Rubha nan Gall

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Rubha nan Gall

Lochmaddy/Loch nam Madadh Credit: Sandy Gerrard

Rubha nan Gall, located in Inverness-shire, Scotland, is a picturesque coastal headland that is known for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance. With its Gaelic name meaning "headland of the strangers," it carries a rich heritage and offers a unique experience for visitors.

Situated on the west coast of Scotland, Rubha nan Gall extends into the North Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The headland is defined by steep cliffs that rise majestically from the sea, providing a dramatic backdrop against the crashing waves. The rugged terrain is covered in lush vegetation, including heather, grasses, and wildflowers, creating a vibrant and colorful landscape.

Rubha nan Gall holds historical importance due to its association with the Norsemen who inhabited the area centuries ago. It served as a strategic point for Vikings during their expeditions along the Scottish coast. The headland is home to the ruins of a Norse settlement, including a small chapel and burial grounds. These remnants provide a glimpse into the lives of these ancient seafarers and their influence on the region.

In addition to its historical significance, Rubha nan Gall is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The headland provides a habitat for a variety of bird species, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. Visitors can observe these magnificent creatures in their natural environment, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.

Overall, Rubha nan Gall is a captivating coastal feature that combines natural beauty, historical significance, and abundant wildlife. Whether exploring the Norse ruins, admiring the stunning views, or observing the diverse birdlife, visitors are sure to be enthralled by this remarkable headland in Inverness-shire.

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Rubha nan Gall Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.605771/-7.1556332 or Grid Reference NF9269. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Lochmaddy/Loch nam Madadh

Sandy Gerrard

Works ongoing at Lochmaddy Pier

See NF9267 : Lochmaddy Pier for an earlier view.

Hugh Venables

Hamarsaigh

From the ferry into Lochmaddy.

Hugh Venables

Seaweed at Lochmaddy

At low tide there is a very large expanse of rocks covered in vegetation here.

Anne Burgess

Taigh Chearsabhagh

The buildings house a museum and arts centre, and a café with excellent home baking.

Anne Burgess

MV 'Hebrides' at Lochmaddy

The MV 'Hebrides' is the ferry from Uig in Skye to Tarbert in Harris and Lochmaddy in South Uist. Until the Berneray causeway was built and the Sound of Harris ferry service started, this was the only way to get from the northern to the southern Western Isles.

Anne Burgess

MV 'Cuma'

The MV 'Cuma' is available for charter and regularly makes trips to St Kilda from her base in Miavaig in West Lewis. This week she was coming in to pick up a party of botanists on their way to survey the islands south of Barra. Pictured passing the dolphin statue outside the Caledonian MacBrayne office and terminal at Lochmaddy.

Anne Burgess

Lochmaddy Marina

The outermost pontoons at Lochmaddy, in use by a handful of pleasure boats.

Anne Burgess

MV 'Hebrides' Leaving Lochmaddy

The ferry is setting off for Uig in the Isle of Skye.

Anne Burgess

Lochmaddy Marina

This is very nearly the whole of the marina, which is used by commercial and pleasure boats.

Anne Burgess

Lochmaddy Marina and Ferry Terminal

MV 'Hebrides' at the ferry pier, from the pontoon giving access to the marina.

Anne Burgess

On final approach to Loch Maddy

I boarded the ferry at Tarbert, Isle of Harris a couple of hours ago and was told that the ferry had a change of plan and instead of going directly to Uig on Skye was now going via Loch Maddy on North Uist. All at no extra cost!

Des Colhoun