Raireanais

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Raireanais

Flodda causeway Credit: Catherine Morgan

Raireanais is a prominent coastal feature located in Inverness-shire, Scotland. It is a headland that juts out into the North Sea, forming a point that offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline. The name Raireanais is derived from the Gaelic language and translates to "beautiful headland," which aptly describes the area's natural beauty.

This headland is characterized by its rugged cliffs that overlook the sea, providing a dramatic backdrop to the picturesque landscape. The cliffs are made up of layers of sedimentary rocks, exhibiting various colors and textures, which are a testament to the geological history of the region.

Raireanais is known for its diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Seabirds such as gannets, puffins, and kittiwakes can be spotted nesting on the cliffs, while seals can often be seen basking on the nearby rocks. The surrounding waters are also home to a variety of fish species, attracting anglers from far and wide.

The headland is easily accessible by foot, with several walking trails leading to the point. These trails meander through rolling hills and heathland, providing opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the area's natural surroundings.

In addition to its natural attractions, Raireanais also holds historical significance. Ruins of an ancient fort can be found on the headland, serving as a reminder of the area's rich cultural heritage.

Overall, Raireanais is a captivating coastal feature that offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and historical importance. It is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the enchanting landscapes of Inverness-shire.

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Raireanais Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.474789/-7.2495998 or Grid Reference NF8554. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Flodda causeway

Catherine Morgan

The track to Roisinis

Loch an Tairbh to the right. The sheepfold shown by the OS in this area can just be seen as a fenced structure on the horizon.

Gordon Brown

Old ruined sheiling by the Roisinis track

The OS marks a cup-marked stone by this ruin.

Gordon Brown

Bog cotton and moorland to sea loch Oban Uaine

Houses on Grimsay may just be seen in the distance.

Gordon Brown

Bagh Sgotbheinn

Not all Hebridean buildings fall into disrepair. I note that Dave Fergusson's 2007 photograph includes this small building, but now, twelve years later it has a new roof and is looking well cared for.

Gordon Hatton

Kallin: postbox № HS6 25

One of four postboxes on the island of Grimsay. Apart from the one on the main road close to the post office, they are emptied at 11:45am on weekdays and at 9:30am on Saturdays.

Chris Downer

Island Flodda: postbox № HS7 79

A small postbox serving this small island, just off the coast of Benbecula - we look across the Flodda Sound (Caolas Fhlodaigh) between the two. The box is emptied at 11am on weekdays and at 8:30am on Saturdays.

Chris Downer

Island Flodda: a not-so-reliant

An old three-wheeler has reached the end of the road - literally and figuratively.

Chris Downer

Loch, Rubha Dubh

The road comes between this loch and the sea.

Richard Webb

Field, Ceannaraigh

The highest ground on Grimsay is out there somewhere.

Richard Webb

Inlet, Ceannaraigh

An inlet of Bàgh Sgotbheinn, Grimsay.

Richard Webb

Grimsay: former church at Scotvein

That this is still marked as a church on all scales of mapping currently (December 2012) perhaps suggests that the conversion to residential use is relatively recent.

Chris Downer

Grimsay: entering Ceanairidh

The late evening sun is reflecting brightly off the sign which, as is often the case with these Gaelic names, has a slight spelling discrepancy compared with the map.

Chris Downer