Ath nan Leac

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Caithness

Scotland

Ath nan Leac

Young Conifers Mostly sitka spruce planted on previously forested peatland.
Young Conifers Credit: David Bremner

Ath nan Leac, also known as Leac Loch in Gaelic, is a picturesque freshwater marsh located in the Caithness region of Scotland. This enchanting natural feature is situated amidst the stunning Highland landscapes, surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery.

Covering an area of approximately 10 acres, Ath nan Leac is a small lake or pond that offers a tranquil and serene atmosphere to visitors. The name "Leac" translates to "slate" in English, which indicates the presence of slate-like rocks in the vicinity. These rocks contribute to the overall charm and character of the area.

The marsh is known for its diverse vegetation, which thrives in the moist and fertile environment. Tall reeds, rushes, and water lilies create a vibrant and colorful display, attracting a variety of wildlife. Visitors may spot a range of bird species, including ducks, swans, and herons, as well as frogs, otters, and various insects that inhabit the marsh.

Ath nan Leac is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers who seek to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Its idyllic surroundings provide a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Access to Ath nan Leac is relatively easy, with a well-maintained path leading visitors to the water's edge. The calm and reflective waters, combined with the stunning natural surroundings, make this freshwater marsh a truly enchanting location within the Caithness region.

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Ath nan Leac Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.410267/-3.5325721 or Grid Reference ND1047. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Young Conifers Mostly sitka spruce planted on previously forested peatland.
Young Conifers
Mostly sitka spruce planted on previously forested peatland.
Loch Meadie I'm not sure how good the fishing is but plenty of fish were jumping.
Loch Meadie
I'm not sure how good the fishing is but plenty of fish were jumping.
Loch Meadie Ben Dorrery can be seen distant.
Loch Meadie
Ben Dorrery can be seen distant.
Loch Meadie My goodness the midgies were bad!
Loch Meadie
My goodness the midgies were bad!
Loch a' Cherigal The area around this part of the loch was quite wet.
Loch a' Cherigal
The area around this part of the loch was quite wet.
Loch a' Cherigal Wet terrain indeed.
Loch a' Cherigal
Wet terrain indeed.
Lochan Dubh At Strathmore.
Lochan Dubh
At Strathmore.
Acharynie Cemetery Such a wind-swept and lonesome place.  Loved the protruding step on the perimeter dyke to gain access. But difficult for those of advancing years!
Acharynie Cemetery
Such a wind-swept and lonesome place. Loved the protruding step on the perimeter dyke to gain access. But difficult for those of advancing years!
Road in Moorland Difficult to take a meaningful photograph with bog cover - hence the road.
Road in Moorland
Difficult to take a meaningful photograph with bog cover - hence the road.
The Way Ahead Sadly the wind turbines dominate the scene.
The Way Ahead
Sadly the wind turbines dominate the scene.
Forest Access Braehour Forest (typical of many round here) has destroyed valuable peatland. Fortunately there are moves to reverse this e.g. the RSPB's initiative at Forsinain.
Forest Access
Braehour Forest (typical of many round here) has destroyed valuable peatland. Fortunately there are moves to reverse this e.g. the RSPB's initiative at Forsinain.
Acharynie Cemetery
Acharynie Cemetery
Strathmore Lodge
Strathmore Lodge
Anglers'  Hut On a loop of the River Thurso, which is well regarded as a good salmon river, a hut stands to give shelter and cover for the anglers.
Anglers' Hut
On a loop of the River Thurso, which is well regarded as a good salmon river, a hut stands to give shelter and cover for the anglers.
Lochan Dubh Popular with anglers this small loch feeds into the River Thurso.
Lochan Dubh
Popular with anglers this small loch feeds into the River Thurso.
Forest Track Near Loch Meadie this forest welcomes walkers and cyclists.  There is a car park and information board.
Forest Track
Near Loch Meadie this forest welcomes walkers and cyclists. There is a car park and information board.
Loch Meadie
Loch Meadie
Fork in forest tracks
Fork in forest tracks
Show me another place!

Ath nan Leac is located at Grid Ref: ND1047 (Lat: 58.410267, Lng: -3.5325721)

Unitary Authority: Highland

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///furniture.duos.building. Near Halkirk, Highland

Nearby Locations

Cottage Linn Ath nan Leac

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Nearby Amenities

Located within 500m of 58.410267,-3.5325721
Strathmore Lodge
Place: hamlet
Lat/Long: 58.4105363/-3.5397117
Bus Stop
Strathmore Lodge
Local Ref: AT
Naptan AtcoCode: 6700713145
Naptan Bearing: W
Naptan CommonName: Strathmore Lodge
Naptan Indicator: at
Naptan Landmark: Strathmore Lodge
Naptan NaptanCode: 45328549
Naptan Street: Altnabreac Road
Naptan Verified: no
Source: naptan_import
Lat/Long: 58.4109473/-3.5368181
The data included in this document is from www.openstreetmap.org. The data is made available under ODbL.

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