Inchnadamph Caves

2 miles south of, Inchnadamph, The Highlands, IV27 4LU, Scotland
1-90 Years

Description

Bone Caves Circuit, Near Inchnadamph, stunning and popular walk located in the Scottish Highlands near Inchnadamph. This scenic route takes you through a limestone valley, leading to the dramatic Bone Caves. These cave openings are situated on a steep slope at the base of a cliff, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The caves have been excavated and have revealed fascinating remains of species such as lynx, reindeer, and polar bears that once roamed this area. The discovery of these remains offers a glimpse into the region's rich prehistoric past, making this hike not only an adventure in nature but a journey through time. The walk is perfect for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a memorable outdoor experience in the heart of Scotland's rugged terrain.

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Features

  • Free
  • Host birthday parties: No

Features

  • Scenic Limestone Valley Walk: The route offers breathtaking views of the rugged Scottish Highlands. As you journey through the limestone valley, you'll be treated to the natural beauty of the landscape, including waterfalls, springs, and craggy cliffs. Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Fascinating Geology: As you make your way through the valley, you'll encounter features typical of limestone country, such as underground watercourses and dry riverbeds in normal conditions. The landscape itself provides a glimpse into the ancient geological processes that shaped the area.
  • Discover Prehistoric Remains: The Bone Caves were excavated in 1889 by geologists Peach and Horne. The caves contained remains of long-extinct species like lynx, polar bear, arctic fox, and lemmings, offering a rare insight into the region's prehistoric past. 
  • Walk Description:
    • STAGE 1: From the car park go through the gate and follow the path past the building and along the side of the Allt nan Uamh. Soon the path passes above a lovely waterfall and then climbs gradually as it follows the river upstream.
    • STAGE 2: As the valley narrows the path passes a very large spring on the left. This is the Fuaran Allt nan Uamh where an underground watercourse flows out from near the base of a crag. Such large burns appearing from nowhere are characteristic of limestone country; there is another by the bed of the burn a short distance further on. Above this, the river bed is completely dry in normal conditions.
    • STAGE 3: Soon the caves become visible on the steep cliff on the far side of the now dry burn. When a junction is reached by a large marked boulder, take the right hand fork to head for the caves. This crosses the bed of the river and then climbs gently above the burn towards the base of Creag nan Uamh - the Crag of the Caves.
    • STAGE 4: There's a narrow and steep section of path - signs warn of rockfall danger - to reach the base of the cliffs, with the various cave entrances on your right. The caves were excavated in 1889 by the geologists Peach and Horne. They found the remains of animals which once roamed the Highlands including lynx, polar bear, arctic fox and lemmings. It is believed that the caves may have once sheltered these animals and also the humans who hunted them.
    • STAGE 5: Each cave can be explored with care, it is even possible to pass through an opening between the two middle caves which is found near the entrance - take great care as there are other small entrances that lead nowhere.
    • STAGE 6: To continue the walk take the path that continues across the steep slope, now heading downhill, below the caves and crag. The path eventually descends to reach a tributary of the Allt nan Uamh glen. Follow the path left here to rejoin the main glen.
    • STAGE 7: The path now heads left to return down the far side of the glen, giving good views back up to the caves. The outward route is rejoined at the fork by the boulder; continue ahead to retrace your steps back to the start.

Facilities

Accommodation options in Assynt include Assynt Hotels, Assynt B&Bs, Assynt Cottages, Ullapool Hostels, Glamping, and Camping.

Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

Open year round, accessibility weather dependent.

Address: 2 miles south of, Inchnadamph, The Highlands, IV27 4LU, Scotland

Post Code: IV27 4LU

Council: Inchnadamph

County: Highland

  • Public Transport: Very limited bus service from Ullapool.
  • Start Car park on the A837 between Elphin and Inchnadamph

5.00

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