Rubha nan Clach Dearga

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Rubha nan Clach Dearga

The path to Smirisary Credit: Gordon Brown

Rubha nan Clach Dearga is a prominent coastal feature located in Inverness-shire, Scotland. It is a headland that extends into the North Atlantic Ocean, forming a distinctive point along the rugged coastline. The name "Rubha nan Clach Dearga" translates to "Headland of the Red Rocks" in Scottish Gaelic, which accurately describes its characteristic red-colored rock formations.

The headland is situated within the larger geographical area known as Inverness-shire, which is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and stunning coastal scenery. Rubha nan Clach Dearga offers breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and the nearby mountains, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

The red rocks that give the headland its name are made of sandstone and have been shaped by centuries of erosion from the crashing waves and strong coastal winds. They create a striking contrast against the deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean, adding to the area's natural beauty.

Access to Rubha nan Clach Dearga is relatively easy, with a well-maintained footpath leading visitors to the headland. The path meanders through heathland and grassy slopes, offering glimpses of wildflowers and native wildlife along the way. Once at the headland, visitors can explore the rugged cliffs, take in the panoramic views, and perhaps even spot seals or seabirds that frequent the area.

Overall, Rubha nan Clach Dearga is a captivating coastal feature in Inverness-shire, offering visitors a chance to experience the rugged beauty of Scotland's coastline and immerse themselves in its rich natural heritage.

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Rubha nan Clach Dearga Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.812116/-5.8661979 or Grid Reference NM6475. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The path to Smirisary

Gordon Brown

The coast at Smirisary

Gordon Brown

The coast at Smirisary

Gordon Brown

The coast at Smirisary

Gordon Brown

Rocky shore at Smirisary

Over the sea, the island of Eigg (with its Sgurr) and Rum behind.

Gordon Brown

Control your dog!

Warning notice on the gate approaching the remote hamlet of Smirisary.

Gordon Brown

White Sands Beach

The beautiful, remote beach reached from the small township of Smirisary.

Jackie Proven

Smirisary path

A rocky section of the footpath between Smirisary and the remote sandy beach at Eilean Coille. It is actually one of the easier sections, as the extremely wet ground means the 'grassy path' has become braided bog. A rewarding walk with stunning views of the Small Isles.

Jackie Proven

Ruin at Smirisary

There are several roofed and habitable cottages here, but also a few ruins where crofters once lived.

Gordon Hatton

Cottage at Smirisary

A croft cottage in a good state of repair, this one being nearest to the shoreline in the remote little community of Smirisary.

Gordon Hatton

Smirisary

A view across the lower part of this isolated former crofting settlement. A beautifully written book by Margaret Leigh ['Spade Among the Rushes'] tells of life here in the 1940's. Margaret lived in the white house in the foreground, where the present owner has proved that you can grow plants and vegetables in your garden if you can keep the deer out. A small wind turbine and solar panels help to supply power, but it is still a lengthy trek to the Glenuig shop or pub. Much of the land here was once cultivated, but has gradually returned to nature with rushes and bog taking over land that could be drained. The path to the settlement divides near the top of the hill [edge of grid square] and although the left hand path looks the more obvious, that to the right is better and leads down to this cottage.

Gordon Hatton

This way to the beach?

I note that other contributors, more intrepid than me, have made their way to the white sand beach to the south of Smirisary, but this was about as far as I got having decided that boots full of water and peat were not really an option. The path is certainly challenging in places, mainly due to poor drainage.

Gordon Hatton