Sgeir a' Chàrrain

Island in Ross-shire

Scotland

Sgeir a' Chàrrain

Old milestone This milestone 14 miles south of Barvas on the A858 has gained a few more lichens since last being recorded for the Milestone Society. It is beneath Cnoc Leathann about 0.15 mile south of a cattle grid and halfway between Carloway (Càrlabhaigh) and Breasclete (Breascleit). — Old milestone Credit: Jon Glew

Sgeir a' Chàrrain is a small uninhabited island located off the coast of Ross-shire, Scotland. Also known as Carron Skerry, this island is situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, approximately 2 miles northeast of the mainland. The island covers an area of about 2.6 hectares and is composed mainly of rocky terrain.

Sgeir a' Chàrrain is a popular spot for birdwatchers due to its abundant birdlife. The island is home to a variety of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes. These birds find refuge on the island, using it as a breeding ground during the spring and summer months.

The island's rocky shores offer a unique habitat for marine life as well. Visitors may spot seals and otters in the surrounding waters, while the rock pools provide a glimpse into the diverse marine ecosystem found in the area.

Access to Sgeir a' Chàrrain can be challenging, as there are no regular ferry services or landing facilities. However, boat trips and guided tours are available from nearby coastal towns, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the island's natural beauty.

With its stunning scenery and rich wildlife, Sgeir a' Chàrrain offers a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a remote and untouched environment. Whether it's birdwatching, photography, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings, this tiny island promises a memorable experience for all who venture to its shores.

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Sgeir a' Chàrrain Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.248341/-6.8011276 or Grid Reference NB1838. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Old milestone

This milestone 14 miles south of Barvas on the A858 has gained a few more lichens since last being recorded for the Milestone Society. It is beneath Cnoc Leathann about 0.15 mile south of a cattle grid and halfway between Carloway (Càrlabhaigh) and Breasclete (Breascleit).

Jon Glew

Old milestone

This shows how close to the edge of the A858 the milestone below Cnoc Leathann is. However it is beyond a shallow ditch.

Jon Glew

Dun in Loch an DÃ¹nain

Relatively well preserved dun close to the main road Link

Sandy Gerrard

Doune Braes Hotel

David Dixon

Loch an DÃ¹nain

David Dixon

Isle of Lewis, Loch an DÃ¹nain

David Dixon

View towards Tolsta Chaolais

David Dixon

West Point

David Dixon

The Road to Tolsta Chaolais

David Dixon

Port a' Chaoil

Stream flowing from Loch a' Bhaile enters Loch Rog an Ear, a sea loch, at Aird na Moine.

Colin Smith

Loch a' Bhaile

The narrow loch, hemmed in by steep hillsides, flows out into Loch Rog an Ear, a sea loch, via a short river.

Colin Smith

Loch a' Bhaile

Loch a' Bhaile & Tolastadh a' Chaolais beyond.

Vanhercke Christiaan

Tolstachaolais: the post office

While many post offices have a buzzer which sounds as the door opens, the postmistress here is alerted to the arrival of customers by the loud bark of the dog tethered to the outside wall.

Chris Downer

Tolstachaolais: along the shore of Loch a' Bhaile

Looking across the loch, which runs alongside the road through the village. However, this is the far side that we are looking along.

Chris Downer

Tolstachaolais: postbox № HS2 62

This postbox stands more or less in the centre of the village, in front of a house that is set particularly well back from the road. The larger-scale map still marks that house as a post office, although it has actually (as reflected in the 1:50,000 and 1:25,000 map) relocated just over a kilometre to the north - see NB1939 : Tolstachaolais: the post office.

Chris Downer

Tolstachaolais: Loch aâ Bhaile

Looking down this loch from its northern end, with the main part of the village visible far right.

Chris Downer

Tolstachaolais: hillside cows and Bernera view

Looking across the sound separating the eastern side of Bernera from the Lewis mainland, beyond three cows grazing on the slopes to the south of Tolstachaolais village.

Chris Downer