Beul a' Chaolais

Sea, Estuary, Creek in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Beul a' Chaolais

Baleshare - North Uist Causeway Looking east from Samhla to North Uist. Interestingly, although both sides are open to the sea, there is water to the south but it was dry on the north. — Baleshare - North Uist Causeway Credit: M J Richardson

Beul a' Chaolais is a small coastal village situated in the picturesque region of Inverness-shire, Scotland. Nestled along the shores of the North Sea, this charming settlement is known for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.

The village is blessed with a diverse range of geographical features, including a sea, estuary, and creek, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The sea surrounding Beul a' Chaolais offers breathtaking views of the horizon, with its sparkling blue waters stretching as far as the eye can see. This coastline is a popular spot for fishing and sailing, attracting visitors from near and far.

The estuary of Beul a' Chaolais is a unique ecosystem, where the sea meets a freshwater river. This convergence creates a rich habitat for a variety of marine and bird species. Visitors can witness an array of wildlife, including seals, otters, and a wide range of seabirds, such as gannets and puffins.

A notable feature of Beul a' Chaolais is the picturesque creek that winds its way through the village. Surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, this serene waterway provides a peaceful setting for leisurely walks and picnics.

In addition to its natural beauty, Beul a' Chaolais offers a warm and welcoming community. The village is home to a small population, with residents who take pride in their heritage and the preservation of their surroundings. Local amenities include quaint shops, cozy cafes, and traditional pubs, where visitors can experience the warm hospitality and authentic Scottish culture.

Overall, Beul a' Chaolais in Inverness-shire is a hidden gem, offering a harmonious blend of natural wonders and a close-knit community.

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Beul a' Chaolais Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.550339/-7.3731794 or Grid Reference NF7863. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Baleshare - North Uist Causeway

Looking east from Samhla to North Uist. Interestingly, although both sides are open to the sea, there is water to the south but it was dry on the north.

M J Richardson

Shore at Samhla

Looking south from the west end of the causeway.

M J Richardson

Cladach Iolaraigh

West side of North Uist

Richard Webb

Carnan Nan Long chambered cairn

Neolithic chambered cairn on the coastline. Link

Sandy Gerrard

Field wall next to beach on Baile Sear

Walls were often erected to prevent stock on beaches getting onto adjacent arable ground (Scale 1m).

Sandy Gerrard

The shore near Cladach Chireboist

Looking towards the gap between Eilean Chircebost (Kirkibost Island), on the right, and Baile Sear (Baleshare) on the left. The map of Baleshare is littered with tiny 10m contours, though the northern tip seen here is much lower. Kirkibost has not a single 10m contour, though in this and other photos it appears to reach at least that height. One relevant factor is that the photos all seem to have been taken at low tide whereas height is measured above Mean Sea Level. However I suspect that the Ordnance Survey do not devote too much time to surveying islands like this which are hardly used and comprise mostly sand dunes which can and do shift! Perhaps at present this southern tip of Kirkibost is slightly higher than 10m.

David Purchase

Claddach Kirkibost foreshore

Just before dusk the sun breaks through.

Alan Reid

Claddach Kirkibost croft land

Wind plucked plastic litters the roadside

Alan Reid

Cladach Chirceboist

Fattening the calves

Alan Reid

Cladach Chirceboist

The road to the moor.

Alan Reid

Along the dune ridge at Slugan

Richard Law

The tidal channel that separates Eilean Chirceboist

I think the channel has moved a little way south of its marked position on the map(s), but either way, it helps explain why there are currently several unclaimed squares just north & west of here. It may be possible to reach the island across the sands of Tràigh Leathann from the road around N Uist, but as it's a fairly long walk there & back, I suspect it would involve 'marooning' yourself on the island while the tide's in. Or just get a boat/kayak. Or wade this channel.

Richard Law

Chambered cairn on Baleshare

Neolithic chambered tomb on the northern coast of Baleshare island.

Gordon Hatton

Old crofting settlement, Balilleray

An extensive area of old walls and ruined crofts at Balilleray on Baleshare island. The settlement was abandoned [or possible cleared] in the 19th century.

Gordon Hatton

Pebbles, sand and water

There's not a lot of land in this square, but a photo is possible from the point where the sand spit at the north end of Baleshare turns the corner. Across the sands are crofts on North Uist.

Gordon Hatton

Kirkibost Island from Baleshare

At low tide the narrow channel between these two sandy islands looks easy enough to wade across, but only the brave or foolish would try such a crossing as the channel is probably deeper than it looks and has a strong current.

Gordon Hatton

Cladach Kirkibost: postbox № HS6 38

This small postbox on the A865 is emptied at 9am on weekdays and at 8:15am on Saturdays. It may (but just as possibly may not!) provide a clue as to the location of the former Claddach Kirkibost (with the 'dd') Post Office, which opened in 1935 and closed on 31 December 1971.

Chris Downer