Eilean Hoan facts for kids
| Gaelic name | Eilean Hoan |
|---|---|
| Meaning of name | haven island |
| OS grid reference | NC444673 |
| Coordinates | 58°33′58″N 4°40′34″W / 58.566°N 4.676°W |
| Physical geography | |
| Island group | Outlier |
| Area | 28 ha |
| Highest elevation | 24 m |
| Administration | |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Country | Scotland |
| Council area | Highland |
| Demographics | |
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Eilean Hoan is a small island located in Loch Eriboll. This loch is a sea inlet found on the northern coast of Sutherland, a region in Scotland. The island covers an area of about 28 hectares (which is roughly 69 acres). Its highest point reaches about 25 meters (or 82 feet) above sea level. The name "Eilean Hoan" comes from a mix of Gaelic and Old Norse words. It means "haven island," suggesting it was once a safe place or shelter.
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Discover Eilean Hoan: Scotland's Haven Island
Eilean Hoan is a fascinating island with a rich history and a special role today. It's a great example of Scotland's many unique islands.
Where is Eilean Hoan Located?
This island sits at the northern, or seaward, end of Loch Eriboll. This means it's closer to the open sea. Loch Eriboll itself is a long, narrow body of water that reaches inland from the Atlantic Ocean. The area around it is known for its beautiful, rugged landscapes.
What's in the Name "Eilean Hoan"?
The name "Eilean Hoan" tells us something important about the island. "Eilean" is a Gaelic word meaning "island." "Hoan" comes from Old Norse, meaning "haven" or "shelter." So, the full name means "haven island." This suggests that the island might have offered a safe place for boats or people in the past.
A Look at the Island's Past
Eilean Hoan was once home to people. The last known inhabitants lived there in the early 1800s. Maps from the Ordnance Survey, which is the national mapping agency of Great Britain, show that there are still ruins of a small farm, called a croft, on the island. This gives us a peek into what life might have been like for the people who lived there long ago.
Eilean Hoan Today: A Nature Reserve
Today, Eilean Hoan is no longer inhabited by people. Instead, it has become a special place for nature. It is now a nature reserve. This means the island is protected to help wildlife and plants thrive. It's a quiet spot where nature can flourish without much human disturbance.
Nearby Islands and Features
Eilean Hoan is not alone in Loch Eriboll. There are several other smaller islands and rocky areas nearby. These include places like A' Ghoil-sgeir, An Cruachan, An Dubh-sgeir, Eilean Clùimhrig, and Pocan Smoo. Further south, deeper inside the loch, you can find another island called Eilean Choraidh. These islands add to the natural beauty and complexity of the loch's environment.
