Sound of Sleat facts for kids
The Sound of Sleat is a narrow channel of sea located off the western coast of Scotland. It acts like a natural border, separating the Sleat peninsula on the south-east side of the Isle of Skye from the mainland areas of Morar, Knoydart, and Glenelg.
This sea channel stretches for about 19.5 miles (31.5 kilometers) in a south-southwest direction, starting from Loch Alsh. It is widest at its southwest entrance, measuring about 7.75 miles (12.5 kilometers) across. However, it becomes very narrow at Kyle Rhea, shrinking to just 0.25 miles (400 meters) wide. This narrow part connects the Sound to Loch Alsh. The name "Sleat" comes from the peninsula on its northern side. This name itself comes from the Scottish Gaelic word Sléibhte (or Slèite), which means "smooth" or "even" in Old Norse.
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Exploring the Sound of Sleat
The Sound of Sleat is a significant waterway in the Scottish Highlands. It is a key part of the local geography, connecting different lochs and coastal areas.
What is the Sound of Sleat?
The Sound of Sleat is a long, thin stretch of sea. It is like a natural waterway that divides land. On one side is the beautiful Isle of Skye, and on the other is the rugged Scottish mainland. This channel is important for travel and local life.
How Big is the Sound?
The Sound of Sleat is quite long, reaching nearly 20 miles. It starts wide and then gets much narrower. At its narrowest point, called Kyle Rhea, it's only about a quarter of a mile wide. This makes it a unique and interesting sea channel.
Where Does the Name Come From?
The name "Sound of Sleat" has old roots. "Sleat" comes from a Scottish Gaelic word. This word means "smooth" or "even." It describes the calm waters that can often be found in this area.
Places Around the Sound
Many interesting places are found along the Sound of Sleat. On the mainland side, you can find the entrances to Loch Nevis and Loch Hourn. The largest town on the mainland side is Mallaig. It sits right at the entrance to the Sound.
On the Isle of Skye side, you can see Knock Castle. This old castle was once a strong home for the MacDonalds. Also on Skye is the village of Armadale.
Getting Across the Sound
People travel across the Sound of Sleat regularly. During the summer, a ferry runs between Glenelg and Kylerhea. Another ferry, operated by Caledonian MacBrayne, travels between Mallaig and Armadale all year round. These ferries help people and goods move between the mainland and the Isle of Skye.
