Àird nam Madadh

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Àird nam Madadh

Hamarsaigh From the ferry into Lochmaddy. — Hamarsaigh Credit: Hugh Venables

Àird nam Madadh is a prominent coastal feature located in Inverness-shire, Scotland. Situated on the western coast of the Highlands, it is specifically positioned on a headland that extends out into the North Atlantic Ocean. This headland, also known as a point, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the open sea.

The name Àird nam Madadh translates to "Headland of the Dogs" in Scottish Gaelic, which is believed to be derived from the presence of seals and sea lions that inhabit the area. The headland itself is characterized by rugged cliffs, rocky outcrops, and a diverse range of coastal vegetation, making it a haven for various bird species and other wildlife.

Visitors to Àird nam Madadh can experience the raw beauty of the Scottish coastline while enjoying activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography. The headland offers several walking trails, allowing visitors to explore the area and discover its hidden gems. The coastal views from the cliffs are particularly impressive, providing a panoramic vista of the ocean and nearby islands.

Additionally, Àird nam Madadh is known for its historical significance. The remains of ancient settlements and fortifications can be found in the vicinity, indicating human habitation in the area dating back centuries. These archaeological sites add an extra layer of intrigue and interest to the headland.

Overall, Àird nam Madadh is a captivating coastal feature in Inverness-shire, offering a combination of natural beauty, wildlife, and historical significance that attracts both locals and tourists alike.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Àird nam Madadh Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.590352/-7.1124954 or Grid Reference NF9467. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Hamarsaigh

From the ferry into Lochmaddy.

Hugh Venables

Glas Eilean MÃ²r

From the ferry into Lochmaddy.

Hugh Venables

Madadh MÃ²r

Madadh Mòr means 'big dog (or wolf)' and the name is applied to this rock just outside Loch nam Madadh (Loch Maddy), whose name means 'loch of the dogs'. Its counterpart Madadh Beag, the 'small dog', is on the north of the loch. Clearly different from the prevailing Lewisian gneiss, it is in fact part of the Little Minch Sill complex. It is igneous in origin, formed between 23 and 66 million years ago and quite young by comparison with the 3000-million-year-old gneiss!

Anne Burgess

Madadh Beag to the Sou'east of Rubha an Fhigheadair

The ferry out of Loch Maddy seems further north from the planned track than normal. There's a strong southerly wind blowing and the Minch looks so exciting.

Des Colhoun

An Glais-eilean Meadhonach

Mind your navigation in these waters! Can you imagine sailing into Loch Maddy on foggy days prior to the advent of radar, radio beacons, and sonar?

Des Colhoun

Hunched against a strong southerly - that's Madadh Beag

What a sanctuary for fishes these rocks provide! Cast a line near here for the coalfish (Saith or coley) the Pollack (Lythe) and the Wrasse.

Des Colhoun

Madadh Beag

With the rocky slopes of Rubha na h-Aoir beyond. Seen from the ferry for Uig.

M J Richardson

Madadh Beag and Rubha na h-Aoir

Looking from the Lochmaddy-Uig ferry.

M J Richardson

Beacon on Ruigh Liath

With Fathoire behind, to the right.

M J Richardson

Fathoire - the eastern end

A small island in Loch nam Madadh.

M J Richardson

Glas Eilean MÃ²r

Looking northeast from the Lochmaddy-Uig ferry. The lighthouse on Rubha an Fhigheadair is just visible on the headland beyond.

M J Richardson

Glas Eilean MÃ²r

Looking northeast from the Lochmaddy-Uig ferry. Beyond is the headland of Rubha an Fhigheadair

M J Richardson

Rubha Mhic ille-mhalaidh

Headland seen off the port side of the MV Hebrides as she slows on the approach to Lochmaddy. If a certain on line translation service is correct, this is 'Son in-law's headland'. There's a navigation light on the rocks to the right of centre with solar panels visible.

Gordon Hatton

Madadh Mor from the ferry

The sea stack of Madadh Mor from the MV Hebrides as she steams towards Lochmaddy. I'm sure the captain was kind enough to edge into this square to enable a 'geograph' to be taken.

Gordon Hatton

Hebridean line squall, North Lee, Lochmaddy

The hill was being climbed instead of sailing the coast of North Uist in a full westerly gale.

Julian Paren

North Lee trig.

This is the lower north summit of Li a'Tuath/North Lee. A very good view point for Loch nam Madadh. The higher southern summit can be seen along with Eabhal, the highest hill on North Uist.

Richard Webb