Bàgh Chlann Nèill

Bay in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Bàgh Chlann Nèill

Hamarsaigh From the ferry into Lochmaddy. — Hamarsaigh Credit: Hugh Venables

Bàgh Chlann Nèill, also known as the Bay of the Children of Niall, is a beautiful coastal area located in Inverness-shire, Scotland. Situated on the west coast of Scotland, the bay is nestled between the towns of Arisaig and Mallaig, overlooking the Sound of Sleat.

The bay is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as swimming, kayaking, sailing, and beachcombing.

The area is also rich in history and folklore, with Bàgh Chlann Nèill believed to be the landing place of the Children of Niall, an ancient Irish dynasty. According to legend, the bay was named after the descendants of Niall of the Nine Hostages, an influential High King of Ireland.

Visitors to Bàgh Chlann Nèill can explore the nearby Eilean Fhianain, a small island with an ancient chapel dedicated to St. Finnan. The island is accessible by foot during low tide, adding to the allure of the area.

In addition to its natural and historical significance, the bay is a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Many species of seabirds can be observed along the coast, including puffins, gannets, and terns. Dolphins and seals are also frequently spotted in the waters of Bàgh Chlann Nèill.

Overall, Bàgh Chlann Nèill is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and abundant wildlife, making it a must-visit location for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

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Bàgh Chlann Nèill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.593863/-7.1073423 or Grid Reference NF9467. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Hamarsaigh

From the ferry into Lochmaddy.

Hugh Venables

Glas Eilean MÃ²r

From the ferry into Lochmaddy.

Hugh Venables

Madadh MÃ²r

Madadh Mòr means 'big dog (or wolf)' and the name is applied to this rock just outside Loch nam Madadh (Loch Maddy), whose name means 'loch of the dogs'. Its counterpart Madadh Beag, the 'small dog', is on the north of the loch. Clearly different from the prevailing Lewisian gneiss, it is in fact part of the Little Minch Sill complex. It is igneous in origin, formed between 23 and 66 million years ago and quite young by comparison with the 3000-million-year-old gneiss!

Anne Burgess

Madadh Beag to the Sou'east of Rubha an Fhigheadair

The ferry out of Loch Maddy seems further north from the planned track than normal. There's a strong southerly wind blowing and the Minch looks so exciting.

Des Colhoun

An Glais-eilean Meadhonach

Mind your navigation in these waters! Can you imagine sailing into Loch Maddy on foggy days prior to the advent of radar, radio beacons, and sonar?

Des Colhoun

Hunched against a strong southerly - that's Madadh Beag

What a sanctuary for fishes these rocks provide! Cast a line near here for the coalfish (Saith or coley) the Pollack (Lythe) and the Wrasse.

Des Colhoun

Madadh Beag

With the rocky slopes of Rubha na h-Aoir beyond. Seen from the ferry for Uig.

M J Richardson

Lighthouse on Rubha an Fhigheadair

With Madadh Beag in the near distance.

M J Richardson

Madadh Beag and Rubha na h-Aoir

Looking from the Lochmaddy-Uig ferry.

M J Richardson

Beacon on Ruigh Liath

With Fathoire behind, to the right.

M J Richardson

Fathoire - the eastern end

A small island in Loch nam Madadh.

M J Richardson

Glas Eilean MÃ²r

Looking northeast from the Lochmaddy-Uig ferry. The lighthouse on Rubha an Fhigheadair is just visible on the headland beyond.

M J Richardson

Glas Eilean MÃ²r

Looking northeast from the Lochmaddy-Uig ferry. Beyond is the headland of Rubha an Fhigheadair

M J Richardson

Rubha Mhic ille-mhalaidh

Headland seen off the port side of the MV Hebrides as she slows on the approach to Lochmaddy. If a certain on line translation service is correct, this is 'Son in-law's headland'. There's a navigation light on the rocks to the right of centre with solar panels visible.

Gordon Hatton

Madadh Mor from the ferry

The sea stack of Madadh Mor from the MV Hebrides as she steams towards Lochmaddy. I'm sure the captain was kind enough to edge into this square to enable a 'geograph' to be taken.

Gordon Hatton

North Lee trig.

This is the lower north summit of Li a'Tuath/North Lee. A very good view point for Loch nam Madadh. The higher southern summit can be seen along with Eabhal, the highest hill on North Uist.

Richard Webb