Galta Mòr

Island in Ross-shire

Scotland

Galta Mòr

Galta Mòr is a small island located off the coast of Ross-shire in the Scottish Highlands. Situated in the Inner Hebrides, it is part of the archipelago known as the Summer Isles. The island covers an area of approximately 3 square kilometers and is characterized by its rugged, rocky terrain and stunning coastal cliffs.

The island is uninhabited, with no permanent residents, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking solitude. Its isolation and untouched beauty make it a popular spot for birdwatching, as various species of seabirds, including puffins and guillemots, nest along the cliffs.

Galta Mòr is also known for its rich marine life. The surrounding waters are teeming with diverse species, including seals, dolphins, and occasionally, whales. This makes it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, who can explore the island's waters through activities such as kayaking and boat tours.

The island's history is also of interest to visitors. Remnants of ancient settlements and burial sites can be found, providing a glimpse into the island's past. Additionally, Galta Mòr is renowned for its geological features, including striking rock formations and cliffs carved by the sea over centuries.

Access to Galta Mòr is primarily by boat from nearby mainland ports. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the island's rugged coastline, exploring its hidden coves, and immersing themselves in the unspoiled beauty of this remote Scottish island.

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Galta Mòr Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.898188/-6.4055384 or Grid Reference NG3998. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Galtachan

Chris Wimbush

Galtachan

After a trip from Lochmaddy to the Shiant Isles, we are heading towards Stornoway.

Jac Volbeda

Galtachan

A line of skerries running west from the Shiant Islands. View from Uisinis, Pairc.

Richard Webb

Eastern Galtachan from southeastern Lewis

A zoomed view from the same position as NB3714 : The view across the Minch from south of Grabhair focusing on the row of little islets to the west of the Shiant Islands that make up the eastern section of Galtachan - In order from left to right, the islets that comprise Galtachan are: Galta Beag, Bodach and Staca Làidir with various rocks dotted about round them. The other two main islets of Galtachan - Galta Mòr and Sgeir Mhic a' Ghobha - can be seen in NG3998 : Galtachan from southeastern Lewis The mountains looming in the background are those of northern Skye.

Rob Farrow

Galtachan from southeastern Lewis

This is rather a grainy view of the Galtachan archipelago to the west of the Shiant Isles, but it does show all the main islets of the chain rather than just the eastern ones seen in NG3998 : Eastern Galtachan from southeastern Lewis.

Rob Farrow

Western end of the Galtachan

Galta Mòr and a few tidal skerries to the west. A theory for the etymology is that it derives from a Norse word that is the root of 'gable' in English. There is another tidal rock further to the west, Damhag, but it was still underwater at this stage of the tide.

Toby Speight

Shiants marker buoy

Although a starboard-hand buoy, this one is normally passed to port, as it delineates the southbound shipping lane through the Little Minch. Visible on Lewis behind is the lighthouse that marks the other side of the lane. On days that are not quite so calm as this, it's probably a welcome sight after the treacherous waters of the Sound of Shiant.

Toby Speight