Cailleach nam Peur

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Argyllshire

Scotland

Cailleach nam Peur

Corryvreckan, north of Jura An area of turbulence with, behind it, a dead-flat area of sea. Photo taken mid afternoon. I think the tide was listed as 4.0 that day. — Corryvreckan, north of Jura Credit: Patrick Hamilton

Cailleach nam Peur is a prominent coastal feature located in Argyllshire, Scotland. It is classified as a headland or point, and stands as a majestic natural formation along the rugged coastline of the region.

The name "Cailleach nam Peur" translates to "Old Woman of the Caves" in English, which adds to the mystical allure surrounding this geological wonder. The headland is characterized by its steep cliffs, which tower above the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean below. These cliffs are made up of ancient rock formations, displaying layers of sediment and showcasing the geological history of the area.

Cailleach nam Peur offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, with its elevated position allowing visitors to take in the expansive horizon of the ocean. The headland is often frequented by birdwatchers, as it serves as a nesting site for various seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills.

The area surrounding Cailleach nam Peur is also rich in flora, supporting a diverse range of plant species. Visitors may come across wildflowers, heather, and grasses, adding vibrant colors to the rugged coastal scenery.

Access to Cailleach nam Peur is relatively easy, with a well-maintained footpath leading to the headland. There are also informative signposts along the way that provide geological and historical information about the area.

Overall, Cailleach nam Peur is a captivating coastal feature in Argyllshire, offering a unique blend of stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and geological wonders that make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a truly immersive outdoor experience.

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Cailleach nam Peur Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.160939/-5.6964606 or Grid Reference NM7002. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Corryvreckan, north of Jura

An area of turbulence with, behind it, a dead-flat area of sea. Photo taken mid afternoon. I think the tide was listed as 4.0 that day.

Patrick Hamilton

Above Creag an t-SeÃ²il

Chris Wimbush

Gulf of Corryvreckan

Looking over the gulf in the direction of Scarba from the northern tip of Jura.

Steve Partridge

Uamh Camas nam Bairneach on Scarba

This gully with a burn running down into the Camas nan Bairneach on the south side of Scarba was viewed from a small boat in the Gulf of Corryvreckan.

Walter Baxter

Corryvreckan Whirlpool

Taken on a trip from Crinan with small tides and good weather.

Patrick Mackie

Cruach Scarba

Looking towards the whirlpool and Jura from below the summit of Cruach Scarba.

Rude Health

Camas nam Bairneach

Bay and valley on the south coast of Scarba.

Oliver Dixon

Carraig MhÃ²r

Northernmost point of the Isle of Jura.

Oliver Dixon

Raised beach and old sea cliffs

East of Carraig Mhòr at the north end of the Isle of Jura.

Oliver Dixon

South coast of Scarba

Oliver Dixon

South coast of Scarba

Oliver Dixon

The track across Scarba

The track is seen on the right, climbing gently to almost its highest point at 285m.

David Purchase

Scarba and the Gulf of Corryvreckan

The extreme tidal race between the islands of Jura and Scarba give rise to the notorious Corryvreckan whirlpool, a condition that only occurs at a few other places in the world. The local navigation charts describe the area as "un-navigable".

Bob Tinley

Loch Airidh a' Chruidh

Pony path high on Scarba, heading eastward towards Loch Airidh a' Chruidh.

Richard Webb

Coryvreckan whirlpool from a boat

Russ Baum

Pony track

The pony track that runs around the south side of Scarba becomes almost alpine in its character at this point.

Patrick Mackie

Corryvreckan

A grey view of the infamous gap between Jura (left) and hilly Scarba (right). The low island of Rèisa Mhic Phaidean in the middle distance. Taken from the Craignish Peninsula on mainland Argyll.

Richard Webb