Sgeirean Dubha

Island in Argyllshire

Scotland

Sgeirean Dubha

Eileach an Naoimh The southern end of the southernmost Garvellach Islands. To the right of centre is a small light, which does not seem to be mainstream light, but is maintained as a tourist attraction [!] by the Northern Lighthouse Board. — Eileach an Naoimh Credit: M J Richardson

Sgeirean Dubha, located in Argyllshire, is a group of small islands situated on the west coast of Scotland. These islands are part of the Inner Hebrides and are known for their rugged and picturesque landscapes. Sgeirean Dubha is made up of several islets, with the largest being Eilean Dubh Mor.

The islands are characterized by rocky coastlines, towering cliffs, and scattered grassy areas. This unique terrain provides a habitat for a variety of bird species, including seabirds such as guillemots, razorbills, and puffins. The surrounding waters of Sgeirean Dubha are also home to marine life like seals and dolphins, making it an ideal spot for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Access to Sgeirean Dubha is limited due to its remote location, and there are no permanent residents on the islands. However, visitors can reach the islands by boat or explore the area by kayak. The islands offer stunning views of the neighboring mountains and the vast Atlantic Ocean, making it a popular destination for photography and outdoor activities.

In addition to its natural beauty, Sgeirean Dubha is also rich in history. The islands have remnants of ancient settlements and ruins, which provide insights into the lives of the people who once inhabited the area. Exploring the islands allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history and culture of this remote part of Scotland.

Overall, Sgeirean Dubha is a captivating destination that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're interested in wildlife, history, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, Sgeirean Dubha has something to offer for everyone.

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Sgeirean Dubha Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.216764/-5.8069879 or Grid Reference NM6409. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Eileach an Naoimh

The southern end of the southernmost Garvellach Islands. To the right of centre is a small light, which does not seem to be mainstream light, but is maintained as a tourist attraction [!] by the Northern Lighthouse Board.

M J Richardson

Sgeir nam Marag

A skerry, east of Eileach an Naoimh and south of A' Chùli, in the Garvellachs with perching Shags. Its location can be seen in NM6410 : Eileach an Naoimh, the dark skerry at mid-right.

M J Richardson

Sea Arch on Garvellachs

Tony Page

Garbh Eileach from N point of Eileach an Naoimh

View over A'Chuli to Garbh Eileach showing the strong tidal race between the islets.

ronnie leask

The Garvellachs: Eilean an Naoimh

Looking down from a Colonsay-Oban flight as we pass the Garvellachs. This is the southernmost of the three main islands, reaching 77m above sea level. Beyond, we see various other islands - from front to back: Eilean Dubh Mòr and Eilean Dubh Bheag to the left; Lunga disappearing off the right of the picture; Luing spanning the entire picture behind that; and Shuna behind Luing (darker, to the right). In the distance, Loch Melfort punctuates the mainland coastline on the left.

Chris Downer

The southernmost of the Sgeirean Dubha

At the south of the Garvellachs.

Gordon Brown

The southernmost of the Sgeirean Dubha

The navigation light on Eileach an Naoimh in the background.

Gordon Brown

The southernmost of the Sgeirean Dubha

Gordon Brown

Eileach an Naoimh SW Top

Dropped by boat below the chapel then up to Eileach an Naoimh, then onto the Vanessa trig plus TUMP top of Eileach an Naoimh SW Top, plus just had enough time to visit the lighthouse. Name: Eileach an Naoimh SW Top Hill number: 11515 Height: 77m / 253ft Parent (Ma/M): none Section: 20A: Jura, Scarba and Colonsay County/UA: Argyll and Bute (UA) Maritime Area: Scarba, Slate Islands & Firth of Lorn Class: Tump (0-99m) Grid ref: NM638097 (est) Drop: 38m Col: 39m NM640099

Rude Health

Beehive Cells On Eileach an Naoimh

Eileach an Naoimh means ’Island of the saints’, although doubt exists as to which saints lived on this remote island in the Garvellachs. The physical remains on the island show it to be one of the best-preserved early Christian monasteries in Scotland. Of particular interest is the unusual, beehive-shaped double cell, still standing over 3m high.

Rude Health

Eileach an Naoimh

Dropped by boat below the chapel then up to Eileach an Naoimh, then onto the Vanessa trig plus TUMP top of Eileach an Naoimh SW Top, to just having time to visit the lighthouse. Name: Eileach an Naoimh Hill number: 11521 Height: 80m / 262ft Parent (Ma/M): none Section: 20A: Jura, Scarba and Colonsay County/UA: Argyll and Bute (UA) Maritime Area: Scarba, Slate Islands & Firth of Lorn Class: Tump (0-99m), SIB Grid ref: NM644103 (est) Drop: 80m Col: Sea

Rude Health

Summit of Eileach an Naoimh the Garvellachs

Ruined monastery lies below summit, Scarba is in left background.

Tony Page

Monk's Cell beside standing stone.

This is Eileach Na Naoimh, the South island of the Garvellachs

Christopher Bruce

Landing place on Eilach an Naoimh

Gordon Brown

The monastery chapel, Eilach an Naoimh

This well preserved monastic settlement is believed to date from the 9th century. The chapel walls are nearly 1 metre thick and it measures 6.7m by 3.7m.

Gordon Brown