Binnein Riabhach, Port Mòr

Summary

The western coastline of Colonsay is wild and rugged with some impressive cliff scenery. This walk is particularly rewarding in early summer when the cliffs are home to nesting seabirds.

Grade

Bog Factor

Rating

Terrain

Rugged clifftop walking; pathless sections and some navigation required. Boggy on return.

Getting there

Start

Where track leaves road at Port Mòr .

Public Transport

None to start. A bicycle is perhaps the best means of transport on Colonsay.

Start Grid Ref

NR361948

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 5.3km / 3.25 miles
Time: 2 hours
Ascent: 150m (Profile)

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Explorer 354 - Colonsay

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Walk Description

User reports (2)

Stage 1

The walk starts from where a tarred track strikes off along the north side of Port Mòr at Lower Kilchattan. Follow this track (upgraded since the photo) along the north side of the bay; it soon becomes a track. Continue to the gate for the Wee Croft, pass through and then turn left, passing to the left of the polytunnels (free-ranging hens etc. in this area).

Stage 2

After another gate, keep ahead, eventually coming close to the coastline. Continue northwards parallel to the shore - there are some boggy patches but also grassy going just below an escarpment. After a low section of coastline the route continues onto the grassy clifftop of Druim nam Faoileann. This part of the coast is spectacular in early summer when the crags are home to breeding birds including razorbills and kittiwakes.

Stage 3

The cliffs soon descend and the coastal route becomes impassable. Head across undulating ground to begin a grassy ascent to join a fenceline visible high to the east. At the top of this fence - where it joins another running along the top of the cliffs - there is a gap you can pass through. Now follow the clifftop fence, crossing to the landward side of it at a ladder stile.

Stage 4

Excellent close-cropped turf now follows for the short walk along the clifftop to the unmarked summit of Binnein Riabhach. The views along the coastline - and, with care, down the cliffs - are spectacular.

Stage 5

Continue along the cliffs - safely back from the edge which is overhanging in places - until the easy going ends at the deep inlet of Aoineadh an t-Sruth. There are excellent views along the cliffs beyond - to Beinn Bhreac and the grassy ledge known as Pig's Paradise below it. Maintain height as you follow the inlet inland to the southeast. (It is possible to leave the route at the back of the inlet to continue the very rugged coastal walk through to Uragaig).

Stage 6

To continue our circular route, head south from the back of the inlet, soon picking up a rough and initially faint track. This becomes clearer but is boggy in places as it cuts southwest, passing a small lochan. The track turns and eventually leads towards the cottage at Gortain. Bear left to passing to the left side of the house. There is a kissing gate. Below the housem turn right until you pick up its approach driveway, then turn left down this. Follow this down the hill to reach the road.

Stage 7

Turn right to follow the road back to the start. Along the way, look out for a small gate on the left that gives access to a field with two tall prehistoric standing stones; the tall grasses here are home to corncrakes (so keep clear in spring and early summer).

Route Profile

Where to stay

Islay, Jura & Colonsay Hotels

Islay, Jura & Colonsay B&B

Islay, Jura & Colonsay cottages

Islay, Jura & Colonsay hostels

Glamping and Camping

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