Ahavig

Island in Ross-shire

Scotland

Ahavig

Old field walls on northern slope of Cnoc Thorabroc The walls of this field, close to the coast, have been overgrown. Field features some lazy beds. — Old field walls on northern slope of Cnoc Thorabroc Credit: John Collister

Ahavig is a small island located off the coast of Ross-shire in the Scottish Highlands. With an area of approximately 1 square kilometer, it is known for its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere. The island is situated in the Inner Hebrides, surrounded by the azure waters of the North Atlantic Ocean.

Ahavig is characterized by its rugged coastline, dotted with picturesque cliffs and secluded coves. The island is primarily covered in grassy moorland, with scattered patches of heather and wildflowers adding bursts of color to the landscape. The absence of trees provides unobstructed panoramic views of the surrounding sea and nearby islands.

Despite its small size, Ahavig is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and razorbills can be spotted nesting along the cliffs, while seals and dolphins can often be seen swimming in the waters surrounding the island.

There are no permanent residents on Ahavig, and the island remains uninhabited. However, it attracts a small number of visitors who come to experience its tranquil and untouched environment. The lack of human development makes Ahavig a perfect destination for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature.

Access to Ahavig is by boat, with regular ferry services available from nearby ports. The island offers various walking trails, allowing visitors to explore its rugged terrain and discover its hidden treasures. Camping is permitted on the island, providing an opportunity for overnight stays amidst the breathtaking scenery.

Overall, Ahavig is a pristine and idyllic island, offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Show me another place!

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

Ahavig Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.448338/-6.3940717 or Grid Reference NB4359. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Old field walls on northern slope of Cnoc Thorabroc

The walls of this field, close to the coast, have been overgrown. Field features some lazy beds.

John Collister

Geodh'an Toa and headland at Tobha Ghabhsainn

Geodh'an Toa with Tobha Ghabhsainn behind. Small stone beach is near entrance to cave. Viewed from a sheep track at cliff edge at Druim o Thuath

John Collister

Gabhsann bho Thuath (North Galson)

A dark threatening sky above the houses at Gabhsann bho Thuath heralds the next vicious squall on a blustery day.

Anne Burgess

Near Gabhsann

Lines of breaking waves, and storm clouds building over the land, on a wild day on the west coast of Leòdhas near Gabhsann (Galson).

Anne Burgess

Reidheadal

The map shows as Reidheadal a gap in the rocks offshore here. It is hard to believe that such a place could have been used enough to acquire a name, given how exposed it is to the north-west. The sunshine is more an illusion than a reality - it was merely a gap between sharp squalls of blustery rain - and the next storm clouds are building over the sea.

Anne Burgess

Surf!

Waves breaking as they roll in towards the west coast of Leòdhas near Gabhsann. In fact the sea bed west of the Hebrides mostly slopes very gently, so the waves here are not nearly as impressive as they might be further south where there are sea cliffs.

Anne Burgess

Foreshore at Gabhsann

Beyond the Lewisian gneiss of the rocky shore, the white horses show that the wind is blowing at least Force 4-5.

Anne Burgess

Gabhsann bho Deas

Water from a nearby spring has carved a gap in the dunes, providing a peaceful frame for a view of a wild sea. The yellow flowers are Marsh Marigold, also known as Kingcups (Caltha palustris) which are typical of wet habitats like this.

Anne Burgess

Teampall nan CrÃ² Naomh

One of the parts still standing of the mediaeval Church of the Holy Blood. It is a protected monument. See Link

Anne Burgess

Teampall nan CrÃ² Naomh

The more distant building is that in NB4359 : Teampall nan Crò Naomh. The burial ground still seems to be in use; the boulders in the grass mark the sites of lairs, and some are marked with the addresses of the crofts to which the lairs belong.

Anne Burgess

Galson: postbox № HS2 74 and phone

The postbox is one of a great minority on the Western Isles in being set into a wall. It is at the crossroads of the A857 and is probably in the wall of the old post office (the present post office is half a mile or so along the side-road).

Chris Downer

Galson: the A857 from Ness

The A857 approaches Galson from the north, going into a dip where it crosses the river, Abhainn Gabhsann bho Thuath (i.e. north Galson river, Ghabsann equating to Galson).

Chris Downer