Rubha nan Sgarbh

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Inverness-shire

Scotland

Rubha nan Sgarbh

Houses at Taigh a Chaolais South end of Harris, from the Sound
Houses at Taigh a Chaolais Credit: Sheila Russell

Rubha nan Sgarbh is a prominent coastal feature located in Inverness-shire, Scotland. It is classified as a headland or point, jutting out into the North Atlantic Ocean. The name "Rubha nan Sgarbh" translates to "Point of the Cormorants" in English, indicating the presence of these seabirds in the area.

Situated on the western coast of Scotland, Rubha nan Sgarbh offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the vast expanse of the ocean. The headland is characterized by its towering cliffs, which provide nesting sites for various seabird species, including cormorants, gulls, and puffins. These cliffs are also known to be a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

The headland is predominantly composed of rocky terrain, with occasional patches of grass and heather. The surrounding waters are often tumultuous, with crashing waves and strong currents. Due to its exposed location, Rubha nan Sgarbh is subject to the forces of erosion, resulting in the formation of sea caves and arches along its coastline.

Access to Rubha nan Sgarbh is possible via a coastal footpath that winds its way along the cliffs, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the area's natural beauty. The headland is a popular spot for hiking and photography, with its dramatic landscapes providing ample opportunities for stunning vistas.

In summary, Rubha nan Sgarbh is a striking headland in Inverness-shire, Scotland, known for its rugged cliffs, diverse birdlife, and panoramic views of the North Atlantic Ocean. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking a glimpse of Scotland's wild and untamed coastline.

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Rubha nan Sgarbh Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.774283/-7.0816553 or Grid Reference NF9887. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Houses at Taigh a Chaolais South end of Harris, from the Sound
Houses at Taigh a Chaolais
South end of Harris, from the Sound
Cove on Ensay An almost deserted island on the west of the Sound of Harris
Cove on Ensay
An almost deserted island on the west of the Sound of Harris
Manish beach, Ensay A sheltered sandy beach at the north of Ensay; good mooring.
Manish beach, Ensay
A sheltered sandy beach at the north of Ensay; good mooring.
Rocky corner of Manish beach, Ensay The western end of this sheltered beach; Pabbay in the distance.
Rocky corner of Manish beach, Ensay
The western end of this sheltered beach; Pabbay in the distance.
Highest point on Ensay The trig point is at 49m. Looking towards Killegray.
Highest point on Ensay
The trig point is at 49m. Looking towards Killegray.
Wall on Ensay Well built wall, just south of Ensay House
Wall on Ensay
Well built wall, just south of Ensay House
Ensay House
Ensay House
Stromay The small island of Stromay (Sromaigh) lies off the west coast of South Harris.  Not to be confused with a larger island of the same name which lies off the coast of North Uist.
Stromay
The small island of Stromay (Sromaigh) lies off the west coast of South Harris. Not to be confused with a larger island of the same name which lies off the coast of North Uist.
Red Rock, South Harris This rock (in Gaelic, Ceag Ruadh) is marked by a beacon and lies adjacent to the island of Stromay, off South Harris' west coast.
Red Rock, South Harris
This rock (in Gaelic, Ceag Ruadh) is marked by a beacon and lies adjacent to the island of Stromay, off South Harris' west coast.
Ensay House and bay Looking south to Borosdale Point.
Ensay House and bay
Looking south to Borosdale Point.
Ensay House Viewed from the anchorage in the bay. This house, once home to the Stewart family, was renovated in 1991 as holiday accommodation.
Ensay House
Viewed from the anchorage in the bay. This house, once home to the Stewart family, was renovated in 1991 as holiday accommodation.
Ensay House and bay Viewed from Borosdale Point, looking northwards.
Ensay House and bay
Viewed from Borosdale Point, looking northwards.
Christ Church Chapel, Ensay Little is known of the chapel's early history. In the early 1900s the island of Ensay became the property of the Stewart family and one of the sisters, Mrs Jessie Scott, decided to renew the old chapel beside Ensay House and to restore it to its original purpose. By 1909 it was repaired, the rood re-slated, the ceiling panelled in Californian redwood, a heavy oak door added and a new altar, altar rail, reredos and lectern made in mahogany. The church fell into disrepair again after the First World War, but it was restored in the early 1950s by John David, who had bought Ensay House. An annual pilgrimage to the chapel is maintained by members of Lewis and Harris congregations.  On the hill behind the chapel is a standing stone.
Christ Church Chapel, Ensay
Little is known of the chapel's early history. In the early 1900s the island of Ensay became the property of the Stewart family and one of the sisters, Mrs Jessie Scott, decided to renew the old chapel beside Ensay House and to restore it to its original purpose. By 1909 it was repaired, the rood re-slated, the ceiling panelled in Californian redwood, a heavy oak door added and a new altar, altar rail, reredos and lectern made in mahogany. The church fell into disrepair again after the First World War, but it was restored in the early 1950s by John David, who had bought Ensay House. An annual pilgrimage to the chapel is maintained by members of Lewis and Harris congregations. On the hill behind the chapel is a standing stone.
Standing stone on Ensay Situated on the bluff behind Christ Church Chapel.
Standing stone on Ensay
Situated on the bluff behind Christ Church Chapel.
Old lazy beds on Ensay There are signs of former cultivation all over this island. These appear to be former lazy beds.
Old lazy beds on Ensay
There are signs of former cultivation all over this island. These appear to be former lazy beds.
Cairn on Ensay Located on the north-eastern tip of the island.
Cairn on Ensay
Located on the north-eastern tip of the island.
Manish Strand, Ensay The island of Pabbay can be seen in the distance.
Manish Strand, Ensay
The island of Pabbay can be seen in the distance.
Western end of Manish Strand, Ensay The island behind is Pabbay.
Western end of Manish Strand, Ensay
The island behind is Pabbay.
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Rubha nan Sgarbh is located at Grid Ref: NF9887 (Lat: 57.774283, Lng: -7.0816553)

Unitary Authority: Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///reduction.disco.awards. Near Leverburgh, Na h-Eileanan Siar

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