Blind Hooies

Island in Wigtownshire

Scotland

Blind Hooies

Oyster catchers on Ardwell Bay nx070450 Ardwell bay, looking ENE across the bay, Oyster Catchers can be seen looking for a late lunch we were waiting to eat ours as well.... — Oyster catchers on Ardwell Bay nx070450 Credit: Dave Smethurst

Blind Hooies is a small island located off the coast of Wigtownshire, Scotland. With a land area of approximately 1 square kilometer, it is one of the lesser-known islands in the region. The island gets its peculiar name from the local legend that sailors who approach it lose their sight temporarily due to the blinding reflection of the sun on the surrounding waters.

Despite its small size, Blind Hooies boasts stunning natural beauty and a diverse ecosystem. The island is characterized by rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush greenery, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. It is home to a variety of bird species, including puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes, which nest along the cliffs during the breeding season.

Access to Blind Hooies is limited, with no regular ferry services available. However, adventurous visitors can reach the island by private boat or kayak, taking into account the tides and weather conditions. The lack of human settlement on the island means there are no facilities or amenities for tourists, making it a destination for those seeking solitude and a true natural experience.

Blind Hooies offers breathtaking coastal walks and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Visitors can explore the island's rocky shores, admire the panoramic views, and witness the abundant marine life in the surrounding waters. It is important to note that visitors should adhere to responsible tourism practices, respecting the island's fragile ecosystem and leaving no trace behind.

In conclusion, Blind Hooies is a hidden gem in Wigtownshire, offering a unique and untouched natural experience to those willing to venture off the beaten path. Its stunning landscapes, diverse birdlife, and isolation from modern civilization make it a destination worth exploring for nature enthusiasts.

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Blind Hooies Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.757799/-5.0042881 or Grid Reference NX0644. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Oyster catchers on Ardwell Bay nx070450

Ardwell bay, looking ENE across the bay, Oyster Catchers can be seen looking for a late lunch we were waiting to eat ours as well....

Dave Smethurst

Ardwell Bay (or High Ardwell Bay as the locals call it).

Ardwell Bay on the west side if the Rhins of Galloway peninsula facing onto the Irish Sea with good views to Northern Ireland on a clear day.

Colin McDonald

Doon Castle Broch, High Ardwell.

This pile of stones is all that remains of Doon Castle Broch. Dating from approx 100BC it would have presented a spectacular sight when first built. The remains of a doorway and some lower walls can still be seen, but the remainder has collapsed. This castle occupied a prominent position at High Ardwell point and great views to the south towards the Mull of Galloway (as per photo) and west towards Northern Ireland can be had. Unfortunately, this photo was taken on a dull day, but I will endeavour to post a better photo of this location soon. Dating from approx 100BC, would have presented a spectacular sight when first built.

Colin McDonald

Doon Castle Broch, High Ardwell Bay

A much better view of the landmark on a pleasant February day as promised after my first photo of this.

Colin McDonald

South Ardwell

A typical Rhins whitewashed farm with views over the Irish Sea

Bill Lord

Drumbreddan Bay

View of drumbreddan Bay taken from the hill fort

Bill Lord

Salt Pan Cottage

This cottage was where salt was obtained by the evaporation of sea water

Bill Lord

Drumbreddan Farm

Large South Rhins Farm, backs on to sea and fronts arable land

Bill Lord

Whitewashed Cottages on Quiet lane

Two typical one storey cottages facing each other on a deserted country lane leading to the sea

Bill Lord

Drumbreddan Sunset

Bill Lord

Port Gill

Muddy track leads down from Port Gill farmyard to the coast at Port Gill.

Chris Newman

Retreating Tide Ardwell Bay

Duncan McNaught

Doon Castle Broch at Ardwell Bay.

This broch, known as Doon Castle, is the best example of an Iron age broch in Dumfries and Galloway. It is believed to date from the 1st century AD. Sadly the walls are gradually falling down.

Ann Cook

Ardwell Bay

Ardwell Bay is on the west of the Rhins peninsula. It is a fine, sandy bay which is reached by an uneven, narrow track with no passing places even though there is a drop to one side.

Ann Cook

The cliff top at Doon Castle Broch.

The views from the cliff top look southwards, down the Rhins of Galloway.

Ann Cook

Boulder on beach

At Ardwell Bay.

Russel Wills

Slipway into Ardwell Bay

Mary Wilson’s Slunk, beyond the point, is the site of a wreck. In the Rhins the word slunk is used to describe a gully on a rocky shore. Many ships have been wrecked and most have been forgotten but the Mary Wilson is remembered through a place name.

Russel Wills