St Ninian's cave

After visiting the closed St Ninian's chapel we headed off to St Ninian's cave. St Ninian was Scotland's first saint and the cave is thought to be a retreat where he prayed. Driving from the Isle of Whithorn to Kidsdale, where the path to the cave starts, we were stunned by the blue haze of bluebells that extended throughout the woods.

The cave was also closed - apparently it was dangerous...however everyone clearly ignores the barrier to go up to the cave. The walk down to the coast was through a woodland glen, with lots of bluebells which led to the beach and cave.  It was quite a thought provoking place of pilgrmiage with old carvings and plenty of offerings. 

Approaching the cave.

Carvings....

Crosses.....

Coins....

and offerings.

Signs of the winds that were about to batter us! 

Unfurling ferns...

Wild garlic.

The path through the woods.