Fingal's Cave — Attraction in Scotland

Fingal's Cave is Natural Marvel and a stunning sea cave located on the uninhabited island of Staffa in Scotland's Inner Hebrides. Renowned for its remarkable acoustics and striking geological features, this natural wonder attracts visitors from around the world.

The cave is primarily composed of hexagonally jointed basalt columns, which were formed from a volcanic lava flow millions of years ago. As the lava cooled, it contracted and fractured, creating the iconic hexagonal shapes. This unique geological structure is similar to that found at the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland and contributes to the cave's breathtaking appearance.

Fingal's Cave gained prominence in the 18th century when it was brought to public attention by naturalist Sir Joseph Banks. The cave was named after the hero of an epic poem by Scottish poet James Macpherson, who drew inspiration from the legendary figure Finn MacCumhaill, a celebrated leader in Irish folklore.

Visitors can explore Fingal's Cave during sightseeing cruises that operate from April to September. On calm days, it's possible to land on Staffa and walk to the cave, where a row of fractured columns creates a natural walkway just above high-water level. The cave features a grand arched entrance that opens up to the sea, allowing the sound of crashing waves to echo beautifully within its walls.

Fingal's Cave stretches approximately 227 to 270 feet in length, with an impressive arched roof that rises between 66 and 72 feet above sea level. The cave is about 40 feet wide, and its floor is often covered by around 25 feet of water.

The area surrounding Fingal's Cave is rich in wildlife, including Puffins, Black-headed Kittiwakes, common Stags, and various species of gulls. Marine life such as Basking Sharks, Dolphins, Grey Seals, and even Minke and Pilot Whales can also be spotted in the waters around Staffa.

Fingal's Cave is not only a geological wonder but also a captivating destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Its stunning beauty and unique acoustics make it a must-visit location for anyone traveling...

No visit to Oban is complete without a Staffa Island Tour. I was lucky enough to attend the last shuttle over before COVID lockdowns came into effect back in 2020.

The trip was just one of the best experiences I had and the guides were great. Be sure to hold onto the boat railing well and tight if you’re going to be game enough to brave the journey outside the safety of the seating cabin. I surely felt that every time we hit a wave, just one gust would have send me absolutely flying overboard… but, experiencing the salt water and sun on my skin… I consider myself a reckless adventurer so I’ll most likely sit by the side again when I go back. 😅

Be sure to wear a warm waterproof jacket and a good pair of hiking shorts with grip. Being obviously so close to the water, be sure to mind your step as you climb the stairs towards the hill’s surface. note: There is no accessible wheelchair support for this tour

As you approach the island, you’re imparted with the story of Fingal’s cave and the history of legends, kings and poets that have stayed and were spiked with inspiration after their visit. Just seeing the natural hexagonal stone formations is incredible to witness, but then you granted a precious hour to roam on the hilltop. As enormous the land area is, an hour is not enough for photographers and most of us zoomed around like a rabid pack of absinthe faerys gasping for air (or maybe that was just me). I’d honestly go again just to take everything in once more with slow, humble pace and...

Wonderful. Plan on 3 Island tour. It will take 2 days of your vacation. Have to pick up your pre paid boarding passes 24 (hours of open is a small wi dow) hours ahead of time. Dpe d the rest of the day exoring Oban. You won't need more than that...Early Bird trip worked best for us. Take snacks that you can carry with a bottle of water to share. Keep hydrated. The first part of the journey rhe boat ride over to Null. Has food and the daily commuters do recommend the breakfast. Eat fast, visit the toilet. You will be instructed to immediately board the bus. They wait for no one. Beautiful ride to next stop. The ride to Staffa is beautiful... we had fog and so.e patches of sun. Have wonderful photos. The time on Staffa is too short to see both the cave and the puffins. Your group may want to sit up and share eachothers memories. The ride to Iona we save the dorsal fins of 2 different Orca whales. A few jelly fish, seals and birds. Iona, there is a place to get cafeteria style food. I had the potato leak soup. It did a great warm up. Walked around a bit. The church was so crowded we could of spent our time better. There is a tea room, again the wait. Do visit the Toilet... time to ride the boat back to Null, fast walk to bus and to find your bus. Plan your sitting so you get to see both sides of the trip. Or if you need to rest your eyes. Your...