North West Highlands Geopark (2016) North West Highlands Geopark Geodiversity Audit and Action Plan 2013–2016
Additional notes: These web pages are sourced from the PDF North West Highlands Geopark Geodiversity Audit and Action Plan 2013–2016
NWHG Ref. 029 — Traligill Valley
Location, grid reference and photograph
The Traligill Valley extends south-eastwards from Inchnadamph, Grid Ref.
GCR site reference, block, volume and notified feature of SSSI?
GCR Ref. 1129, Karst and Caves Block, Vol. 12. Notified feature of Ben More Assynt SSSI.
Description and geological significance
The Traligill Valley is acknowledged as the finest area of glaciokarst landscape in Scotland and the most spectacular karstic scenery developed anywhere in Britain on limestones of other than Carboniferous age. The site area is important as it is the most recently deglaciated karst in Britain. Within the site there are a number of sinkholes feeding to multiple resurgences via extensive cave systems. The valleys are mostly dry and show features of progressive rejuvenation, providing a detailed record of landform development through the Pleistocene.
Accessibility
A rough path leading from Inchnadamph offers good access to the main valley but is unsuitable for all abilities.
Conservation
Low to moderate conservation requirement due to importance of protecting surface features from irresponsible sampling and relative ease of accessibility.
Visibility and “clarity”
The key aspects of the glaciokarst landscape are easily seen from the access path. Interpretation and interpretation potential There is currently no interpretation panel serving the main access path although interpretation boards covering a wide range of subject matter are located at the main car park adjacent to the entrance to the Inchnadamph Hotel on the east side of the A 837. There is considerable potential for erecting new interpretation panels at strategic locations up the valley and the area should certainly be included in a future Geopark guide. It is used regularly during the main visitor season by the Highland Council Countryside Rangers who conduct guided walks up the valley. Traligill valley features as a walk in the guidebook “Exploring the landscape of Assynt” The area is an important educational resource which has considerable potential for future development.
Key references
Geological Conservation Review Series, Volume 12: Karst and Caves of Great Britain, site description page 302.
LAWSON, T.J. 1988. Caves of Assynt, Grampian Speleological Group.