Ard Dubh on the Applecross peninsula Wester Ross Scottish Highlands SCO 2322
Applecross, the name of which is a corruption of Apor Crossan (mouth of the river Crossan) is one of the earliest Christian communities in Scotland. In the year 671, an Irish monk named Maelrubha, from the same monastic background as Columba, arrived on the south western shore of the Applecross Peninsula and two years later, established a monastery. An area of 6 square miles around the monastery was declared a sanctuary. On the site of the monastery, there now stands Clachan Church. In 1850 nearly 3,000 people lived in the scattered townships of the peninsula. Now there are less than 300. The clearances were responsible for much of the depopulation, but lack of local opportunities and work also contributed. The remains of previously thriving settlements can be seen in many areas. Until 1976, the only road access to Applecross was by the famous Bealach na Ba (Pass of the Cattle), and the only access to many areas of the peninsula was either by footpath, bridle path or sea. Along the coast of the Peninsula, lighting was by paraffin lamp until electricity was finally introduced after the coast road was built. Even today, there are a few remote cottages where access is still only by foot or by sea. The coast road now provides alternative access for those wishing a more relaxing journey to that offered by the Bealach na Ba, the highest road in Scotland. Applecross bay is one of the largest sandy inlets in the Western Highlands and is ideal for sailing, boating and sail boarding. Kayaking can also be organised locally. The beautiful sandy bay at Sand is popular with tourists, but is never busy. Sea and loch fishing are available for the angler. SCO 2322
Size: 3732px × 5619px
Location: Ard Dubh Applecross peninsula Wester Ross Scottish Highlands UK
Photo credit: © David Gowans / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
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