Aoinaig Mhòr

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Ross-shire

Scotland

Aoinaig Mhòr

Caolas a Tuath A panoramic view down the length of the channel. — Caolas a Tuath Credit: Rob Burke

Aoinaig Mhòr is a prominent coastal feature located in Ross-shire, Scotland. It is a headland that juts out into the waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, forming a distinct point along the coastline. The name "Aoinaig Mhòr" is derived from Gaelic, with "Aoinaig" meaning headland or promontory, and "Mhòr" meaning large or great.

This headland is known for its dramatic and rugged landscape, characterized by steep cliffs that plunge into the sea below. The cliffs are composed of various types of rock, including sandstone and shale, which have been shaped by the relentless force of the waves over time. The sheer height of the cliffs provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and the vast expanse of the ocean.

Aoinaig Mhòr is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts. Seabirds such as gannets, guillemots, and puffins can be spotted nesting on the cliffs, while seals can often be seen basking on the rocky shores. The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, including dolphins, porpoises, and even occasional sightings of whales.

The headland is easily accessible via a coastal path, which allows visitors to explore its rugged beauty up close. The path winds its way along the cliff edge, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for photography. It is important to exercise caution when visiting Aoinaig Mhòr, as the cliffs can be dangerous and unpredictable, and it is advisable to stay on designated paths and follow any safety guidelines provided.

In summary, Aoinaig Mhòr is a stunning and picturesque headland in Ross-shire, Scotland. Its towering cliffs, diverse wildlife, and panoramic vistas make it a captivating destination for nature lovers and those seeking a glimpse of Scotland's rugged coastal beauty.

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Aoinaig Mhòr Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.010471/-6.4763054 or Grid Reference NB3511. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Caolas a Tuath

A panoramic view down the length of the channel.

Rob Burke

The abandoned township of Stiomrabhaigh

Mike Dunn

Islands on Loch Shaghachain

Mike Dunn

The township of Stiomrabhaigh looking North West

Mike Dunn

Lemreway Island - Eilean Iubhaird

A stunning view from the road end at Aird a' Chaolais looking across the sea loch to Eilean Iubhaird

Donald Lawson

Orasaigh with view of Shiant Islands

Rose and Trev Clough

Orasaigh from top of footpath steps

Rose and Trev Clough

Loch near Giearol

Rose and Trev Clough

Ruined blackhouse at Stiomrabhaig

The census of 1851 shows that the village consisted of 16 dwellings and supported a population of 81. By 1858 there were none. Clearances had been well underway in the area during the first half of the 19th century; many of them brutal and uncaring. The residents of Stiomrabhaigh were better placed of than most, having leases directly with the land owner. But when these expired, they accepted an offer of crofts in Leumrabhagh. Lewis was relatively prosperous right up until World War I, which put an end to the herring trade with Russia and Eastern Europe and in spite of the clearances, the increasing population put pressure on land. There were numerous requests to resettle Stiomrabhaigh, all of which were resisted by the landowners and it was not until 1921 when Lord Leverhulme abandoned his ambitious plan for Lewis that crofters returned to the township. Even the resettlement was marked with tragedy as two young men were drowned while transporting household goods from Calbost. These settlers were never officially recognized as crofters by the government; they received no help and no road was built to the township. Given the difficulties of living without facilities, over the next twenty years, a number of the families drifted back to Leumrabhagh. At the start of World War II only two families remained and by the end of the 1940’s, Stiomrabhaigh was once again deserted. Today there is much of the township to be seen; its ruined buildings, lazybeds and field walls standing in splendid isolation between the moor and the sea.

Richard Barrett

Glen Orinsay

A marker post on the footpath to the deserted village of Stiomrabhaigh in front of the greens and browns of Glen Orinsay.

Richard Barrett

Caolas a Tuath bay

Leumrabhagh looking out to Eilean Liubhaird (Edward's Isle), past the islands of Sgeir Ghlas (Green Isle) and Sgeir Fraoich (Heather Isle) in Caolas a'Tuath (North Strait).

Duncan Grey

The road to Orasaigh

Looking towards Orinsay Island

Duncan Grey

House at Orasaigh

Looking towards Shiant Islands

Duncan Grey

Orasaigh

Duncan Grey

Orasaigh hills

Duncan Grey

Coastal view, Orasaigh

One would assume that the name 'Orasaigh' refers to the small island [centre left], as well as the community. The island is accessible at low tide, like several Oronsay and Orasay islands around the west coast.

Gordon Hatton