Sgeir an Fheòir

Island in Argyllshire

Scotland

Sgeir an Fheòir

Isle of Coll airport Credit: Euan Nelson

Sgeir an Fheòir is a small uninhabited island located in Argyllshire, Scotland. Situated in the Inner Hebrides, it is part of the archipelago known as the Slate Islands. The island is approximately 1.5 hectares in size and is made up of rocky terrain with a scattering of vegetation.

The name "Sgeir an Fheòir" translates to "rock of the grass" in Gaelic, reflecting the island's sparse vegetation. It is believed to have been used historically as a grazing spot for livestock due to its name and limited grassy patches. The island is mainly composed of slate, which was once quarried extensively in the region.

Access to Sgeir an Fheòir is challenging as it is located offshore, about 1.5 kilometers southwest of the Isle of Seil. The island is often visited by boat enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and nature lovers due to its remote and untouched nature. It is known to be a haven for various bird species, including seabirds like gulls and cormorants.

The rugged coastline of Sgeir an Fheòir is home to several rock formations and small caves, adding to its scenic appeal. The surrounding waters are also rich in marine life, making it a popular spot for divers and snorkelers.

While there are no permanent residents or facilities on the island, visitors can explore its natural beauty and tranquility. However, it is important to note that as an uninhabited island, there may be limited amenities and visitors should come prepared with supplies and adhere to responsible tourism practices to preserve the island's delicate ecosystem.

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Sgeir an Fheòir Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.587033/-6.6230795 or Grid Reference NM1653. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Isle of Coll airport

Euan Nelson

Isle of Coll airport

A photograph of the airstrip serving Coll.

Euan Nelson

Breachacha Castle

Breachacha Castle was constructed sometime in the fifteenth century and rapidly became the scene of much internecine feuding between the Coll Macleans and the Duart Macleans.

Euan Nelson

Breachacha Castle (new)

This rather grand-looking mansion was built in 1750 by Hector Maclean, 13th of Coll, and in 1773 entertained Boswell and Johnson.

Euan Nelson

Breachacha beach

In the background are the 15th and 18th century castles at Breachacha.

Euan Nelson

Looking south from Ceann Fasachd

Looking due south, and the next bit of land is Islay.

Gordon Brown

Looking south-west from Ceann Fasachd

The island of Soa and outlying skerries in the distance.

Gordon Brown

Small rock outcrop on Ceann Fasachd

Gordon Brown

The runway at Coll Aerodrome

The terminal building can be seen to the right, with a small private plane parked nearby.

Gordon Brown

Coll machair

White and yellow flowers here, but elsewhere the purple of bloody cranesbill stains the banks with colour.

Gordon Brown

Track over the machair

This is the track from the parking place to Feall Bay. Vehicles obviously use it to save what is a very pleasant walk, although a sign at the car park asks them not to.

Gordon Brown

There's a corncrake in there somewhere!

Coll's machair in full bloom, and the haunting rasp of the corncrake calling. It's in there somewhere but this elusive bird cannot be seen in the long vegetation. The island of Bac Mor (Dutchman's Cap) in the right distance.

Gordon Brown