Forgotten Villages - Unearthing Scotland’s Abandoned Settlements

Scotland is a land of rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. But beyond the well-trodden tourist paths, hidden among the heather-clad hills and rugged coastlines, lie the remnants of another world—a world where entire villages once thrived, only to be abandoned and forgotten by time.

These deserted settlements, scattered across the Scottish Highlands and islands, are a poignant reminder of the country’s tumultuous past. Exploring these forgotten villages not only offers a unique glimpse into Scotland's history but also allows for a deeper connection with the land and its people.

The Village of Badbea: Life on the Edge

One of the most dramatic examples of Scotland’s abandoned villages is Badbea, perched high on the cliffs of Caithness in the far northeast of Scotland. Established during the early 19th century, Badbea was a result of the infamous Highland Clearances, a dark chapter in Scottish history when many tenants were forcibly evicted from their fertile lands to make way for sheep farming.

The families who settled in Badbea faced incredibly harsh conditions. The cliffs were steep, the soil was poor, and the weather was often unforgiving. Despite these challenges, the villagers managed to eke out a living, but life was always precarious. The windswept cliffs were so dangerous that villagers would often tether their children and livestock to prevent them from being blown off. Badbea was eventually abandoned in the early 20th century, but the remains of the stone houses still stand as a testament to the resilience of those who lived there.

Visitors can explore Badbea by following a walking trail from the nearby village of Berriedale. The trail leads to a memorial dedicated to the villagers and offers stunning views of the North Sea. It's a place of quiet reflection, where the echoes of the past can almost be heard on the wind.

Slaggan: The Hidden Gem of Wester Ross

Tucked away on the remote northwestern coast of Scotland, the village of Slaggan is a hidden gem that few visitors ever see. Located on the Rubha Mor peninsula in Wester Ross, Slaggan was once a bustling fishing and crofting community. However, like many other villages in the area, it was gradually abandoned as residents moved to larger towns in search of better opportunities.

Today, Slaggan is accessible only by foot, via a scenic 5-mile round trip walk from the road end near Mellon Udrigle. The trail takes you through wild moorland, past sparkling lochs, and down to the deserted village, which is now little more than a few crumbling cottages.

The secluded bay at Slaggan is one of the most beautiful spots in Scotland, with golden sands and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect place for a picnic or a quiet moment of reflection.

Boreraig and Suisnish: The Ghost Villages of Skye

On the Isle of Skye, the haunting ruins of Boreraig and Suisnish tell a similar tale of displacement and loss. These two villages, located on the Strathaird Peninsula, were once home to thriving communities who lived off the land and the sea. However, like many other villages in the Highlands, they were cleared in the mid-19th century to make way for sheep.

The villagers were forced to leave their homes and were relocated to less fertile areas or emigrated to distant lands. Today, all that remains of Boreraig and Suisnish are the crumbling stone walls of the crofts, slowly being reclaimed by nature. The remote location and the eerie silence that surrounds these ruins make them a powerful reminder of the impact of the Clearances on Scottish society.

For those looking to visit, the best way to access Boreraig and Suisnish is by following a hiking trail from the nearby village of Kilchrist. The trail offers stunning views of the Cuillin Mountains and Loch Eishort, as well as a chance to explore the ruins and imagine what life was like for the villagers who once called this place home.

Exploring Scotland's abandoned villages is more than just a walk-through picturesque ruin; it's a journey into the heart of the country's history and culture.

The stories of these abandoned communities are woven into the fabric of Scotland's landscape, and by exploring them, you become a part of that story too.

Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply someone looking to get off the beaten path, Scotland's abandoned villages offer a unique and enriching experience. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your map, and set out to discover the forgotten corners of this beautiful country. You never know what stories you might uncover along the way.

We’ll see you on the hills soon, Walkers!