Eilean Beag Reilean

Island in Argyllshire

Scotland

Eilean Beag Reilean

Slopes of Beinn Eolasary A sharp reentrant which is marked as a fault on the solid geology map. — Slopes of Beinn Eolasary Credit: Richard Webb

Eilean Beag Reilean is a small island located in Argyllshire, Scotland. It is situated in the Inner Hebrides, specifically within the Firth of Lorn. The island is approximately 1.5 miles long and 0.5 miles wide, encompassing an area of around 0.5 square miles.

Eilean Beag Reilean is known for its rugged and picturesque landscape. The island is characterized by rocky cliffs and hills, covered in patches of grass and heather. It is surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Firth of Lorn, creating a stunning contrast with the greenery of the island.

The island is uninhabited, with no permanent residents or infrastructure. However, it attracts visitors who are drawn to its natural beauty and tranquility. The lack of development and human activity make it an ideal spot for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers. The island is home to various species of birds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills.

Access to Eilean Beag Reilean is primarily by boat, with several tour operators offering trips to the island. Visitors can explore the island on foot, taking in the breathtaking views and observing the abundant wildlife. The rocky coastline also provides opportunities for adventurous individuals to indulge in activities such as rock climbing and sea kayaking.

Eilean Beag Reilean offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its untouched natural beauty and rich wildlife make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the Scottish wilderness.

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Eilean Beag Reilean Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.468269/-6.2233568 or Grid Reference NM3938. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Slopes of Beinn Eolasary

A sharp reentrant which is marked as a fault on the solid geology map.

Richard Webb

Top layer of the cake: Beinn Eolasary

The highest lava flow in Ulva's traps makes an impressive crag. The rock is very slippery though as I found out the hard way when trying to get through at a weakness.

Richard Webb

Summit, Beinn Eolasary

A flat basalt table on top of Ulva's highest trap lava flow.

Richard Webb

On Beinn Eolasary

The crags are the upper lava flow on Ulva, the top layer in the stepped landscape of the island.

Richard Webb

Dry stone dyke, Ulva

A wall running across the island between Beinn Eolasary and Beinn Chreagach, the two main hills.

Richard Webb

The lochan on Beinn an Lochain, Ulva

Trap landscape seen from moorland on Beinn Chreagach

Richard Webb

Traps, Beinn Eolasary

Ulva's distinctive stepped landscape, seen from Beinn Chreagach.

Richard Webb

Beinn Chreagach, Ulva

View from Beinn Eolasary showing the Ulva trap landscape formed by successive lava flows.

Richard Webb

One step to go - Beinn Chreagach

Approaching the summit of the stepped hill - caused by successive lava flows.

Richard Webb

Beinn Chreagach trig pillar

Richard Webb

Crag, Beinn Chreagach

The stepped appearance of Ulva is due to a succession of lava flows.

Richard Webb

Eastern Ulva

View from near the summit of Beinn Chreagach towards the narrow Sound of Ulva and wooded eastern end of the island.

Richard Webb

Moorland on Beinn Chreagach, Ulva

Seasonal pools below the summit.

Richard Webb

South side of Ulva

Looking along the coast from near Cille Mhic Eoghainn. I escaped the coastal plain by the skyline ridge which was "interesting". Little Colonsay is the larger island in the background.

Richard Webb

South side path, Ulva

West of Cragaig, it is a matter of luck using the path in Summer. I was lucky, a quadbike had passed recently but the path was choked after the big nose above Cille Mhic Eoghainn. Bracken is quite an adversary on Ulva.

Richard Webb