Eilean Leireabhagh

Island in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Eilean Leireabhagh

Jetty and boat on Loch Sgealtair Credit: Alan Pickup

Eilean Leireabhagh is a small island located in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, specifically in the Inverness-shire region. Also known as the Isle of Lewis, it is famous for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance. The island spans an area of approximately 683 square miles, making it one of the largest islands in Scotland.

The landscape of Eilean Leireabhagh is characterized by rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and vast moorlands. The island is home to numerous lochs, including Loch Seaforth, which is the fifth largest freshwater loch in Scotland. Its diverse ecosystem supports a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Historically, Eilean Leireabhagh has been inhabited for thousands of years. It is known for its rich archaeological sites, including the famous Callanish Stones, a collection of standing stones dating back to the Neolithic period. These ancient structures have drawn visitors from across the globe, offering a glimpse into the island's prehistoric past.

In terms of culture, Eilean Leireabhagh is predominantly Gaelic-speaking, with a strong tradition of music, storytelling, and crafts. The island is renowned for its traditional Scottish music, with the bagpipes and fiddle being prominent instruments. The annual Hebridean Celtic Festival held on the island showcases the vibrant music and culture of the region.

Access to Eilean Leireabhagh is primarily via ferry services from the mainland. Once on the island, visitors can explore the picturesque villages, visit historic sites, enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing, or simply immerse themselves in the tranquility of this remote and captivating island.

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Eilean Leireabhagh Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.595213/-7.1664858 or Grid Reference NF9167. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Jetty and boat on Loch Sgealtair

Alan Pickup

Lochmaddy/Loch nam Madadh

Sandy Gerrard

Works ongoing at Lochmaddy Pier

See NF9267 : Lochmaddy Pier for an earlier view.

Hugh Venables

Seaweed at Lochmaddy

At low tide there is a very large expanse of rocks covered in vegetation here.

Anne Burgess

Taigh Chearsabhagh

The buildings house a museum and arts centre, and a café with excellent home baking.

Anne Burgess

MV 'Hebrides' at Lochmaddy

The MV 'Hebrides' is the ferry from Uig in Skye to Tarbert in Harris and Lochmaddy in South Uist. Until the Berneray causeway was built and the Sound of Harris ferry service started, this was the only way to get from the northern to the southern Western Isles.

Anne Burgess

MV 'Cuma'

The MV 'Cuma' is available for charter and regularly makes trips to St Kilda from her base in Miavaig in West Lewis. This week she was coming in to pick up a party of botanists on their way to survey the islands south of Barra. Pictured passing the dolphin statue outside the Caledonian MacBrayne office and terminal at Lochmaddy.

Anne Burgess

Lochmaddy Marina

The outermost pontoons at Lochmaddy, in use by a handful of pleasure boats.

Anne Burgess

MV 'Hebrides' Leaving Lochmaddy

The ferry is setting off for Uig in the Isle of Skye.

Anne Burgess

Lochmaddy Marina

This is very nearly the whole of the marina, which is used by commercial and pleasure boats.

Anne Burgess

Lochmaddy Marina and Ferry Terminal

MV 'Hebrides' at the ferry pier, from the pontoon giving access to the marina.

Anne Burgess

On final approach to Loch Maddy

I boarded the ferry at Tarbert, Isle of Harris a couple of hours ago and was told that the ferry had a change of plan and instead of going directly to Uig on Skye was now going via Loch Maddy on North Uist. All at no extra cost!

Des Colhoun