Ach' a Ghearraiseich

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Sutherland

Scotland

Ach' a Ghearraiseich

Sheep grazing beside Loch Eriboll Ard Neackie in the centre. — Sheep grazing beside Loch Eriboll Credit: Russel Wills

Ach' a Ghearraiseich is a prominent coastal feature located in Sutherland, a county in the northernmost part of Scotland. It is specifically classified as a headland or point due to its distinct geographical attributes. Situated along the rugged coastline of the North Atlantic Ocean, Ach' a Ghearraiseich boasts impressive cliffs that rise dramatically from the sea, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The headland is characterized by its towering and jagged rock formations, which have been shaped by centuries of erosion caused by the relentless crashing waves. These rock formations are composed of various types of sedimentary rocks, including sandstone and shale, which add to the visual appeal of the site.

Ach' a Ghearraiseich is not only visually stunning but also serves as an important habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna. The headland's rocky surfaces provide nesting grounds for seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. In addition, the surrounding waters are home to a variety of marine life, including seals, dolphins, and even occasional sightings of whales.

This coastal feature also holds historical significance, as it has witnessed human activity for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that ancient settlements were once present in the area, with remnants of ancient structures and tools discovered nearby. Today, Ach' a Ghearraiseich is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to appreciate its natural beauty, explore its rich history, and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding coastal environment.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Ach' a Ghearraiseich Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.481876/-4.6630114 or Grid Reference NC4457. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Sheep grazing beside Loch Eriboll

Ard Neackie in the centre.

Russel Wills

Lime kilns on Ard Neackie

The four large lime kilns were built in 1870. The Reay estate produced large amounts of lime here and on the nearby island of Eilean Choraidh and loaded it into ships at the quay.

Russel Wills

An t- SrÃ²n and Loch Eriboll

With the settlement of Kempie on the left. The A838 making its way over the top of An t- Sròn.

Russel Wills

Gorse in full bloom overlooking Ard Neackie

Loch Eriboll and its environs offer some of Scotland's finest and wildest scenery.

Des Colhoun

The pier and lime kilns of Ard Neackie

Des Colhoun

Eriboll kirk, a Church of Scotland outpost

Des Colhoun

Loch Eriboll & Ãrd Neackie

From the end of the mountain path between Beinn Ceannabeinne & Meall Meadhonach (a small cairn is just visible). Ben Loyal & Ben Hope can also be seen in the background.

Alan Murray Walsh

The A838 on the eastern edge of Loch Eriboll

Carron K

An t-Sron, Loch Eriboll

An t-Sron (The Nose), a rocky promontory on the coast of Loch Eriboll.

david glass

Loch Eriboll

Limestone coast on the east side of Loch Eriboll.

david glass

Inbhirean, a harbour at Loch Eriboll

Stones have been cleared from the shore to create a landing place for boats.

david glass

Aspen Tree

An Aspen clinging to a crag where deer cannot reach it.

david glass

Moorland above Eriboll

The southern slopes of Ben Arnaboll.

david glass

Glac an Tioraidh

This hollow is at the head of a valley where it reaches the watershed between Loch Eriboll and Loch Hope.

david glass

Allt Glac an Tioraidh

A burn above Eriboll.

david glass

Meall Bad a' Mhartuin

Meall Bad a' Mhartuin viewed from the col to the south.

david glass

Ard Neackie and pier

Ard Neakie was used as the eastern terminus of the Heilam Ferry, which crossed the loch to the Heilam Inn on the west bank of the loch at Portnancon. The ferry ceased operation in the 1890s when the road around the loch was completed, but the ferry house built in 1831 still stands, though sadly increasingly derelict. Ard Neakie is also notable for the four large lime kilns built in 1870. The Reay estate produced large amounts of lime here and on the nearby island of Eilean Choraidh and loaded it into ships. Almost an island, Ard Neackie is linked to the mainland by a tombolo.

Bob Jones