Cnoc a' Ghromuinn

Hill, Mountain in Ross-shire

Scotland

Cnoc a' Ghromuinn

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

Cnoc a' Ghromuinn, also known as Cromarty Hill, is a prominent hill located in Ross-shire, Scotland. Situated near the town of Cromarty, it stands at an elevation of approximately 139 meters (456 feet) above sea level. The hill offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, including the Cromarty Firth, Black Isle, and the Moray Firth.

Cnoc a' Ghromuinn is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. It is easily accessible, with a well-maintained path leading to the summit. The hike to the top takes around 30 minutes and is suitable for all skill levels. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the hill, including heather, gorse, and various bird species.

At the summit of Cnoc a' Ghromuinn, visitors are rewarded with stunning panoramic views. On a clear day, one can see as far as Ben Wyvis and the mountains of Wester Ross. The hill is a perfect spot for photography, picnics, or simply taking in the tranquility of the Scottish Highlands.

In addition to its natural beauty, Cnoc a' Ghromuinn holds historical significance. The hill is home to an Iron Age fort, known as Castle Hill, which dates back over 2,000 years. The fort's remains can still be seen, adding an extra layer of interest for those with an appreciation for ancient history.

Overall, Cnoc a' Ghromuinn is a must-visit destination in Ross-shire, offering a combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance.

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Cnoc a' Ghromuinn Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.015034/-6.4744359 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

Looking towards Loch Mor Stiomrabhaigh

Mike Dunn

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

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

Near Leumrabhagh

Looking towards the village of Leumrabhagh from a vantage point to the north of the village.

Eileen Henderson

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