River Dionard facts for kids

The River Dionard is a beautiful river located in the northwest of Scotland. It flows through a part of Scotland called Sutherland. This river starts its journey from a lake named Loch Dionard.

Where Does the River Dionard Start?

The River Dionard begins its flow from Loch Dionard. This loch is a lake found at the base of the eastern side of a mountain called Foinaven. Imagine the water from the loch spilling out and starting its adventure as a river!

The River's Journey

After leaving Loch Dionard, the river travels about 7 kilometers (that's about 4.3 miles). It flows generally north-northwest through a valley known as Strath Dionard. This valley is also located near the eastern side of the Foinaven mountain.

Later, the river changes direction. It turns north and then northeast. Its final destination is the top end of the Kyle of Durness.

Connecting to the Ocean

The Kyle of Durness is a shallow arm of the sea, like a small bay. The River Dionard's path can be seen winding through the sandy areas of this bay when the tide is low. This bay then connects directly to the mighty Atlantic Ocean on the north coast of Scotland.

What Feeds the River Dionard?

The main stream that feeds water into Loch Dionard (where the river starts) is called the Allt an Easain Ghill. This stream flows through two smaller lakes, known as lochans. These lochans are found below a mountain called Meall Horn.

Other Water Sources

The two lochans that the Allt an Easain Ghill passes through are Lochan Ulbha (the upper one) and An Dubh-loch (the lower one). Another stream nearby, called the Allt Eilidh a' Chleirich, also adds water to the area. It flows from a third lochan named Lochan Sgeireach.

There are many other small streams and lochans in the area where the river collects its water. This whole area is called the river's catchment.

Nature Around the River

A special place called the Gualin National Nature Reserve has been set up in the area around the River Dionard. This reserve helps protect the natural environment and the wildlife that lives there. It's a great example of how important it is to look after our natural spaces.