Staffa, a name for Pillar Island, is an island of the Inner Hebrides in Argyll and Bute, Scotland. The Vikings gave it this name as its columnar basalt reminded them of their houses, which were built from vertically placed tree-logs. The island is entirely of volcanic origin. It lies about 10 kilometers (6.2 mi) west of the Isle of Mull. The area is 33 hectares (0.13 sq mi). |
Many famous personalities visited the island after it was discovered by Sir Joseph Banks in the 18 th century. He was fascinated by the natural beauty of the basalt columns and its main sea cavern, which Banks re-named 'Fingal's Cave'. |
Among the prominent people who visited the island were Queen Victoria and Felix Mendelssohn, who later brought further fame to the island by writing the island very beautiful and gave a name to its main sea cavern during the 18th and 19th centuries. The island came to prominence in the late 18th century after a visit by Hebrides Overture opus 26. |
The "pillars" are columnar joints. These develop due to slow cooling of basalt. The fractures are produced as it accommodates contraction as it cools due to the internal crystal-structure of basalt. Although this all happened underground, it got exposed as everything around it eroded away. |
Perhaps the Most Scenic Train Rides in the World...
Although there are much quicker ways of traveling, using a train is arguably much more picturesque than the others. Here are the 7 most scenic train rides.
I Would Give Anything to Visit These Incredible Places!
These breathtaking views are a "must see" for any nature lover. Warning! if you're afraid of heights these photos might leave you feeling a little dizzy.
Black Sand & Blue Seas Make These Beaches Spectacular
As beautiful as the beaches may be, there is something alluring and mysteriously beautiful about black sand beaches. Take a look.
Scotland Is One of the Most Beautiful Places on Earth
Scotland, as these 16 photos will prove, truly is a place of remarkable beauty.
Are These the Most Beautiful Streets in the World?
There's something so charming and beautiful about these streets that are surrounded by trees. Take a look at these stunning streets.
These Paths Are Just Too Beautiful Not to Walk On...
These gorgeous paths are an amazing treat to walk on, I hope I get to one day...
What's the Dirtiest Place on the Plane?
If you were asked what the dirtiest place on the plane was, what would you answer? The next study is going to surprise you and change your mind about dirty places.
The Incredible Sights and Sites of Salamanca, Spain!
Looking at the most interesting and beautiful parts of Salamanca, Spain
10 Majestic, Ornate Temples in Thailand Worth Visiting
If you're curious to know more, we're talking about the top ten most beautiful and impressive temples hidden in Thailand!
10 Jaw-Dropping Routes You Need to Add to Your Travel List!
The world is full of scenic landscapes, and trekking along these routes is undoubtedly the best way to let them awe you!
8 Glorious Places on Earth That Are Largely Untouched
Here is a look at some of the most amazing untouched destinations on Earth that are inhabited by very few people.
Have You Ever Seen Bulgaria's Vast Nature?
Come fly with us over the heartbreaking vistas of Bulgaria.
Japan's 9 Most Underrated Destinations You MUST Visit
Have you visited any of these underrated destinations in Japan?
12 Amazing Croatian Islands That Beg to Be Visited
Discover 12 beautiful islands in Croatia that have what every tourist wants from a vacation.
These Are 7 of the Most Beautiful Gardens in the World
These must-see gardens from all over are among the most beautiful in the world.
When You Go to Japan, It's Like You're on Another Planet!
Japan is a country that'll surprise you so much, you'd be forgiven for thinking that you've arrived in another country. Take a look!
A Beauty to See: 10 Sun-Drenched, Rainbow Colored Cities
I love visiting a great city for the first time, but seeing these multi-colored rainbow cities I feel like if I went there I would never leave. See what I mean?
Thailand Is Home to Some Jaw-Dropping Places to Visit
Thailand is hugely popular with tourists from all over the world, and to be honest, it's not hard to see why. Check out these 12 amazing attractions and places.
17 of the World's Most Delightful Roads
If you love driving, you probably have your favorite road or roads, but these 17 spectacular roads will definitely trump your personal favorites. Check them out!
Georgia Is the Most Beautiful Country You’ve Never Been To
The sights and attractions of the Caucasian country of Georgia
Welcome to One of the Most Beautiful French Cities...
Prepare to immerse yourself in all that Montpellier has to offer - discover what sights are truly worth seeing and experiences worth having.
These Islands Are Quite Simply the World's Most Magical
The world is home to many beautiful islands, but only some can truly be called magical. Here are 12 of the most magical islands in the entire world.
Chile Has So Many Beautiful Natural Wonders It's Unfair
These photos will show you just why more than 2 million people come to Chile every year.
It's Hard to Believe These Hotels Really Exist!
Hotels can be much more than just a place to sleep, take a shower and change your clothes! Here are 18 unique and splendid hotels from around the globe.
You Better Move Your Shop, the Train is Coming.
This is pretty unbelievable, yet has become routine to these folks..
8 Island Cities that Are Wonderful Places to Visit
These densely-populated islands are intriguing, and each boasts a unique history.
10 Beautiful Places in Austria You Must Visit!
We invite you to join a special journey in the country, looking at 10 different sites that are simply a must.
12 Exciting Hollywood Inspired Holiday Destinations
A list of 12 destinations that were used as movie sets and can now be visited
These Quotes Will Give You a New Perspective on Life
Some wonderful words about travel that can teach us all about life's great journey.
Take the Perfect Route to the Grand Canyon with Our Guide
Everything to see and do from the Four Corners to the North Rim
13 Free Attractions to Enjoy in the City of London
Remember that exploring London doesn't have to be an expensive venture - with careful planning and inclusion of free attractions in your itinerary...
The Most Dazzling Ancient Castles and Fortresses on Earth
Featured in this sizeable collection of articles are the most noteworthy castles, palace and fortresses in Europe and beyond
This Is Why Iceland Is a Country Like No Other
Iceland is a country full of interesting traditions and rich history - delve into this fascinating country with these 11 surprising facts!
These Monasteries Are Hard to Get To, But It's Worth It...
It's not easy to get to these beautiful monasteries, but it's worth it...
Escape From the World to These Beautiful US Hideaways
Did you know that you can escape from the world right here in the United States? Here are 10 beautiful US hideaways to escape to.
This Stunning Island Is Often Called the Eighth Continent
Madagascar is an island of outstanding beauty that's worth a visit. From stunning national parks, to picture-perfect beaches, here are its top 10 attractions.
Amazing: The 10 Most Enchanting Sea Caves In The World
A visit to a sea cave guarantees sights you won't see every day, so get to know the 10 most beautiful sea caves in the world, which beg to be visited..
Tired of Touring the Same Cities? Check Out THESE Pearls!
We always consider major capitals as great destinations to visit, however there are other towns and cities that are wonderful, yet less obvious. Here are 12.
Paris 100 Years Ago: A Story in Vintage Photos
These rare, vintage photos show how Paris used to be in the early 20th Century. Take in the nostalgic sights in this post.
These 10 Super Island Cities Float Like Brilliant Boats
Some of the greatest cities in the world are actually like magnificent boats. They are islands of civilization and wonder floating in the world's seas.
Welcome to One of the Most Beautiful Isles in the World
This video will take you all around Koh Samui with the help of a drone.
Welcome to the Most Colorful Town in the Entire World
Whoever thought that the most colorful town in the world would be a little settlement of 5,000 people in the heart of Colombia!? Here it is in all its glory.
This Timelapse of Alaska Will Take Your Breath Away
Witness the incredible beauty of Alaska in this short, timelapse film
Fascinating! Never-Before-Seen Images of the Titanic
Explore the Titanic like you've never seen it before with these rare photos.
Go On An Unforgettable Trip In the Southern Netherlands!
The Netherlands is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, get to know the country by taking an 8 day trip in the southern part of it with out guide.
25 Reasons I Can't Wait to Visit South Africa!
This is why you'll pick South Africa for your next vacation!
Kathmandu Looks Exceptionally Stunning in 4K
If you've never been to Kathmandu before, then this is the perfect place to start!