Caolas na Brathan

Sea, Estuary, Creek in Argyllshire

Scotland

Caolas na Brathan

The summit of Beinn Oronsay A substantial and well-built cairn for a hill only 93m high. But Oronsay is a popular island to visit. It is tidal, and can be easily walked to from Colonsay except near low tide. There are the ruins of an Augustinian priory nearby. And the hill is low, and an easy walk!

Just left of the cairn is Beinn Eibhne on the mainland of Colonsay. — The summit of Beinn Oronsay Credit: Michael Earnshaw

Caolas na Brathan, located in Argyllshire, Scotland, is a picturesque sea inlet known for its stunning natural beauty. Nestled between rolling hills and rugged cliffs, it offers visitors a captivating blend of sea, estuary, and creek environments.

The sea at Caolas na Brathan is a key feature, with its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. It provides an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, allowing visitors to explore the underwater world teeming with colorful fish, kelp forests, and even the occasional seal or dolphin sighting. The calmness of the sea makes it a popular destination for boating enthusiasts, who can sail along its tranquil waters and enjoy the breathtaking coastal views.

Moving inland, the estuary at Caolas na Brathan is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The surrounding marshes and mudflats provide a rich feeding ground for a variety of bird species, including waders, ducks, and herons. During the migrating season, the estuary becomes a temporary home for flocks of geese and swans, creating a spectacle of nature's wonders.

Further inland, the creek at Caolas na Brathan winds its way through lush greenery and offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude. Surrounded by dense forests and wildflower meadows, the creek provides a serene setting for leisurely walks or picnics.

Caolas na Brathan is a place where land and sea seamlessly merge, providing a diverse and captivating natural environment for visitors to enjoy. Whether it's exploring the underwater world, observing the abundance of birdlife, or simply immersing oneself in the tranquility of the creek, this stunning location offers a truly memorable experience for all who visit.

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Caolas na Brathan Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.032114/-6.2528195 or Grid Reference NR3590. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The summit of Beinn Oronsay

A substantial and well-built cairn for a hill only 93m high. But Oronsay is a popular island to visit. It is tidal, and can be easily walked to from Colonsay except near low tide. There are the ruins of an Augustinian priory nearby. And the hill is low, and an easy walk! Just left of the cairn is Beinn Eibhne on the mainland of Colonsay.

Michael Earnshaw

Oronsay scarecrow

Oronsay is an RSPB reserve which is farmed to encourage an increase in the population of corncrakes

James Wood

Stabilised walls in Oronsay Priory

Alan Reid

Track to Oronsay Priory

An excellent track connects the farmland of Oronsay with the tidal route across the Strand.

Julian Paren

Descent to the Strand

A straight evenly falling path back to sea level.

Julian Paren

Land Rover track by the Strand, Oronsay

Having crossed the Strand, the track hugs the coast before heading inland.

Julian Paren

Landfall markers for the Strand crossing, Oronsay

An older standing stone on a prominent hillock and a newer marker at sea level show where the best route for crossing the Strand makes landfall.

Julian Paren

Track through the machair

These tracks are used daily by the RSPB staff who run around the island in their vehicles checking the welfare of the animals and birds.

Julian Paren

Track to Oronsay Farm and House

From this angle Oronsay Priory is hidden behind the buildings. The field adjacent to the track is full of wildflowers for the corncrakes who were rather noisy!

Julian Paren

Wildflower meadow, Oronsay

Located in front of the rather fine Oronsay House. The meadows are designed to provide habitat for the corncrakes that are attracted to the area.

Julian Paren

Tombstones at Oronsay Priory

Eighteen years on since NR3488 : Tombstones at Oronsay Priory. Spot the difference! One of the roofed buildings of Oronsay Priory contains an array of tombstones. Of the two raised off the floor one is reputed to be that of Sir Alexander Macdonald of Lochalsh, who died about 1498.

Julian Paren