Àird Gharbh

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Ross-shire

Scotland

Àird Gharbh

Shore at Cuidhir Rocky shoreline backed by equally rocky hills at the Cuidhir road end. — Shore at Cuidhir Credit: Colin Smith

Àird Gharbh, located in Ross-shire, Scotland, is a prominent coastal feature known for its picturesque headland and point. Situated on the eastern coast of the Scottish Highlands, Àird Gharbh offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the North Sea.

This captivating headland is characterized by its rugged cliffs, which rise dramatically from the sea, creating a stunning natural spectacle. The cliffs are composed of ancient rock formations, showcasing the geological history of the region. The headland is also home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, making it an important ecological site.

The point of Àird Gharbh extends into the North Sea, serving as a navigational landmark for seafarers and a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Its exposed location makes it susceptible to the powerful forces of the sea, resulting in the formation of sea caves and arches along the coastline. These natural formations have become iconic features of Àird Gharbh, attracting visitors from far and wide.

Visitors to Àird Gharbh can explore the headland and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding coastal scenery. The site offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and contemplation. Birdwatchers will also find a haven here, as the headland is a popular spot for seabirds, including gulls, kittiwakes, and puffins.

In summary, Àird Gharbh is a captivating coastal feature in Ross-shire, Scotland, offering visitors a combination of stunning cliffs, unique rock formations, and diverse wildlife. Its natural beauty and serene ambiance make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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Àird Gharbh Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.140245/-6.4081912 or Grid Reference NB4025. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Shore at Cuidhir

Rocky shoreline backed by equally rocky hills at the Cuidhir road end.

Colin Smith

Evening at Cuidhir

Rowing boat, in the evening sunshine, pulled up onto the grass above the small, rocky cove at Cuidhir.

Colin Smith

Grimshader Salmon Farm

Marine Harvest - Arachas Bhratan Griomshadair. Sea loch industry on the shores of Loch Griomsiadair.

Colin Smith

Loch Griomsiadair

Yacht and lobster boat moored in the sheltered sea loch at Grimshader which is also used for salmon farming.

Colin Smith

Loch Lighigeag with Beinn-MhÃ²r in the background

Mike Dunn

Small inlet near Eilean Glas

Mike Dunn

Coastline

Mike Dunn

Loch Grimshader

Ordnance survey maps show two Loch Grimshaders! One is the sea loch as shown on NB3925; the second is this small freshwater loch in the village of Grimshader. It seems likely that the ordnance survey got it wrong many years ago when it first named the sea loch as Loch Grimshader. Its name was originally Loch Hurnavay. This freshwater loch has a small island in it. Although I have found no archaeological reference to it, I suspect that the island is possibly a crannog, as it has a sunken overgrown interior within a ring of large stones and boulders. The loch is good for brown trout and eels. The village, Grimshader, takes its name from the Norse, and means Grim's summer pasture.

londonaye

Grimshader's 'Peat Road'

This track is used by local crofters to reach their flocks grazing on the open moorland, and by some villagers who cut peat for fuel.

londonaye

Peat Cuttings, Bog Cotton and Water Tower

The peat cuttings just right of centre in this photograph were, until recently, worked by Torcuil MacRath (Torquil MacRae), a Gaelic poet and author of some distinction who died late in 2006. A wonderful character and a good neighbour, it was our privilege and pleasure to count him as a friend during the few years my family and I have lived here. I now work these peat cuttings myself. While much of the UK has suffered a wet spring and summer in 2007, the weather on the Isle of Lewis has been relatively dry. Perhaps this accounts for the fine crop of bog cotton seen on the moorland this year. On the horizon is a water tower, no longer used.

londonaye

Loch nan Capull

Loch nan Capull (the loch of the colt). A reasonably good trout loch.

londonaye

Wrecked car at end of the peat road

This car graces the far end of Grimshaders peat road. Although the tyres appear in good order, it is probable that the vehicle would fail its MoT on other counts.

londonaye

Loch Beinn Bhreac

This loch is unusual in that no streams run into it, and no (surface) streams run out of it, as it is drained by an underground stream running through the peat. It is not believed to contain any fish.

londonaye

Boats at Cuidhir Loch Leurbost

The Islands of Tabhaidh Bheag and Tabhaidh are clearly seen in distance.

JJM

Entrance to Loch Grimshader

Loch Grimshader is the first Sea Loch South of Stornoway. Ben Casgro prominent on North Side of Loch.

JJM

Eilean Bhatarsaidh

Unnamed Islet in foreground and Stac at Loch Erisort Entrance in distance (left of frame). Collectively these Islands are referred to as Na h-Eileanan Bairclin or Barkin Isles.

JJM