Eilean Monessie

Island in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Eilean Monessie

Rusting car on the path Credit: Ibn Musa

Eilean Monessie is a small island located in the Monessie Bay, off the west coast of Inverness-shire, Scotland. It is situated approximately 12 miles northwest of the town of Inverness and covers an area of around 35 acres. The island is privately owned and can only be accessed by boat.

This picturesque island is known for its stunning natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. It features a diverse landscape, including rugged cliffs, rocky shores, and lush greenery. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea birds, seals, and occasionally dolphins, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts.

Eilean Monessie is also rich in history and has several historical landmarks. The most prominent feature on the island is Monessie Castle, a 16th-century tower house that was once home to the Clan Fraser. The castle stands in ruins today but still retains its charm and offers a glimpse into the past.

Visitors to Eilean Monessie can enjoy activities such as hiking, picnicking, and exploring the coastline. The island is a great place for those seeking tranquility and a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is a perfect destination for those who appreciate nature, history, and a sense of adventure.

Overall, Eilean Monessie is a hidden gem in Inverness-shire, offering a unique and peaceful experience for those who have the opportunity to visit.

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Eilean Monessie Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.887565/-4.7924876 or Grid Reference NN2980. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Rusting car on the path

Ibn Musa

After some forestry work in Braes o'Lochaber

Ibn Musa

Track near Achluachrach

A stony track connecting the small farm at Monessie to the village at Achluachrach.

Graham Robson

Retired van in a field corner

This Austin Half-ton van, which has seen better days, is resting in the corner of a field beside the path between Monessie and Achluachrach.

Graham Robson

The West Highland Line at Achluachrach

The single track of the West Highland Line Railway on the southern edge of the hamlet of Achluachrach.

Graham Robson

The A86 at Achluachrach

The A86 road passing through the collection of disparate buildings which combine to form the hamlet of Achluachrach.

Graham Robson

River Spean west of Achnacochine

Looking up the River Spean from its southern bank to the west of Achnacochine.

Graham Robson

Ruins at Achnacochine

Looking across some rough grassland towards the ruined former farm stead at Achnacochine.

Graham Robson

Allt nam Bruach at Achnacochine

The Allt nam Bruach close to its confluence with the River Spean east of Achnacochine.

Graham Robson

Gate in deer fence into forest

A gate allows access through the boundary fence of the forest and onto a footpath which later connects with the main track through the plantation. The trees in this part of the forest have relatively recently been felled.

Graham Robson

Forest east of Achnacochine

A clear felled area of forest to the east of the ruins of Achnacochine.

Graham Robson

Forest, Coile Chaorainn

Clear felled forest on the slopes of Coile Chaorainn above the River Spean.

Graham Robson

Road (A86) near to Murlaggan

Looking north-westward.

Peter Wood

Ordnance Survey Flush Bracket G1056

This bracket can be found on the supporting wall of a railway bridge near to Murlaggan. The benchmark's recorded height is 147.282 metres above sea level. For more detail see : Link

Peter Wood

A very damp stretch of the Puggy Line

Built to run a tramway for the construction of the Loch Treig dam, the line has now been dismantled and some of the bridges put beyond sensible use. The route is still used as an occasional path, and for agricultural access - despite RioTinto Alcan's signage suggesting that many of the stream crossings are unsafe.

Richard Law

The Caochan Daraich

A lightly wooded burn flowing down from the flank of Beinn Chlianaig.

Richard Law

Another damp stretch of the Puggy Line

The Puggy Line is the name given to the former tramway that was constructed between Fort William and the dam of Loch Trieg, to assist the building of the dam for the reservoir that supplies power to the Fort William aluminium smelting works. The tramway itself is long disused, the track's mostly been removed, and some of the bridges have been put beyond sensible use. That said, the line of the route is still very evident on the ground, and (on a dry day) makes a rather pleasant walk above Glen Spean.

Richard Law