Loch a' Ghromuinn

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Ross-shire

Scotland

Loch a' Ghromuinn

Caolas a Tuath A panoramic view down the length of the channel. — Caolas a Tuath Credit: Rob Burke

Loch a' Ghromuinn, located in Ross-shire, Scotland, is a picturesque freshwater loch nestled amidst the stunning Highland landscape. Covering an area of approximately 1.5 hectares, it is considered a relatively small loch, but it holds great natural and ecological significance.

Surrounded by lush vegetation and rolling hills, Loch a' Ghromuinn is a haven for various species of flora and fauna. The loch itself is home to an array of freshwater fish, including brown trout, which attracts anglers from far and wide. Its crystal-clear waters provide a serene and tranquil environment, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The shoreline of Loch a' Ghromuinn is fringed with reeds, rushes, and other water-loving plants, creating a vibrant and diverse freshwater marsh ecosystem. This marshland provides a vital habitat for numerous bird species, such as moorhens, coots, and various waterfowl, including ducks and geese. Birdwatchers flock to the area to observe and appreciate the rich avian biodiversity.

Visitors to Loch a' Ghromuinn can enjoy a range of recreational activities, including boating, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. The tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty of the loch make it an ideal location for picnics and leisurely walks along its shores.

Overall, Loch a' Ghromuinn is a hidden gem within the Scottish Highlands, offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking a connection with nature. Its diverse ecosystem, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking scenery make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the natural wonders of Ross-shire.

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Loch a' Ghromuinn Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.013703/-6.4746931 or Grid Reference NB3511. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Caolas a Tuath

A panoramic view down the length of the channel.

Rob Burke

The abandoned township of Stiomrabhaigh

Mike Dunn

Islands on Loch Shaghachain

Mike Dunn

The township of Stiomrabhaigh looking North West

Mike Dunn

B8060 nearing Leumrabhagh

Peter Moore

Lemreway Island - Eilean Iubhaird

A stunning view from the road end at Aird a' Chaolais looking across the sea loch to Eilean Iubhaird

Donald Lawson

Orasaigh with view of Shiant Islands

Rose and Trev Clough

Orasaigh from top of footpath steps

Rose and Trev Clough

Loch near Giearol

Rose and Trev Clough

Ruined blackhouse at Stiomrabhaig

The census of 1851 shows that the village consisted of 16 dwellings and supported a population of 81. By 1858 there were none. Clearances had been well underway in the area during the first half of the 19th century; many of them brutal and uncaring. The residents of Stiomrabhaigh were better placed of than most, having leases directly with the land owner. But when these expired, they accepted an offer of crofts in Leumrabhagh. Lewis was relatively prosperous right up until World War I, which put an end to the herring trade with Russia and Eastern Europe and in spite of the clearances, the increasing population put pressure on land. There were numerous requests to resettle Stiomrabhaigh, all of which were resisted by the landowners and it was not until 1921 when Lord Leverhulme abandoned his ambitious plan for Lewis that crofters returned to the township. Even the resettlement was marked with tragedy as two young men were drowned while transporting household goods from Calbost. These settlers were never officially recognized as crofters by the government; they received no help and no road was built to the township. Given the difficulties of living without facilities, over the next twenty years, a number of the families drifted back to Leumrabhagh. At the start of World War II only two families remained and by the end of the 1940’s, Stiomrabhaigh was once again deserted. Today there is much of the township to be seen; its ruined buildings, lazybeds and field walls standing in splendid isolation between the moor and the sea.

Richard Barrett

Glen Orinsay

A marker post on the footpath to the deserted village of Stiomrabhaigh in front of the greens and browns of Glen Orinsay.

Richard Barrett

Caolas a Tuath bay

Leumrabhagh looking out to Eilean Liubhaird (Edward's Isle), past the islands of Sgeir Ghlas (Green Isle) and Sgeir Fraoich (Heather Isle) in Caolas a'Tuath (North Strait).

Duncan Grey

The road to Orasaigh

Looking towards Orinsay Island

Duncan Grey

House at Orasaigh

Looking towards Shiant Islands

Duncan Grey

Orasaigh

Duncan Grey

Orasaigh hills

Duncan Grey

Coastal view, Orasaigh

One would assume that the name 'Orasaigh' refers to the small island [centre left], as well as the community. The island is accessible at low tide, like several Oronsay and Orasay islands around the west coast.

Gordon Hatton