Port nan Long

Sea, Estuary, Creek in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Port nan Long

Rocks and sand at Rubha Bhoisnis Credit: Sandy Gerrard

Port nan Long is a small coastal settlement located in Inverness-shire, Scotland. Situated along the eastern coast of the region, it overlooks the North Sea. The name "Port nan Long" translates to "Harbour of Ships" in Gaelic, a testament to its historical significance as a maritime hub.

The settlement is nestled within a picturesque estuary, where the River Ness flows into the sea. This natural feature not only enhances the area's scenic beauty but also provides a sheltered environment for various aquatic species. The estuary serves as a breeding ground for several fish species and attracts a diverse array of birdlife.

The settlement itself is small, comprising a handful of houses and a small harbor. The harbor at Port nan Long is a focal point for the local community, with fishing and boating activities being a common sight. The harbor is primarily used by local fishermen who rely on the sea for their livelihood.

The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills and lush greenery, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. The area is popular among visitors for its tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby coastal paths, taking in the fresh sea air and enjoying the stunning vistas.

Overall, Port nan Long in Inverness-shire is a charming coastal settlement that combines natural beauty with a rich maritime heritage. Its estuary, creek, and proximity to the North Sea make it an appealing destination for nature lovers and those seeking a serene coastal experience.

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Port nan Long Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.690417/-7.2110319 or Grid Reference NF8978. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Rocks and sand at Rubha Bhoisnis

Sandy Gerrard

Stubble field on Berneray

Hugh Venables

Sandy shores on Berneray

One of the island's smaller beaches facing south towards North Uist and with the tiny island of Eilean an Dunain at the far end.

Gordon Hatton

Oystercatchers on the beach

You are never far away from the sight or loud piping of oystercatchers on the Western Isles. This view is south towards the small island of Lingeigh [to the right] with the hills of North Uist beyond.

Gordon Hatton

Track across the machair

The machair on Berneray is as fine as anywhere along the Western Isles. The colours are mostly white and yellow from daisies, clover and buttercups, whilst the clover fills the air with a sweet perfume.

Gordon Hatton

Curious lumps and bumps above the shore

Initial thoughts were that these shallow impressions in the grass just above the shoreline were similar to hollows seen on the coastline of Orkney where boats were stored away from the wind and waves, but these were obviously different. In fact these are the scant remains of old cottage outlines, the seawards ends having been eroded away. A local informed me that this was once the site of a village which had been abandoned due to damage by storms.

Gordon Hatton

Thrift on the seashore

A nice example of thrift or sea pink, seemingly happy to survive just above the high tide line at Rubha Bhoisnis.

Gordon Hatton

Beach on the south coast of Berneray

John Allan

Agricultural building, South Berneray

Close to the end of the motor road that runs south-west from the west end of Borgh.

John Allan

Angus Macaskill Monument

Monument to Angus Macaskill who was known as the Nova Scotia Giant who was born at this location in 1825.

Sandy Gerrard

Blackhouse earthworks at Sheabie

Sandy Gerrard

Bay by Cnoc nan Claigean

Sandy bay, with some rocks, on the south shore of Berneray. Link

Colin Smith

Bay South of Cnoc nan Claigeann

Sandy bay, backed by machair, on the southern coast of Berneray. Link

Colin Smith

Foreshore by Eilean an Dunain

Rocky seaweed-covered shore on the Sound of Berneray. Link

Colin Smith

Scale Model

1991 cairn on Berneray's southern shore. The height of it is 7 feet 9 inches, reputed to be the height of an Angus Macaskill who lived close to this spot. Angus emigrated, with his family, to Nova Scotia when he was just 6 years old. Link

Colin Smith

Machair flowers in September

In this more sheltered spot the machair is still colourful.

Lis Burke

Glistening shore near Cnoc nan Claigeann

Westerly waves sweep into the bay created by the new Berneray causeway.

Alan Reid

The quiet bay on the south coast of Berneray

A lovely spot. Intrigued by the comment on Geograph NF8980 : Glistening shore near Cnoc nan Claigeann that the sandy bay is a by-product of the construction of the causeway between Berneray and North Uist My old 1 inch map dating from 1959 when Berneray was a true island does not show any sand along this stretch of coast. Certainly the tidal streams are fast around Berneray, so this is a natural consequence of removing flow through a natural channel.

Julian Paren

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Port nan Long is located at Grid Ref: NF8978 (Lat: 57.690417, Lng: -7.2110319)

Unitary Authority: Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands