Am Fraoch Eilean

Island in Argyllshire

Scotland

Am Fraoch Eilean

Islay from sound of Islay Credit: thejackrustles

Am Fraoch Eilean, also known as Heather Island, is a small island located off the coast of Argyllshire, Scotland. Situated in the Inner Hebrides, it is part of a group of islands known as the Garvellachs. This uninhabited island covers an area of approximately 0.6 square kilometers.

Am Fraoch Eilean is characterized by its rugged and rocky landscape, with cliffs rising up to 60 meters in some places. The island is covered in a thick layer of heather, giving it its Gaelic name. This heather provides a vibrant purple hue to the island during the summer months, creating a picturesque sight.

The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, which can be spotted nesting on the cliffs. The surrounding waters are rich in marine life, attracting seals, dolphins, and occasionally whales.

Am Fraoch Eilean has historical significance as well. It is believed to have been the site of an ancient Christian monastery established in the 6th century by St. Brendan. The remains of a chapel, dating back to the 12th century, can still be seen on the island today.

Access to Am Fraoch Eilean is limited due to its remote location. However, it is possible to visit the island by private boat or as part of a guided tour. The island offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in untouched natural beauty and explore its historical heritage.

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Am Fraoch Eilean Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.791437/-6.0372369 or Grid Reference NR4762. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Islay from sound of Islay

thejackrustles

Ardfin Boathouse

A recent shot of the Ardfin Boathouse, scene of the K Foundation's notorious burning of a million pounds in 1994. The building is now being restored and adapted to be a refreshment stop on a new 18-hole golf course which is under construction on the Ardfin Estate. The course is due to open in 2017.

David Hoult

Tide race, Sound of Islay

White water and a tilted buoy in the Sound of Islay. The currents here are fierce and I have once been on a ferry that was unable to land at Port Askaig due to wind and tide (they tried!).

Richard Webb

Am Fraoch Eileann

An island in the Sound of Islay. Jura beyond.

Richard Webb

Am Fraoch Eilean

Off the south coast of Jura.

Russel Wills

Milestone on the road to Feolin

But how far?

Russel Wills

Newly planted trees

Above Jura House.

Russel Wills

Cattle grid

Approaching Ardfin Farm.

Russel Wills

Ardfin Farm on the Isle of Jura

Big building developments, reported to be a hotel resort and golf course.

M J Richardson

Black Rocks, Sound of Islay

A skerry between the course of the ferry and Jura. Taken through rain.

M J Richardson

Black Rocks skerry

In the Sound of Islay, with Jura and the bay at A' Chrois just visible through rain.

M J Richardson

Am Fraoch Eilean

Seen through rain from the ferry to Port Askaig.

M J Richardson

Am Fraoch Eilean

Looking through the rain from the ferry to Port Askaig. A cloud covered Jura is beyond.

M J Richardson

Am Fraoch Eilean

Looking northeast from the ferry to Port Askaig. The 'bump' on Jura beyond the island is Brat Bheinn.

M J Richardson

Black Rocks lateral marker buoy

Viewed from the ferry in the Sound of Islay en route to Port Askaig. For a better picture on a brighter day see John Allan's image from seven years earlier NR4562 : Black Rocks lateral marker buoy. Some of the Black Rocks can be seen just out of the sea on the left. Jura is beyond.

M J Richardson

Old Milestone by the A846, Drochaid Glac Eanruigein, Jura Parish

By the A846, in parish of Jura (Jura District), by widened road near track to Camas an Staca, rocky banking behind. Inscription reads:- : Craig- / house / 4 : : Feolin / 4 : Surveyed Milestone Society National ID: AB_JURA04

Milestone Society