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Geology and Landscape in the

Geology and Landscape in the
Inner Hebrides
17th – 23rd May 2008 Cost: £360


The Isle of Eigg is a beautiful place to study geology at all levels. The Sgurr of Eigg commands one of the finest views in Scotland, in which all the elements of the geology of the Highlands and Islands can be seen. The Sgurr pitchstone itself is the youngest volcanic rock in the country. Its base fills a valley carved in the basalts beneath and these rest, in their turn, on fossil bearing Jurassic sedimentary rocks beautifully exposed at Laig Bay. The famous Singing Sands of the present beach are derived from them. The responses of these varied rock types to glacial erosion since the ice age and to marine erosion and landslip forces since, have shaped the present landscape and determined man's use of it.

Day outings will explore the geology of the Jurassic sandstones, with basalt dykes, at Laig Bay and the singing sands; limestones with fossils at the north end of the island, basaltic lavas with their gas bubbles and columnar joint-pattern, and the Sgurr pitchstone ridge.

Weather and ferries permitting we hope to visit the nearby Isle of Muck for views of the Sgurr from the south, Jurassic oyster beds and further igneous intrusions. The local geology will be put into its regional context in evening sessions and there will be plenty of opportunity to see the birds and plants of the island.

No previous geological experience is necessary. However, long walks are involved and participants must be fit for walking over rough, hilly terrain and rocky shores.
Older children are welcome, but participants should be aware that they are fully responsible for their own safety, and that of children accompanying them, at all times.

Tutor: Professor John Hudson
Professor John Hudson (Ph.D. Cambridge), recently retired from the University of Leicester, has over 40 years experience of studying the Geology of the area and has been the author of several papers on the subject. He is a contributor to extra mural courses. John knows the island well and has led many field study groups to Scotland and the Alps.

The Glebe Barn Field Study Centre
Isle of Eigg, PH42 4RL
Tel: 01687 482417
e-mail: simon@glebebarn.co.uk

 

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