Gleann Beag

Valley in Argyllshire

Scotland

Gleann Beag

Port na Seilich From the MV Finlaggan. — Port na Seilich Credit: Andrew Abbott

Gleann Beag, located in Argyllshire, Scotland, is a picturesque valley that showcases the natural beauty of the region. Nestled amidst the awe-inspiring Scottish Highlands, Gleann Beag offers visitors a serene and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

The valley is characterized by its breathtaking landscapes, with rolling hills, verdant meadows, and meandering streams that flow through the heart of the glen. The surrounding hills provide a stunning backdrop, with their rugged peaks and rocky outcrops that add to the valley's charm.

Gleann Beag is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy. Hiking and walking trails crisscross the valley, providing opportunities to explore the untouched wilderness and discover hidden gems along the way. The glen is also popular for mountain biking, with its varied terrain and challenging routes that cater to all skill levels.

Wildlife abounds in Gleann Beag, and nature lovers will be delighted by the diverse species that call this valley home. Red deer can often be spotted roaming the hillsides, while otters and various bird species frequent the rivers and lochs. The glen's rich biodiversity makes it a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers.

For those seeking a tranquil and idyllic retreat, Gleann Beag offers a selection of accommodation options, including charming cottages and bed and breakfasts that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the valley.

In summary, Gleann Beag is a hidden gem in Argyllshire, Scotland, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with nature and experience the untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

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Gleann Beag Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.829526/-6.1320883 or Grid Reference NR4167. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Port na Seilich

From the MV Finlaggan.

Andrew Abbott

Coastline of Islay

With Am Meall in the background.

Andrew Abbott

Woodland track

Mick Garratt

Bluebells, Ballygrant Wood

Mick Garratt

Building (Period Unassigned)

Not sure is recorded for this pair of ruins. For further info. see Canmore.org.uk. Islay, Kilslevan | Canmore. Available online at: Link

[Accessed 29 May 2022].

Mick Garratt

Building (Period Unassigned)

Not sure is recorded for this pair of ruins. For further info. see Canmore.org.uk. Islay, Kilslevan | Canmore. Available online at: Link

[Accessed 29 May 2022].

Mick Garratt

Kilslevan deserted village

The remains of deserted houses and settlements are common throughout the whole of Scotland, Islay is no exception. Kilslevan seems to have once been a township of at least eight longhouses, and several other buildings, enclosures and two corn-drying kilns although these are hard to discern under the grass and moss. There are the ruins of a rudimentary chapel nearby. Close by too, is an old lead mine, although it is not clear if this was related to the village. Its Gaelic name is Cill Sléibleainn meaning St. Slevan’s Church. The village was abandoned in the later half of 19th century. One local source refers to a claim that it was “a plague village”. Perhaps not ‘the’ plague but an epidemic of some sort may well have reduced the population for it to become unsustainable We are fortunate that the 1836 Islay Tenants Rental List has been transcribed and made available online Under Kilslevan, seven tenants are listed :— Ronald McDougall Alexander Campbell Archibald Currie (Black) Archibald Currie (fair) Archibald McDougall Alexander Currie Hugh Currie Another source gives the population as 67 in the 1841 census, and 55 in the 1851. There must have been big multi-generational families in those days. Abandonment must have taken place sometime in the following decades. For references see my blog Link

Mick Garratt

Footbridge, Loch Allan

Mick Garratt

Bridge over stream flowing from Loch Allan

Mick Garratt

DÃ¹n Bhoraraic

Mick Garratt

End/Start road to Finlaggan

thejackrustles

Field by Ballygrant

Beside the road to Port Askaig.

Richard Webb

Robolls Moorland

Moorland on the edge of Robolls Hill, viewed in mid-April with the land still in winter colours.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Track to Loch Ballygrant

Russel Wills

The Inn at Ballygrant

'Ballygrant Inn & Restaurant is a family run Inn on the Isle of Islay offering relaxed, informal accommodation, good local food and a great selection of Malt Whiskies.' Link

Russel Wills