Sgeir Choigreach

Island in Argyllshire

Scotland

Sgeir Choigreach

Coastal scene by the B8024 Looking south past West Loch Tarbert (the inlet on the left) to the southern part of Kintyre. — Coastal scene by the B8024 Credit: Gordon Brown

Sgeir Choigreach is a small uninhabited island located off the west coast of Scotland, specifically in Argyllshire. This rocky island is part of the Inner Hebrides archipelago and lies approximately 3 miles northeast of the Isle of Mull. With an area of around 1.5 hectares, Sgeir Choigreach is a relatively small landmass.

The island is characterized by its rugged and rocky terrain, with steep cliffs rising from the surrounding waters. It is primarily composed of basalt, an igneous rock formed from solidified lava. The island's coastline is indented with numerous sea caves and stacks, adding to its dramatic and picturesque appearance.

Due to its remote location and challenging topography, Sgeir Choigreach is devoid of any permanent human population. However, it serves as an important breeding ground for various seabird species, including guillemots, razorbills, and puffins. These birds take advantage of the island's inaccessible cliffs, using them as nesting sites during the breeding season.

The waters surrounding Sgeir Choigreach are also abundant in marine life, attracting divers and snorkelers who are keen to explore the diverse underwater ecosystem. From colorful fish to kelp forests, the area offers a unique opportunity for underwater enthusiasts to observe and appreciate marine biodiversity.

Although access to Sgeir Choigreach is limited, visitors can catch glimpses of the island from boat tours or by taking coastal walks along the nearby shores. Its stark beauty and untouched nature make it a popular attraction for those seeking solitude and a glimpse into the untamed Scottish coastline.

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Sgeir Choigreach Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.78157/-5.6246581 or Grid Reference NR7260. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Coastal scene by the B8024

Looking south past West Loch Tarbert (the inlet on the left) to the southern part of Kintyre.

Gordon Brown

Kintyre Peninsula

The evening sun on the west coast of the Kintyre peninsula. Taken from the B8024 near Creag Stars.

Peter Jeffery

The road to Kilberry climbs Bruach nan Clach-muillin

Alan Reid

Islay comes into view from the B8024

Alan Reid

Moorland above Rubha Cruitiridh

Alan Reid

Morning reflections

Reflections in the estuary at the head of Loch Stornoway.

Jonathan Wilkins

Patterns in sand

Accumulations of seaweed accentuate the contours of sand at the high-tide mark. The island of Gigha occupies the horizon.

Jonathan Wilkins

Sand patterns

Striations in the sandy bank of the estuary at the head of Loch Stornoway, highlighted in evening sunshine.

Jonathan Wilkins

Improved grazing

A wide meadow spreads out below the road, but above the steep and high relict cliff line. Jura looks magnificent on the morning horizon.

Jonathan Wilkins

Flooded marsh

The salt-marsh below Gorten is inundated by an unusually high tide.

Jonathan Wilkins

Port Mhic Dhonncha

The glacially-sculpted rocks forming the shore by Port Mhic Dhonncha, a little-visited place, possibly because the tin bothy has fallen into disrepair. This shore never failed to produce a sighting of otters playing among the tidal rocks.

Jonathan Wilkins

Ardminish shore

The sandy shore below Ardminish at the head of Loch Stornoway.

Jonathan Wilkins

Ardminish shore (2)

A view of the sandy end of Loch Stornoway below Ardminish. Although it is swept by rough seas, the tide seldom covers this area.

Jonathan Wilkins

Loch Stornoway dunes

A small line of low dunes at the edge of the carse. The habitat is interesting, and coming close to forming a machair.

Jonathan Wilkins

Exposed rock face

Beside the B8024

David Lally

A view across the foreshore

This is one of the better days on this holiday as it was not raining and we were heading for the yellow sandy beach in the distance. The position of the camera point is my best guess after so long as there is not a lot to allow accurate positioning. Taken on film in 1985.

Malcolm Neal