Ceannabeinne Beach (Traigh Allt Chailgeag)
Situated on the far north coast of mainland Scotland is Ceannabeinne beach. This is one of several beaches in the Durness are that are all equally stunning with their near-white sand and crystal clear azure waters.
On a sunny day these beaches could give anywhere in the world a run for its money in terms of sheer beauty. However, dipping a toe in the ocean will probably bring you back to reality!
Flanked by rocky cliffs with a distinctive pink hue, the beach is backed by a grassy landscape which slopes up towards Beinn Ceannabeinne, a 383 metre high mountain. This is where the beach’s name comes from and it means “end of the mountains”.
The beach was also known as Traigh Alt Chailgeag, which translates rather cheerily to “beach of the burn of bereavement and death”! The story goes that an old woman was swept down the stream to the beach.
A little way of the coast of Ceannabeinne is the small island of Eilean Hoan. Once home to a small number of farming families this is now a nature reserve.
Also known as:
Traigh Allt Chailgeag
Type of beach
Sandy
Lifeguard service
No
Dogs friendly beach?
Dogs allowed
Dog friendly beach
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Ceannabeinne Beach Reviews
Nc500 highlight
Sam
Jul 21st 2020Amazing beach we spent way to long exploring the coast and caves fantastic for kids and dogs my fav place in Scotland I think
A must for geologists
Victoria
Oct 15th 2022Fascinating beach with some superb examples of local geology. Beautiful white sand and easily accessible, although there are some shallow steps near the top, by the car park. So pretty and very sheltered from the westerly prevailing winds. Visited in October and very few there. Less touristy than Smoo Cave, but equally as interesting.