a hired trawler during WWI. He was a native of Barra and hailed from nearby Allasdale. John died of illness on Christmas Day 1918 at the age of 22.

John Lucas

Cuidhir Church, Barra

Becky Williamson

Dun Chuidhir, Barra

Situated on the west side of the island, this dun is quite well preserved.

Becky Williamson

Cemetery at Allasdale

Traigh Hamara

Fank at Allathasdal

Manse at Cuidhir

Church at Cuidhir

Barra golf course

The golf course has all of its greens protected by fencing from the roaming cattle!

Peter Mackenzie

Cattle on machair at Allathasdal

Alan Reid

Coastal scenery on Aird Ghrein, Barra

Colin Park

Burial ground at Allathasdal

Just behind the dunes on Barra's Atlantic coast.

John Allan

TrÃ igh Hamara

Beach on the Atlantic coast of Barra.

John Allan

Beach at Cleat, Barra

Richard Park

Barra - small beach north of Cleat & Aird Mhurain

There is a much larger, sandier beach immediately to the east of this little rocky cove north of the village of Cleat (Cleit). The promontory seen ahead is Aird Mhurain.

Rob Farrow

Barra - Sandy beach northeast of Cleat (Cleit)

This extensive sandy beach is to be found to the NE of the little location of Cleat in northern Barra. Quite unusually for Barra, the beach faces northwards. The hill in the background is the 206m (676') Beinn Chliaid.

Rob Farrow

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Àird Ghrèin is located at Grid Ref: NF6504 (Lat: 57.011082, Lng: -7.5077896)

Unitary Authority: Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands