Eilean Gainimh

Island in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Eilean Gainimh

The Well of the Seven Heads Credit: Tim Glover

Eilean Gainimh is a small island located in Inverness-shire, Scotland. Situated in the innermost reaches of the Scottish Highlands, it is nestled within the vast and breathtaking landscape of the region. This island is a true gem, surrounded by the picturesque waters of Loch Ness.

Covering an area of around 10 acres, Eilean Gainimh is known for its rugged beauty and rich history. The island is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including native Scottish trees such as Scots pine and birch, as well as various species of birds and small animals.

The island's history dates back centuries, with evidence of human occupation as far back as the Iron Age. Ruins of ancient structures can be found on the island, providing a glimpse into its past. Eilean Gainimh has been a site of interest for archaeologists, historians, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Access to the island is limited, as it can only be reached by boat. However, this seclusion adds to the island's charm and allows visitors to truly immerse themselves in the tranquility of the surrounding nature. Many visitors come to Eilean Gainimh to enjoy activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography.

Overall, Eilean Gainimh is a captivating and unspoiled island in the heart of Inverness-shire. Its natural beauty, combined with its rich history, makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and immersive experience in the Scottish Highlands.

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Eilean Gainimh Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.066624/-4.8121846 or Grid Reference NH2900. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The Well of the Seven Heads

Tim Glover

Highland cattle beside Loch Oich

View southward on A82 just south of Invergarry.

Ben Brooksbank

Tobar nan Ceann

Well of The Seven Heads Monument (Tobar nan Ceann) Link

Chris McAuley

Well of the Seven Heads

A Category B listed monument [Link

], dating from 1812, which commemorates the murder of two sons of the 12th MacDonald of Keppoch in 1663. The murderers (seven in total) were found and executed in 1665 and their heads washed in the spring here before being shown to the clan chief. The monument sits beside the A82 on the shore of Loch Oich.

Richard Sutcliffe

Monument at Well of the Seven Heads

Named on OS maps as Tobar nan Ceann the monument is above an actual well which lies below the retaining wall. It's not obvious in the image from the distance at which it was recorded that the finial to the obelisk is a cluster of seven heads carved in stone, held by a hand which also holds a knife. The actual heads belonged to the (supposed?) murderers of two MacDonald brothers who were put to death in a revenge attack.

Trevor Littlewood

Loch Oich

The wooded shore of the loch near the A82.

Jim Barton

Old Milestone by the A82, Loch Oich, Kilmallie parish

Highland granite by the A82, in parish of Kilmallie (Lochaber District), Loch Oich, near lay-by, 200m North of shop. Inscription once read:- : (Spean Bridge / 14) : : (Invergarry / 2) : Surveyed Milestone Society National ID: HI_FWFA23

Milestone Society

Loch Oich

Richard Webb

Hillside on the way to Meall Nan Reitheachan trigpoint

thejackrustles

Loch Oich looking North

Annette Lee

Seven Heads monument, Loch Oich

Annette Lee

Bench and Boat - Loch Oich

Peter Moore

Pier, Loch Oich

Tim Glover

The A82 passes the Well of the Seven Heads

Tim Glover

Well of the Seven Heads Monument, Loch Oich

Category B Listed monument erected in 1812 by Col. McDonnell of Glengarry. Seven murderers killed at Inverlair in 1665 had their heads presented to the Chief at Invergarry Castle. Previously the heads had reputedly been washed in the spring below the monument.

Jo and Steve Turner