Eilean Mòr

Island in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Eilean Mòr

Eaval (Eabhal) from Burabhal, North Uist Eaval, 347m, is the highest point on North Uist. Loch Obasaraigh, seen here, is a major obstacle to the ascent of Eaval, and there are basically two routes: a very awkward one from the south-west*, and this one from the north. This starts at Saighdinis <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/gridref/NF8863">NF8863</a> and involves a long sweep round the east side of the loch, passing Burabhal on the way. Climbing Burabhal, 141m, is an optional extra! Once the hill is reached, at the extreme left of this photo, things become easier and the ridge can be followed to the top.

* For an indication of the problems, see my <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/2538382">NF8960 : Eaval summit, looking to the south-west cairn</a>. Imagine trying to thread your way through all those lochans, without even the benefit of a view from above! — Eaval (Eabhal) from Burabhal, North Uist Credit: Michael Earnshaw

Eilean Mòr, also known as Eilean Mòr or simply The Big Island, is a small island situated in the Inner Hebrides, off the west coast of Scotland. It is located in Loch Leven, near the village of Ballachulish in Inverness-shire.

Measuring approximately 1.2 kilometers in length and 0.5 kilometers in width, Eilean Mòr is known for its picturesque beauty and rich history. The island is characterized by its rugged coastline, rocky cliffs, and lush greenery, creating a stunning landscape that attracts both locals and tourists.

The island has a history dating back to the Bronze Age, with evidence of human occupation found in the form of ancient burial sites and standing stones. It was also home to a medieval castle, which unfortunately now lies in ruins.

Today, Eilean Mòr is predominantly uninhabited, with only a few scattered cottages and a small population of residents. The island is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, and seals and dolphins can often be seen swimming nearby.

Access to Eilean Mòr is primarily by boat, with regular ferry services operating from Ballachulish. Visitors can explore the island's walking trails, admire the stunning views, and immerse themselves in its rich history and natural beauty. Eilean Mòr is truly a hidden gem in the Scottish landscape, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

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Eilean Mòr Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.543613/-7.1937517 or Grid Reference NF8962. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Eaval (Eabhal) from Burabhal, North Uist

Eaval, 347m, is the highest point on North Uist. Loch Obasaraigh, seen here, is a major obstacle to the ascent of Eaval, and there are basically two routes: a very awkward one from the south-west*, and this one from the north. This starts at Saighdinis NF8863 and involves a long sweep round the east side of the loch, passing Burabhal on the way. Climbing Burabhal, 141m, is an optional extra! Once the hill is reached, at the extreme left of this photo, things become easier and the ridge can be followed to the top. * For an indication of the problems, see my NF8960 : Eaval summit, looking to the south-west cairn. Imagine trying to thread your way through all those lochans, without even the benefit of a view from above!

Michael Earnshaw

Sculpture at the end of the road

One of the sculptures at the end of the road. Literally at the very end of the road along Loch Euphort.

Malcolm Neal

View NW from the slopes of Burabhal

Loch Obasaraigh is to the left.

Nigel Homer

Anchorage in Loch Eyport

Fin'n'Liz

South side of the island Eilean Leathann

Canoeing into Eaval we passed South of the island Eilean Leathann, which you see off the persons left shoulder. The ridge of Eaval in the distance

Calum McRoberts

View from Eaval

Towards the western end of Loch Obasaraigh, with Burrival on the left

Stuart Wilding

Eileann Leathan from Eabhal

Tim Harrison

East end of Loch Obasaraigh

From the path below Burabhal. The land to the right is one of the smaller of the islands in the loch. The lower slopes of Eabhal are in the distance.

John Allan

Eastern slope of Eabhal

Looking out from the exposed rocks of Eabhal across Loch Obasaraigh and its islands to Burribhal and Li a Deas.

John Allan

Loch Obasaraigh

A prolonged fresh southerly wind is creating spume from the loch and blowing it onto the northern shores.

John Allan

Camel Rock

Ani George

Loch Obasaraigh

Eaval, the highest point on North Uist, is the hill on the far side of the loch. Although the route to the hill is indirect (to the left [east] of the loch as seen here), this is the best approach if you wish to climb Eaval.

David Purchase

Stepping stones at the outlet from Loch Obasaraigh

In order to climb Eaval NF8960 by the simplest (though not easy!) route, it is necessary to cross the outflow from Loch Obasaraigh. The map labels this as 'stepping stones', but it is really a rough stone causeway. I think it would need a very high tide, or a lot of water in the loch (it is a big loch with a quite small catchment area) to make this crossing difficult. To be honest, it is difficult to tell whether this photo is in NF8962 or NF8963. My GPS recorded the northings as 62992 and so I have entered this as in NF8962.

David Purchase