Oronsay

Island in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Oronsay

Traigh Athmor A typical scattering of Outer Hebrides houses above the shore.
Traigh Athmor Credit: Gordon Brown

Oronsay is a picturesque island located in the Ross and Cromarty district of Inverness-shire, Scotland. Situated in the Inner Hebrides, this small island covers an area of approximately 1.5 square kilometers and is known for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance. It lies just off the west coast of Scotland, near the larger island of Colonsay.

The island is characterized by its rugged coastline, with rocky cliffs and sandy beaches offering breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and neighboring islands. Oronsay is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including various species of birds, seals, and otters, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

In addition to its natural attractions, Oronsay boasts a rich history. The island is home to the ruins of a medieval priory, which was founded in the 14th century and served as a religious center until the Reformation. The priory ruins, with their intricately carved stone arches and walls, provide a fascinating glimpse into the island's past.

Access to Oronsay is mainly by boat, with regular ferry services connecting it to the mainland. The island offers limited accommodation options, including a few self-catering cottages, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and secluded getaway.

Visitors to Oronsay can enjoy various outdoor activities, such as hiking along the island's scenic trails, birdwatching, and exploring the ancient ruins. The island's tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty make it a popular destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the stunning Scottish wilderness.

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Oronsay Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.661291/-7.29012 or Grid Reference NF8475. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Traigh Athmor A typical scattering of Outer Hebrides houses above the shore.
Traigh Athmor
A typical scattering of Outer Hebrides houses above the shore.
Gentle breakers on Traigh Hornais And the whole beach to ourselves - that's Hebridean beaches for you.
Gentle breakers on Traigh Hornais
And the whole beach to ourselves - that's Hebridean beaches for you.
Traigh Hornais dunes approaching Corran Bhalaig It was refreshing to see absolutely no trace of plastic waste on this and other Hebridean beaches.
Traigh Hornais dunes approaching Corran Bhalaig
It was refreshing to see absolutely no trace of plastic waste on this and other Hebridean beaches.
Near miss by a rainstorm On Traigh Hornais we were lucky to avoid a soaking from this near miss;  someone 'over there' was getting wet!
Near miss by a rainstorm
On Traigh Hornais we were lucky to avoid a soaking from this near miss; someone 'over there' was getting wet!
Loch nan Geireann
Loch nan Geireann
Corran Àird a' Mhòrain Near the root of a long sand spit extending from Tràigh Ear (Greinetobht).
Corran Àird a' Mhòrain
Near the root of a long sand spit extending from Tràigh Ear (Greinetobht).
Western expanse of Traigh Hornais Western expanse of Traigh Hornais photographed at low tide from below the dunes at Corran Bhàlaig.
Western expanse of Traigh Hornais
Western expanse of Traigh Hornais photographed at low tide from below the dunes at Corran Bhàlaig.
Orasaigh island from Sgiobanais Western part of Orasaigh island taken from the shoreline at Sgiobanais
Orasaigh island from Sgiobanais
Western part of Orasaigh island taken from the shoreline at Sgiobanais
Small spit at Tràigh Bhàlaig
Small spit at Tràigh Bhàlaig
Tideline at Tràigh Bhàlaig
Tideline at Tràigh Bhàlaig
Dunes by Tràigh Bhàlaig
Dunes by Tràigh Bhàlaig
Dunes by Tràigh Bhàlaig
Dunes by Tràigh Bhàlaig
Dune front at Corran Bhalaig With the fenceline falling as the dune front recedes.
Dune front at Corran Bhalaig
With the fenceline falling as the dune front recedes.
Sandflats by Corran Bhalaig Looking across to Orasaigh.
Sandflats by Corran Bhalaig
Looking across to Orasaigh.
Foredunes at Corran Bhalaig
Foredunes at Corran Bhalaig
Old machinery in the machair
Old machinery in the machair
Cattle on the track
Cattle on the track
Cattle on a stubble field
Cattle on a stubble field
Show me another place!

Oronsay is located at Grid Ref: NF8475 (Lat: 57.661291, Lng: -7.29012)

Unitary Authority: Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

Also known as: Orasaigh

What 3 Words

///disco.relishes.cabbages. Near Lochmaddy, Na h-Eileanan Siar

Related Wikis

Oronsay, Outer Hebrides

Oronsay (Gaelic Orasaigh) is a tidal island off North Uist in the Outer Hebrides. Lying to the north of Vallaquie Strand, the island has been uninhabited...

Lingeigh, North Uist

Lingeigh is an uninhabited island off North Uist, south east of Boreray. It is separated from North Uist by Traigh Lingeigh. == Footnotes ==

Sollas

Sollas (Scottish Gaelic: Solas) is a small crofting township on the northern coast of the island of North Uist, Scotland. == History == === The Battle... ===

North Uist Machair and Islands

The North Uist Machair and Islands is a protected wetland area in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. A total of 4,705 hectares comprises seven separate areas...

Have you been to Oronsay?

Leave your review of Oronsay below (or comments, questions and feedback).