Baile

Settlement in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Baile

New house above Loch Bhrusda on Berneray At the junction with the track to Trealigarry (or in Gaelic as displayed on the road sign). The Sound of Pabbay and Pabbay lie beyond the coastline of Berneray. — New house above Loch Bhrusda on Berneray Credit: Julian Paren

Baile is a small village located in the county of Inverness-shire, Scotland. Situated on the banks of the River Spey, it is nestled amidst picturesque landscapes of rolling hills and lush greenery. Baile is approximately 45 miles southeast of Inverness, the nearest major city.

The village has a rich history that dates back centuries, with evidence of human settlement dating as far back as the Bronze Age. Baile's name is derived from the Gaelic word for "village," highlighting its humble origins. Today, Baile maintains its traditional charm with a small population of around 500 residents.

Life in Baile revolves around the natural surroundings, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The River Spey is renowned for its salmon fishing, attracting anglers from across the country. The village also serves as a gateway to the Cairngorms National Park, offering opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting.

Despite its small size, Baile has a close-knit community that takes pride in its local amenities. The village boasts a few shops and a post office, ensuring residents have access to essential services. Additionally, Baile has a primary school, providing education for the local children.

Baile's tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty make it a popular destination for tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether exploring the surrounding countryside or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance, visitors to Baile can experience a slice of rural Scottish life in this idyllic village.

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Baile Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.718346/-7.1577826 or Grid Reference NF9381. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

New house above Loch Bhrusda on Berneray

At the junction with the track to Trealigarry (or in Gaelic as displayed on the road sign). The Sound of Pabbay and Pabbay lie beyond the coastline of Berneray.

Julian Paren

Loch Bhrusda

The loch lies between hills and the machair and is backed from this viewpoint by the hills of North Uist.

Julian Paren

Modern house on Berneray

Now Berneray is no longer an island and not reliant on a car ferry to reach North Uist there has been a spate of house building.

Julian Paren

Between the road and the sea, Berneray

The flowers brighten up the landscape immensely.

Julian Paren

Small boat harbour, Berneray

Fit for purpose!

Julian Paren

Converted black houses and school by Loch a Bhaigh

An enjoyable walk takes you between Loch Bhatarsaidh and the sea.

Julian Paren

The Lobster Pot Tearoom, Berneray

A convenient short walk from the ferry terminal, if you have time to spare before the Leverburgh ferry departs.

Gordon Brown

On the beach, Berneray

The wave action here is generally less extreme on the east-facing shore of the island.

Alan Reid

Gneiss, BeÃ rnaraigh

Fantastic rock strata on an un-named beach on the north coast of Berneray. Gneiss I understand, a metamorphic rock 542 to 4000 million years old. I thought geologists could be more precise than that. Berneray, Gaelic Beàrnaraigh, is said to come from the Norse bjarnar and ey meaning island of the bear. Whether bears survived here is hard to believe, it’s largely machair with no workable peat beds so blocks of peat for fuel had to be brought in by boat from Votersay and Stroma. Berneray no longer feels like an island due to its connection by a causeway to North Uist. In the 18th century, the 700 strong population was principally involved in the kelp trade, used to produce chemicals for the soap and glass industries. But following the Napoleonic wars the bottom dropped out the market, then poor harvests following by the potato famine caused families to abandoned the island. Many chose emigrated particularly to Nova Scotia. Its current population is around 120. In the distance is Pabbay, or Pabaigh, which means the Priest’s Isle.

Mick Garratt

Track towards Ãird Ma-Ruibhe

Borgh

Berneray Harbour

View towards Baile

Ruin, Mas aâ Champair

Mick Garratt

Cnoc na GrÃ¨ine stone row

Upright stones leading to a large glacial erratic. Link

Sandy Gerrard

Ruined Telford church restored as a dwelling

I had previously photographed this building as a ruin some 9 years previously, but from a different angle. The building is right on a grid line, so this photo is taken from the adjacent square. The building was restored and converted in 2013.

Gordon Hatton

Baile beach, Berneray

Just another white sand beach on the Western Isles. All are special, but this one comes with a fine view across to the hills of Harris.

Gordon Hatton

Cladh Maolrithe standing stone and earthwork building

This standing stone appears to form part of a rectangular building which may be a small chapel (Scale 1m). The stone also stands within a small circular enclosure. A thought provoking place. Link

Sandy Gerrard

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Baile is located at Grid Ref: NF9381 (Lat: 57.718346, Lng: -7.1577826)

Unitary Authority: Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands