Ossian's Cave

Useful Information

Location:	5 km east of Glencoe, above river Coe on the way to Glencoe pass. On the northern face of The Three Sisters' peak of Aonach Dubh. Lochaber district of Highland Council Area. A82 from Ballachulish through Glencoe to the waterfall at Allt-na-reigh. (56.6632, -5.0105)
Open:	No restrictions. [2021]
Fee:	free. [2021]
Classification:	erosional cave
Light:	bring torch
Dimension:
Guided tours:	self guided
Photography:	allowed
Accessibility:	no
Bibliography:
Address:
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History

Description

To reach Ossian's Cave high up at the slope of Aonach Dubh, one of The Three Sisters, a little hike is necessary. Glen Coe is probably the most populated wilderness of the world, thousands of tourists drive through this valley on a nice summer day. Only few of them stop, almost nobody starts a hike here. The reason is the restricted number of trails, but also the wide and monotonous landscape. There are almost no trees or even shrubs, only grass, fen and heather. But the trail to Ossian's cave is a true highlight and well worth the effort.

Start at the road below the waterfall, there is a trail running along river Coe parallel to the road. At one point is a bridge, and now the trail goes down valley, continually ascending the slope of the mountains. The path follows the small Allt Coire Gabhail burn up a glen, which occasionally vanishes underground. The walk is about 5 km long and fairly easy, but the last part to the cave requires some experience in climbing.

Ossian was the son of Fion and Sadbh. Sadbh was turned into a deer by the druid Fer Doirich. As Fionn hunted and caught her, but did not kill her, she was released. But Fer Doirich transformed her again and she ran away pregnant. Ossian was born in this cave in Glen Coe. Many years later he met his father on Ben Bulben.