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CG21

Skye, Coille Gaireallach, West Gulley, Invernessshire.

Cave in the West Gulley (noticeable for 5 m high waterfall over a granite wall at the head of the gulley). The stream passes underground but the open rocky gulley continues for several metres. Near the end on the west is a low slot-like entrance with a trench in floor. A 4 m crawl leads to a junction with a cross rift. This is blind to the right but to the left it leads to apparently deep shaft (actually a 3 m sump with clear water).

See also West Gulley Upper Through Cave (C.G. 17/18) & West Gulley Lower Through Cave. (C.G. 19/20).

Alternative Names: C.G. 21, Coille Gaireallach [21]

Notes: Coille Gaireallach is part of the Strath SSSI. Best example of an Oak and Birch/Hazel wood developed on Durness limestone. Situated on a gentle north-facing slope, a rich limestone ground flora alternates with acid heath and flushes, with open areas and sink holes.

From coordinates plotted on aerial photograph this would appear to be near the southern edge of the Oak or Birch/Hazel woodland. Geological maps shows a band of granite which suggests water runs off the granite before disappearing into the limestone below.

Hydrographic Feeds: Granite hillside northeast of Beinn an Dubhaich

Hydrographic Resurgences: Minor feeder to Allt Strath Suardal