Geodha na Làire

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Ross-shire

Scotland

Geodha na Làire

Chicken Head and Chicken Rock The rocks lying off Chicken Head are called Hen & Chickens and Cock Rock.  The paddle steamer HMS Lively ran aground on the rocks in 1883 and was wrecked (all aboard were rescued). The scattered wreckage of the Lively is marked by the yellow buoy at position 59°10.610’N, 06°15.467’W in depths up to 15 metres (<span class="nowrap"><a title="https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/hms-lively/" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/hms-lively/">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Scottish Shipwrecks).
Chicken Head and Chicken Rock Credit: David Dixon

Geodha na Làire is a captivating coastal feature located in Ross-shire, Scotland. Positioned on the northwest coast of the Highlands, it is specifically situated on the edge of the village of Aultbea. Geodha na Làire is best described as a headland or point that extends out into the shimmering waters of Loch Ewe.

This stunning coastal feature is characterized by its rugged and dramatic landscape, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. The headland is predominantly composed of rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops, providing a natural barrier against the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. The rocky terrain is interspersed with patches of lush green vegetation, adding to its picturesque beauty.

Geodha na Làire serves as a popular destination for both locals and tourists, who are drawn to its natural charm and scenic allure. Its strategic location offers a vantage point for observing the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area, including seals, seabirds, and even the occasional dolphin or whale.

The headland is easily accessible via a well-maintained footpath that winds its way along the coastline. Visitors can embark on leisurely walks, taking in the awe-inspiring vistas and immersing themselves in the tranquility of the area. Additionally, there are picnic areas and benches strategically placed along the route, encouraging visitors to pause and appreciate the breathtaking surroundings.

Overall, Geodha na Làire is a captivating coastal feature that showcases the natural beauty of Ross-shire. Its rugged cliffs, picturesque views, and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking solace in the stunning Scottish Highlands.

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Geodha na Làire Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.180493/-6.2498472 or Grid Reference NB5029. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Chicken Head and Chicken Rock The rocks lying off Chicken Head are called Hen & Chickens and Cock Rock.  The paddle steamer HMS Lively ran aground on the rocks in 1883 and was wrecked (all aboard were rescued). The scattered wreckage of the Lively is marked by the yellow buoy at position 59°10.610’N, 06°15.467’W in depths up to 15 metres (<span class="nowrap"><a title="https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/hms-lively/" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://www.scottishshipwrecks.com/hms-lively/">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Scottish Shipwrecks).
Chicken Head and Chicken Rock
The rocks lying off Chicken Head are called Hen & Chickens and Cock Rock. The paddle steamer HMS Lively ran aground on the rocks in 1883 and was wrecked (all aboard were rescued). The scattered wreckage of the Lively is marked by the yellow buoy at position 59°10.610’N, 06°15.467’W in depths up to 15 metres (LinkExternal link Scottish Shipwrecks).
Isle of Lewis, cliffs on the Eye Peninsula
Isle of Lewis, cliffs on the Eye Peninsula
Eilean a' Crotaich A small islet off the Eye peninsula on Lewis.
Eilean a' Crotaich
A small islet off the Eye peninsula on Lewis.
Eilean a Crotaich A prominent islet off the Eye Peninsula. Chicken Head can be seen in the distance.
Eilean a Crotaich
A prominent islet off the Eye Peninsula. Chicken Head can be seen in the distance.
Site of Ancient Temple According to the map this area is the site of the remains of an ancient temple. Despite a lengthy search I couldn't find any sign of it but the view more than made up for the disappointment and the long hike!
Site of Ancient Temple
According to the map this area is the site of the remains of an ancient temple. Despite a lengthy search I couldn't find any sign of it but the view more than made up for the disappointment and the long hike!
The Muddy Pool Never have I been more disappointed. After walking a fair way to photograph Loch Cuilc I was confronted with this muddy pool. At first I thought I'd got the co-ordinates wrong but no....this is it!
The Muddy Pool
Never have I been more disappointed. After walking a fair way to photograph Loch Cuilc I was confronted with this muddy pool. At first I thought I'd got the co-ordinates wrong but no....this is it!
Chicken Head The red beacon marking Chicken Rock is seen centre of frame with Chicken Head prominent behind it and Eilean Croitach to extreme right.
The name of this headland is misleading in that in Old Norse it would have been "Kirk Ness" meaning the point or headland with a Church.
The Scottish Gaelic word for "chicken" is "Cearc" which is similar in pronunciation to "Kirk" (Church). The translations were mixed up so we have finished up with "Chicken Head" on the modern maps.
Chicken Head
The red beacon marking Chicken Rock is seen centre of frame with Chicken Head prominent behind it and Eilean Croitach to extreme right. The name of this headland is misleading in that in Old Norse it would have been "Kirk Ness" meaning the point or headland with a Church. The Scottish Gaelic word for "chicken" is "Cearc" which is similar in pronunciation to "Kirk" (Church). The translations were mixed up so we have finished up with "Chicken Head" on the modern maps.
The coastline in Geodh a Chuibhrig Suardail can be seen in the background
The coastline in Geodh a Chuibhrig
Suardail can be seen in the background
A burn on the common grazings
A burn on the common grazings
Chicken Rock Chicken Head and Eilean Crotach in distance.
Chicken Rock
Chicken Head and Eilean Crotach in distance.
Chicken Head Viewed from the causeway across to the Eye Peninsula.
Chicken Head
Viewed from the causeway across to the Eye Peninsula.
Bayble Hill trig
Bayble Hill trig
Roads of An Rubha
Roads of An Rubha
House with peat stack at Suardail This is one of several recently-built houses in the area.  The well-stocked peat stack belongs not to the house shown, but to its neighbour, just out of shot on the right.
House with peat stack at Suardail
This is one of several recently-built houses in the area. The well-stocked peat stack belongs not to the house shown, but to its neighbour, just out of shot on the right.
Buttercup invasion on the croft No longer worked, this croft is becoming overgrown.  A new house is being built on the neighbouring croft (right of photo).
Buttercup invasion on the croft
No longer worked, this croft is becoming overgrown. A new house is being built on the neighbouring croft (right of photo).
Stac Shuardal in the late evening sun
Stac Shuardal in the late evening sun
Show me another place!

Geodha na Làire is located at Grid Ref: NB5029 (Lat: 58.180493, Lng: -6.2498472)

Unitary Authority: Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///hope.utter.natural. Near Stornoway, Na h-Eileanan Siar

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