Caiplie Coves Earthcache EarthCache
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The Caiplie Coves - a multi-coloured weathered feature situated on the Fife Coastal Path between Cellardyke and Crail.
Red sandstone has been carved out by waves from ancient seas in post-glacial times to form a web of caves, holes, pillars, passages and arches. The striations, layers and banding seen on the rocks is extraordinary, and the colours, particularly on the western side, are wonderful.
As well as being a curious geological feature, this site also has historical connections. It has been associated with Iron Age settlement - previous excavations within the caves having revealed many cattle bones, boars tusks and deer horns. In Early Christian times, monks and pilgrims travelling to St Andrews also carved crosses in the caves and St Adrian is thought to have lived in the largest cave.
To approach from west side park at Cellardyke - N56 13.729 W002 40.782 - the coves are just over 1.5miles away from here, follow the coastal path which is clear for most of the way. Alternatively, you could approach from the east, parking at Crail - which would be a slightly shorter route.
To claim this cache please do both of the following:
(1) Take a photo of the Coves with your GPS and/or yourself present in the picture, or email me to let me know what is present at N56 14.598 W002 38.872.
(2) It is said that if you throw a stone through the hole on the south-westerly cliff, then a wish will come true! Please make an estimate of the height and width of this hole - this will help to monitor the current rate of erosion.
Additional Hints
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