Carraig a' Choire

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Argyllshire

Scotland

Carraig a' Choire

Stone dykes at Tiretigan Snow-capped Paps of Jura through the trees. — Stone dykes at Tiretigan Credit: Alan Reid

Carraig a' Choire is a prominent coastal feature located in Argyllshire, Scotland. It is a headland that juts out into the sea, forming a distinct point along the rugged coastline. The name "Carraig a' Choire" translates to "rock of the corrie" in English, referencing the rocky nature of the terrain.

The headland is characterized by its steep cliffs that tower over the crashing waves below. These cliffs are formed from a mix of basalt and sandstone, displaying a striking contrast of dark and light colors. The rocky outcrops and crevices provide a habitat for a diverse range of seabirds, including guillemots, puffins, and gannets, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.

Carraig a' Choire offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and the vast expanse of the sea. On a clear day, visitors can see the distant islands of the Inner Hebrides, adding to the allure of this coastal feature.

The headland is accessible via a well-maintained footpath that winds its way along the cliff edge. It is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts who are drawn to its natural beauty and tranquility. However, caution is advised while walking along the cliffs, as the terrain can be rugged and slippery.

Carraig a' Choire is a captivating coastal feature that showcases the raw beauty of the Scottish coastline. Its dramatic cliffs, diverse wildlife, and stunning views make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Argyllshire region.

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Carraig a' Choire Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.807871/-5.6676435 or Grid Reference NR7063. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Stone dykes at Tiretigan

Snow-capped Paps of Jura through the trees.

Alan Reid

Farm track at Keppoch

Island of Jura across the sea.

Alan Reid

Kilberry Farm

Alan Reid

Road to Kilberry Castle

Alan Reid

Ornate house name sign at Kilberry

Alan Reid

Rubha an Righ

Offshore rocks and a small promontory are formed by a particularly resistant outcrop of Dalradian schist. The population of cormorants on this coast is remarkable, and here are a group of over one dozen sunning themselves dry.

Jonathan Wilkins

Erosion platform with Jura

Pasture on the wave-cut platform stretches out for a significant distance below the relict cliff-line. This level is referred to as the Main Rock Platform and is a pronounced landscape feature throughout the Hebrides, arising through marine erosion at a time when relative sea level was higher than today. Debate continues regarding the age and origin of this feature, whose simplest explanation lies in the rebound of the land surface after the load of ice was lifted after de-glaciation. The profile of distant Jura fills the horizon.

Jonathan Wilkins

Seaweed, Port na Gaillinn

Luxuriant growth of very bright green seaweed on the upper shore of Port na Gaillinn. I believe that the seaweed is one of the Enteromorpha species, but it needs a closer look to be certain.

Jonathan Wilkins

Promontory of schist

Resistant beds of Dalradian schist finger out into the sea. There is a pronounced storm beach above the normal tide line, which makes walking difficult when weeds have grown over and hidden the surface. Gigha and Islay creep into the horizon, the latter with a surprising layer of cloud over its hills.

Jonathan Wilkins

Relict sea-stack

At one time this prominent rock would have been a small rocky island lying some distance from a shore with rocky cliffs, but relative lowering of sea level has left it stranded. It is one of several such features on this stretch of the Main Rock Platform, a 'fossilised' landscape feature well known in the Hebrides (see also NR7062 : Erosion platform with Jura). In the background can be seen both the extending platform and the relict cliff line. The sodden ground here supports a thick growth of Flag Iris and it is not easy walking.

Jonathan Wilkins

Sandy shore, Port MÃ²r

A fine little bay below the relict cliff line which lies in shadow at this early-morning hour. Such is the importance of access to such locations that a small track makes its way down the cliffs from the road.

Jonathan Wilkins

Port MÃ²r

A beautiful bay with a horizon filled by the distant island of Jura. There is another sandy bay without a name to the south-west of this little headland. The bay is developed in the Main rock Platform (see NR7062 : Erosion platform with Jura), whose relict cliffs are well displayed here.

Jonathan Wilkins