Sgeir na h-loladh

Island in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Sgeir na h-loladh

Wet view towards Leverburgh Looking north west down Gleann Shranndabhal on a very wet November morning. — Wet view towards Leverburgh Credit: Richard Dorrell

Sgeir na h-Loladh is a small uninhabited island located off the coast of Inverness-shire in the Scottish Highlands. The name translates to "island of the skulls" in Gaelic, which reflects the island's historical significance and intriguing past.

Situated in the Moray Firth, Sgeir na h-Loladh is a rocky outcrop that measures approximately 200 meters in length and 50 meters in width. The island is known for its rough and rugged terrain, with sheer cliffs rising from the sea and providing a dramatic backdrop. It is primarily composed of basalt and is home to various seabird colonies, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills.

In terms of human history, Sgeir na h-Loladh has long been associated with fishing and maritime activities. It is believed that the island served as a lookout point for fishermen, who would set sail from nearby towns and villages. Over the years, many fishing boats have been wrecked in the treacherous waters surrounding the island, adding to its mystique.

Today, Sgeir na h-Loladh is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Access to the island is limited due to its remote location and rugged terrain. Visitors can admire the impressive cliffs and observe the diverse birdlife from a distance, but landing on the island is not recommended due to safety concerns.

In summary, Sgeir na h-Loladh is a small, uninhabited island off the coast of Inverness-shire known for its rugged beauty and historical significance. It offers a glimpse into Scotland's maritime heritage and provides a haven for various seabird colonies.

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Sgeir na h-loladh Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.74668/-6.9956399 or Grid Reference NG0283. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Wet view towards Leverburgh

Looking north west down Gleann Shranndabhal on a very wet November morning.

Richard Dorrell

Roghadal

Looking north west over the wall of the churchyard.

Richard Dorrell

Derelict building, Roghadal

The building is Category B listed. There is a staircase on the front to a first floor door, while access to the ground floor is from the rear. Most recently in use for storage or as a byre, the presence of chimneys suggest that at least part of the building may at one time have been residential. See also: NG0483 : Derelict House at Roghadal.

Richard Dorrell

Looking south towards Rodel, Harris, 1989

Nigel Thompson

Signpost at Borghasdal

The motorable road ends here, but a track allows pedestrians to carry on to Rogahadal (Rodel).

Anne Burgess

Borghasdal

A newish house stands alone beside the track to Roghadal.

Anne Burgess

Garden Wall

The dyke around the garden of this house at Borghasdal has been elaborately decorated with shells, pebbles and rock fragments.

Anne Burgess

Corrugated Iron Sheds

Colourful if somewhat dilapidated. The closest one was the local Post Office for half a century. See NG0383 : Strond: the old post office.

Anne Burgess

House at Borghasdal

Looking north-west along the road towards Srannda (Strond).

Anne Burgess

Srannda (Strond)

Looking down over small rough fields to the sea, with a distant glimpse of Berneray and North Uist beyond.

Anne Burgess

Wooden House at Srannda

Wooden houses are unusual in the Hebrides, but this one looks quite in harmony with its surroundings. In the distance is a glimpse of North Uist.

Anne Burgess

Cairminis (Carminish)

Bagh Cairminis (Carminish Bay) is well sheltered by Eilean nan Bridianach, which is actually a peninsula rather than an island.

Anne Burgess

BÃ gh ChÃ irminis

Carminish Bay is a sheltered tidal inlet, but too shallow to offer safe anchorage to more than a very small boat.

Anne Burgess

Reflections

The house at the head of Bàgh Chàirminis (Carminish Bay) is reflected in the mirror-like water.

Anne Burgess

Field Access

It may be that the end of the access road here is sometimes used to pen livestock.

Anne Burgess

Old Lazybeds

The parallel lines in this field are the remains of lazybeds. These are raised beds which are separated by ditches to assist in draining the land. They can be found all over the Hebrides, but few are still in regular cultivation.

Anne Burgess

Near CÃ irminis

I think the nearest island is Eilean Chàirminis (Carminish Island).

Anne Burgess

Grocis North Buoy

The buoy is red, indicating that it is a port hand buoy, so of you are sailing in the direction of buoyage you leave it to your left as you pass. Beyond it is the beacon on Grocis Sgeir.

Anne Burgess

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Sgeir na h-loladh is located at Grid Ref: NG0283 (Lat: 57.74668, Lng: -6.9956399)

Unitary Authority: Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands