Six miles west of the Isle of Mull in the Inner Hebrides, off the west coast of Scotland lies the tiny, uninhabited island of Staffa. Now in the care of the National Trust of Scotland, this miniature marvel manages to pack in some of the earth’s most outstanding natural wonders in a very compact space.

Staffa is entirely volcanic in origin and the name is derived from Old Norse, meaning stave or pillar and is so called because of the impressive hexagonal basalt rock formations that appear to rise from the sea in great columns. It is also home to vast colonies of puffins and the jewel in the crown, Fingal’s Cave.

If you were to believe the legend, Fingal was a Gaelic giant, who upon having a difference of opinion with a giant from Ulster built a causeway between Ireland and Scotland so that the two could fight and settle the dispute. Once the causeway had been destroyed, all that remained were the two ends, one at Staffa and the other is the Giant’s Causeway in Antrim, Northern Ireland.

Previously known by it’s Gaelic name, Uamh Binn which means ‘melodious cave’, Fingal’s Cave is approximately 150 feet long, 46 feet wide and 72 feet high. It’s size and arched roof have been likened to a natural cathedral and the echoes of the waves produce eerie and musical sounds apparently emanating from deep within.

When classical composer Felix Mendelssohn visited the site in 1829, he was immediately inspired by the melodic tones and set about writing Hebrides Overture Opus 26, commonly known as Fingal’s Cave Overture in an attempt to replicate them.

Although the island is now a protected National Nature Reserve, it is still possible to visit. Boat trips leave the mainland and nearby islands between Easter and September. Be aware that Staffa has no natural harbor and landing will be dependent on sea conditions.

Photo Credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

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