Loch na h-Airigh

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

Scotland

Loch na h-Airigh

Islet with purple flowers I thought at first that the purple flowers adding a dash of colour to this tiny islet in the middle of Loch a' Ghruagaich just south of Marvig (Marbhig) were rhododendrons - but on closer inspection I'm not so sure. They almost look like giant heather ... [Edit] Now confirmed - they are heather ... very healthy specimens !
Islet with purple flowers Credit: Rob Farrow

Loch na h-Airigh is a stunning freshwater loch situated in the county of Ross-shire, Scotland. Nestled amidst the picturesque and rugged Scottish Highlands, this natural gem is a prominent feature of the landscape, captivating visitors with its beauty and tranquility.

Covering an area of approximately 100 acres, Loch na h-Airigh boasts crystal-clear waters that reflect the surrounding hills and mountains, creating a mesmerizing sight. The loch is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. The surrounding area is rich in vegetation, including heather, grasses, and scattered trees, providing an ideal habitat for a variety of plant and animal species.

The loch's waters support a thriving ecosystem, hosting numerous species of fish, such as brown trout and Arctic char. These fish attract anglers from far and wide, who come to test their skills in the serene and peaceful surroundings. Additionally, the loch is home to a myriad of waterfowl, including ducks, swans, and geese, which can be observed gliding gracefully across the water.

Visitors to Loch na h-Airigh can explore the area by foot, taking in the breathtaking scenery and enjoying the peaceful ambiance. There are several walking trails that wind around the loch, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Those seeking a closer encounter with nature can partake in boating activities, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the serenity of the loch's waters.

Overall, Loch na h-Airigh is a true natural treasure, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the Scottish Highlands. Its tranquil atmosphere, stunning vistas, and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature.

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Loch na h-Airigh Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.058183/-6.3959035 or Grid Reference NB4016. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Islet with purple flowers I thought at first that the purple flowers adding a dash of colour to this tiny islet in the middle of Loch a' Ghruagaich just south of Marvig (Marbhig) were rhododendrons - but on closer inspection I'm not so sure. They almost look like giant heather ... [Edit] Now confirmed - they are heather ... very healthy specimens !
Islet with purple flowers
I thought at first that the purple flowers adding a dash of colour to this tiny islet in the middle of Loch a' Ghruagaich just south of Marvig (Marbhig) were rhododendrons - but on closer inspection I'm not so sure. They almost look like giant heather ... [Edit] Now confirmed - they are heather ... very healthy specimens !
Loch nam Faoileag
Loch nam Faoileag
Branch of Loch nam Faoileag
Branch of Loch nam Faoileag
Ruins above Calbost
Ruins above Calbost
Tom an Fhuadain and Loch Odhairn
Tom an Fhuadain and Loch Odhairn
Mouth of Loch Odhairn from Tom an Fhuadain
Mouth of Loch Odhairn from Tom an Fhuadain
Loch Lite Sithinn, Isle of Lewis The OS Name Book of 1848-1852 describes the loch as, "A long narrow fresh water loch about 16 chains long by three wide, which receives two small streams on the north and discharges one on the south into Loch Odhairn".
Loch Lite Sithinn, Isle of Lewis
The OS Name Book of 1848-1852 describes the loch as, "A long narrow fresh water loch about 16 chains long by three wide, which receives two small streams on the north and discharges one on the south into Loch Odhairn".
Coastline to the north of Mol an Eich, Isle of Lewis Maybe not so clear in the photo, but the rock on the skyline has the appearance of a horse looking out to sea.
Coastline to the north of Mol an Eich, Isle of Lewis
Maybe not so clear in the photo, but the rock on the skyline has the appearance of a horse looking out to sea.
Rubha Iosal, Isle of Lewis The OS Name Book of 1848-1852 describes Rubha Iosal as, "A tolerably prominent headland of considerable extent, embracing the whole of the rugged district between Camas Chalaboist and Loch Odhairn".
Rubha Iosal, Isle of Lewis
The OS Name Book of 1848-1852 describes Rubha Iosal as, "A tolerably prominent headland of considerable extent, embracing the whole of the rugged district between Camas Chalaboist and Loch Odhairn".
Mol na Ceannamhoir, Isle of Lewis There used to be a summer settlement of four shieling huts on the edge of the pasture behind the beach.
Mol na Ceannamhoir, Isle of Lewis
There used to be a summer settlement of four shieling huts on the edge of the pasture behind the beach.
Cotton grass on the southern slopes of Druim nan Caorach, Isle of Lewis The OS Name Book of 1848-1852 describes Druim nan Caorach as, "a large, low range of rocky, heathy pasture knolls which are dry and afford tolerably good summer pasturage.  Signifies Sheep Eminence".
Cotton grass on the southern slopes of Druim nan Caorach, Isle of Lewis
The OS Name Book of 1848-1852 describes Druim nan Caorach as, "a large, low range of rocky, heathy pasture knolls which are dry and afford tolerably good summer pasturage. Signifies Sheep Eminence".
Loch na h-Airigh, Isle of Lewis The name of the loch means "Shieling Loch".
Loch na h-Airigh, Isle of Lewis
The name of the loch means "Shieling Loch".
Fish farm, Loch Odhairn, Isle of Lewis At the time of uploading, the farm is operated by The Scottish Salmon Company and produces Atlantic salmon.  Also on the farm are wrasse and lumpsucker which are "cleaner fish" used to control sea lice.
Fish farm, Loch Odhairn, Isle of Lewis
At the time of uploading, the farm is operated by The Scottish Salmon Company and produces Atlantic salmon. Also on the farm are wrasse and lumpsucker which are "cleaner fish" used to control sea lice.
Lochan with water lilies An unnamed lochan beside the road leading to Calbost.
Lochan with water lilies
An unnamed lochan beside the road leading to Calbost.
Reflections in a lochan A hillock of Lewisian reflected in a lochan near Calbost.
Reflections in a lochan
A hillock of Lewisian reflected in a lochan near Calbost.
Loch nam Faoileag The tree in the centre of the photo is growing on a small island in this freshwater loch east of Grabhair.
Loch nam Faoileag
The tree in the centre of the photo is growing on a small island in this freshwater loch east of Grabhair.
Coast near Calbost This small bay east of Calbost was the site of a herring curing station in the first half of the 20th century.
Coast near Calbost
This small bay east of Calbost was the site of a herring curing station in the first half of the 20th century.
Loch Dubh from near Calbost Photo taken near the former home of Angus Macleod (1916-2002), a native of Calbost and a historian, who was active in the formation of the Scottish Crofters Union in 1985.
Loch Dubh from near Calbost
Photo taken near the former home of Angus Macleod (1916-2002), a native of Calbost and a historian, who was active in the formation of the Scottish Crofters Union in 1985.
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Loch na h-Airigh is located at Grid Ref: NB4016 (Lat: 58.058183, Lng: -6.3959035)

Unitary Authority: Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///lifestyle.meant.mirror. Near Leurbost, Na h-Eileanan Siar

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Located within 500m of 58.058183,-6.3959035
Passing Place
Lat/Long: 58.0572668/-6.4012239
Passing Place
Lat/Long: 58.0597647/-6.4017822
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