Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve ***
Region: Caithness, Sutherland & Ross
© Copyright G Laird and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence
Description:
Corrieshalloch may mean ‘Ugly Hollow’ in Gaelic, but there is nothing ugly about Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve - a deep tree-shrouded chasm and beauty spot that cuts through a Highland wilderness rich in flora and fauna.
Corrieshalloch is a slot gorge, or box-canyon, that was cut as far back as 2.6 million years ago by Ice Age glacial meltwater. The River Droma forges through the gorge, dramatically dropping 100 metres in just 1.25 km through a series of waterfalls, including the thunderous 45 m high Falls of Measach.
A brace of trails opens up the gorge to walkers, with a Victorian suspension bridge built by Sir John Fowler (one of the chief engineers behind the Forth Bridge), a jaw-dropping viewing platform and a viewpoint on hand to help visitors appreciate the full drama of Corrieshalloch Gorge, one of the wonders of the West Highlands.