Alt Fada

Sea, Estuary, Creek in Argyllshire

Scotland

Alt Fada

Grasdale, The Oa, Islay There are many ruined villages and buildings on the Oa peninsula in south-west Islay. The population of this part of the island in 1830 was around 1500 - there&#039;s probably about a tenth of that number now! It is a very poignant experience to wander round this lonely, but beautiful, peninsula and think of times past and yet see the current living world all around which hasn&#039;t changed for centuries. — Grasdale, The Oa, Islay Credit: Becky Williamson

Alt Fada is a picturesque coastal area located in Argyllshire, Scotland. Nestled between the rolling hills and the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, it encompasses a sea, estuary, and creek, offering a diverse and captivating landscape.

The sea at Alt Fada is characterized by its stunning azure waters and a gentle breeze that carries the refreshing scent of salt. It is a haven for marine life, with an abundance of fish, seals, and seabirds. The rhythmic sound of crashing waves against the rugged coastline creates a soothing ambiance, inviting visitors to take long walks along the sandy beaches or indulge in water sports like sailing or kayaking.

Moving inland, the estuary at Alt Fada is a tranquil and biodiverse ecosystem. The meeting point of a river and the sea, it forms a unique habitat for a variety of flora and fauna. The estuary is home to numerous bird species, including herons, oystercatchers, and curlews, making it a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Finally, the creek at Alt Fada is a hidden gem, winding its way through the verdant countryside. Lined with ancient oak trees and surrounded by lush vegetation, it offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. The babbling sound of the creek and the occasional glimpse of otters or deer create a sense of harmony with nature.

Overall, Alt Fada in Argyllshire is a captivating destination that showcases the beauty of Scotland's coastal landscapes. Whether exploring the sea, observing the diverse wildlife in the estuary, or immersing oneself in the serenity of the creek, visitors are sure to be enchanted by this idyllic location.

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Alt Fada Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.651143/-6.280694 or Grid Reference NR3048. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Grasdale, The Oa, Islay

There are many ruined villages and buildings on the Oa peninsula in south-west Islay. The population of this part of the island in 1830 was around 1500 - there's probably about a tenth of that number now! It is a very poignant experience to wander round this lonely, but beautiful, peninsula and think of times past and yet see the current living world all around which hasn't changed for centuries.

Becky Williamson

Disused shieling on the Oa, Islay

Becky Williamson

Natural Arch near Soldier's Rock, Islay

Viewed from above. It is possible to walk across this archway.

Becky Williamson

Waterfall near Soldier's Rock, Islay

Becky Williamson

Soldier's Rock and Caves, The Oa, Islay

Becky Williamson

Natural arch and Soldier's Rock

A fascinating stretch of coast on the north side of the Oa. The stack of Soldier's Roch is seen over the top of the natural arch - one of many around Islay's coastline.

Gordon Hatton

North Oa coastline

The coastline of the Oa near to Soldier's Rock. The small conical hill in the picture makes a near perfect threesome with the Paps of Jura, which are visible in the distance.

Gordon Hatton

Coastal scenery on the Oa

The hollow in the foreground will be grassed over raised beach.

Gordon Hatton

Raised beach - The Oa

Partly grassed over raised beach with former sea cliffs and stacks on the north side of The Oa.

Gordon Hatton

Sruthan Poll nan Gamhna

Sruthan Poll nan Gamhna a few yards before it tumbles down in its gulley. (The Oa on Islay).

Vanhercke Christiaan

Sruthan Poll nan Gamhna Gulley

Sruthan Poll nan Gamhna Gulley & Waterfall, The Oa, Islay.

Vanhercke Christiaan

Eilean TÃ²rrach, The Oa, Islay

Tòrrach possibly means 'full of eminences' - it hardly seemed to fit with this low-lying, possibly tidal island. It is quite difficult to access this gridsquare, but not as hard as I thought it might be, given that most of it is under water!

Becky Williamson

Rocks at Port Luachrach, Islay

Luachrach translates from Gaelic as 'rushy'.

Becky Williamson

Gully near Soldier's Rock, Islay

The rocky coastline is full of inlets, caves and natural arches.

Becky Williamson

Cave at Port na Laimhrige, Islay

It's more of a natural arch really!

Becky Williamson

Cave at Slochd an Lomaidh, Islay

'Hollow of the Shearing/Desolation' - both words seem possible, given that this was farming land, but it is also desolate! There are many caves strewn along this coastline. This particular example is cavernous. I had to scramble up a rocky hillside to get this photo.

Becky Williamson