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Mhic 'ille Rhiabhaich (Uamh)

Gairloch, Ross & Cromarty.

Cave close to picturesque loch of same name. Cave & loch among hills, 2 miles east from Tournaig, in parish of Gairloch.

Alternative Names: Mhic Gille Rhiabhaich (Uamh) , Mac Gille Riabhaich (Cave of)

Notes: Loch Mhic 'ille Rhiabhaich with 2 small islands, one seems to be crannog or island fortalice, probably refuge of Mac Gille Riabhaich in times of danger.

One of Macdonalds who came to Gairloch was named Mac Gille Riabhaich. Possibly a descendant of Gille Riabhach, who assisted Murdo Mackenzie, 4th lord of Kintail, to overcome Leod Mac Gilleandreis. He took up abode in cave called Uamh Mhic 'ille Rhiabhaich, or "cave of Mac Gille Riabhaich."

Mac Gille Riabhaich was a notorious freebooter, as well as a warrior of renown. He was at the battle of Flodden Field in 1513. He became a well-known "lifter" of other people's cattle, and is said to have been outlawed. [H. Dixon]

See also Gillander's Cave.