An Garbh-Eilean

Island in Ross-shire

Scotland

An Garbh-Eilean

Path along the shore, to Duncraig This path runs between Plockton and Duncraig, along the south shore of Loch Carron. It passes by mixed woodland, including pine, birch and rhododendron.
This was a rather wet day, with a few puddles on the path, getting muddy in places. — Path along the shore, to Duncraig Credit: Craig Wallace

An Garbh-Eilean is a small island located off the coast of Ross-shire in the Scottish Highlands. Also known as the "Rough Island," it is situated in the picturesque waters of the Inner Sound, between the mainland and the Isle of Skye. The island covers an area of approximately 2.5 hectares and is primarily composed of rugged cliffs, rocky shores, and a small grassy plateau.

Due to its remote location and challenging terrain, An Garbh-Eilean is uninhabited and has no permanent structures or facilities. However, it is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers, as the island serves as a nesting site for various seabird species, including guillemots, razorbills, and puffins. The surrounding waters are also home to seals, porpoises, and occasionally dolphins, making it a haven for marine life.

Access to An Garbh-Eilean is limited and is typically only possible by private boat or organized wildlife tours. The island's rugged landscape and lack of amenities make it a destination suited for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature. Visitors are advised to take caution when exploring the island, as the cliffs can be steep and unstable.

With its stunning coastal views, diverse wildlife, and untouched natural beauty, An Garbh-Eilean offers a unique experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.

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An Garbh-Eilean Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.34696/-5.6505225 or Grid Reference NG8034. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Path along the shore, to Duncraig

This path runs between Plockton and Duncraig, along the south shore of Loch Carron. It passes by mixed woodland, including pine, birch and rhododendron. This was a rather wet day, with a few puddles on the path, getting muddy in places.

Craig Wallace

Plockton Station

Sarah Charlesworth

Train in the rain, at Plockton Station

A rather dreich day at Plockton station, or 'Am Ploc' in Gaelic. The train is the ScotRail service running from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh, due to depart Plockton at 1322. It is a Class 158 multiple unit, number 158704.

Craig Wallace

An t-ob, Plocton

A small tidal inlet.

Alan Reid

Plockton Station

Seen from the road bridge; the station is unstaffed and the building is now used for self-catering accommodation.

Jim Barton

An arm of Loch Carron, Plockton

The end of a narrow arm of the sea loch that bounds the peninsula on which Plockton stands.

Jim Barton

Westward view from Carn na Frith Aird

Looking across the nearby islands around Eilean Dubh to An Dubh-Aird and Skye.

Jim Barton

Royal Scotsman hauled by 66746 arriving at Plockton

Peter Moore

Plockton Railway Station

The station building is now used as self catering accommodation.

Alpin Stewart

Minor road heading towards Plockton Railway Station

Looking south-eastward.

Peter Wood

Hedge-lined minor road near Rowan Barn, Plockton

Looking north-westward in the direction of Plockton Airstrip.

Peter Wood

Camus Dubh-aird with the Isle of Skye in the distance

Richard Baker

Eilean na Ba Mor

Rocks and Lichen

Jon Royle

Plockton Railway Station.

Johnny Durnan

Welcome to Plockton.

Johnny Durnan

Plockton Bay

The innermost part.

Dave Fergusson

Open Air Church

When the Free Church split away from the Church of Scotland in 1843, the congregation of Plockton found itself without a church building, so they adapted this natural valley to a small amphitheatre, complete with seating cut from the rock.

Dr Duncan Pepper