Natural wonders of the Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran’s landscape is defined by its dramatic geological formations and diverse water features. This collection highlights the island's prominent sea caves, including the historic King’s Cave and the massive basalt Black Cave at Bennan Head. Inland, the list features the 140-foot double-drop Glenashdale Falls and the granite pools of Glenrosa. From the secluded sands of Cleats Shore to the legendary Ossian's Cave, these sites showcase the varied natural terrain of the Firth of Clyde.

Arran's Natural Wonders — Map

dave souza / CC BY-SA 4.0

A

King's Cave

King's Cave is the largest of a series of seafront caves north of Blackwaterfoot on the Isle of Arran in Scotland.

B

Glenashdale Falls

A 140-foot double-drop waterfall located near Whiting Bay. The site is accessible via a wooded trail that also passes the Giant’s Graves Neolithic chambered cairns.

C

Easa Cumhang

A waterfall situated on the Glenashdale Burn, located upstream from the larger Glenashdale Falls.

D

Glenrosa Falls

A series of small cascades and deep granite swimming pools located along the Rosa Burn in the U-shaped valley of Glen Rosa.

E

Preaching Cave

A large sandstone cave at Kilmory used for open-air religious services during the 18th and 19th centuries.

F

Black Water

A river and pond system flowing through the Shiskine Valley and reaching the sea at Blackwaterfoot.

G

Cleats Shore

A secluded stretch of sandy coastline on the southwest of the island, officially designated as a clothing-optional beach.

H

Black Cave

A massive sea cave located at Bennan Head, characterized by its high ceiling and dark basalt walls.

I

Clach a' Chath

A large fallen boulder located in Glen Sannox, historically associated with local clan skirmishes.

J

Eas Geal

A waterfall on the Machrie Burn, known locally for the white foam created as it descends toward the west coast.

K

Ossian's Cave

A small cave located on the slopes of Clauchlands Hill, named after the legendary Gaelic bard Ossian.

Other Lists

Isle of Arran Essentials Arran's Peaks and Viewpoints Ancient Sites of Arran Castles & Historic Ruins