Àird Riabhach

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Àird Riabhach

Carnach and Sàil a' Charnain View from Scalpay Bridge.
Carnach and Sàil a' Charnain Credit: Sandy Gerrard

Àird Riabhach is a prominent coastal feature located in Inverness-shire, Scotland. It is a headland that juts out into the North Atlantic Ocean, forming a distinctive point along the rugged coastline. The name Àird Riabhach translates to "grey point" in English, which aptly describes the color of the rock formations that dominate the area.

The headland is characterized by its dramatic cliffs, which rise steeply from the sea, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. These cliffs are composed of sedimentary rocks, mainly sandstone and shale, which have been weathered and eroded over millions of years, creating unique geological formations. The coastal erosion has also formed sea caves, natural arches, and stacks, adding to the charm of Àird Riabhach.

The headland is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, as it provides a habitat for various bird species, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. Seals and dolphins can often be spotted swimming in the waters surrounding the point, making it a popular spot for wildlife watching.

Àird Riabhach is also of historical significance, with evidence of human occupation dating back to the Iron Age. Archaeological remains, such as ancient settlements and burial sites, have been discovered in the vicinity, providing valuable insights into the region's past.

Overall, Àird Riabhach is a captivating coastal feature that offers a combination of natural beauty, geological interest, and historical significance. Whether visitors are seeking stunning views, wildlife encounters, or a glimpse into Scotland's history, this headland provides a truly memorable experience.

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Àird Riabhach Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.87299/-6.6594434 or Grid Reference NG2396. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Carnach and Sàil a' Charnain View from Scalpay Bridge.
Carnach and Sàil a' Charnain
View from Scalpay Bridge.
Track to Eilean Glas Lighthouse There is some small-scale peat cutting immediately next to the track.
Track to Eilean Glas Lighthouse
There is some small-scale peat cutting immediately next to the track.
Footpath to Eilean Glas Lighthouse The path is in good condition and a pleasure to walk on.
Footpath to Eilean Glas Lighthouse
The path is in good condition and a pleasure to walk on.
A lochan on the Heritage Trail to Scalpay Lighthouse The trail is spongy underfoot but well maintained. On the horizon left of centre you can see the Shiant Islands and that's Scalpay Lighthouse lying off the cliffs to the right.
A lochan on the Heritage Trail to Scalpay Lighthouse
The trail is spongy underfoot but well maintained. On the horizon left of centre you can see the Shiant Islands and that's Scalpay Lighthouse lying off the cliffs to the right.
House on Scalpay/Scalpaigh In need of some restoration.
House on Scalpay/Scalpaigh
In need of some restoration.
Tidy pier near Carnach Assorted 'stuff' neatly stowed on the pier. Overlooking Caolas Scalpaigh, with Scalpay/Scalpaigh and the southern pier of the bridge beyond.
Tidy pier near Carnach
Assorted 'stuff' neatly stowed on the pier. Overlooking Caolas Scalpaigh, with Scalpay/Scalpaigh and the southern pier of the bridge beyond.
Bàgh Ceann na Muice Or Bagh Ceann na Muise [OS spelling varies from scale to scale]. Looking across rocky grasslend from the road to Ceann a Bhàigh.
Bàgh Ceann na Muice
Or Bagh Ceann na Muise [OS spelling varies from scale to scale]. Looking across rocky grasslend from the road to Ceann a Bhàigh.
House on Straid Falkland Overlooking An Acairseid a Deas near Ceann a Bhàigh.
House on Straid Falkland
Overlooking An Acairseid a Deas near Ceann a Bhàigh.
Moored fishing boats at Carnach With Scalpay/Scalpaigh and the bridge from Harris beyond.
Moored fishing boats at Carnach
With Scalpay/Scalpaigh and the bridge from Harris beyond.
The Scalpay ferry ramp at Carnach The Harris-Scalpay ferry has now been replaced by the bridge <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/564358">NG2197 : Scalpay bridge</a>.
The Scalpay ferry ramp at Carnach
The Harris-Scalpay ferry has now been replaced by the bridge NG2197 : Scalpay bridge.
Coast at Ceann a Bhàigh The end of the road at the southern end of Scalpay/Scalpaigh, over looking Loch an Tairbeairt.
Coast at Ceann a Bhàigh
The end of the road at the southern end of Scalpay/Scalpaigh, over looking Loch an Tairbeairt.
Rocky grassland at Ceann a Bhàigh Otherwise Kennavay, at the south of Scalpay.
Rocky grassland at Ceann a Bhàigh
Otherwise Kennavay, at the south of Scalpay.
Houses at Ceann a Bhàigh Nearing to end of the road at the south of Scalpay.
Houses at Ceann a Bhàigh
Nearing to end of the road at the south of Scalpay.
Ceann a Bhàigh on Scalpay/Scalpaigh Heading back north.
Ceann a Bhàigh on Scalpay/Scalpaigh
Heading back north.
End of the road, Scalpay
End of the road, Scalpay
Abandoned house, Scalpay
Abandoned house, Scalpay
Loch an Duin, Scalpay.
Loch an Duin, Scalpay.
View from Scalpay, facing North West to the Harris hills Picture taken at the end of November, with the first snow showing on the tops. A large portion of Sclapay is crofted, with sheep farming and fishing for shellfish the main industries.
View from Scalpay, facing North West to the Harris hills
Picture taken at the end of November, with the first snow showing on the tops. A large portion of Sclapay is crofted, with sheep farming and fishing for shellfish the main industries.
Show me another place!

Àird Riabhach is located at Grid Ref: NG2396 (Lat: 57.87299, Lng: -6.6594434)

Unitary Authority: Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///figs.relies.vivid. Near Tarbert, Na h-Eileanan Siar

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