Name pronunciation:
BOH-dakh CLAY-kin JER-ig
General Information:
The Bodach Cleocain Deirg is a little-known Highland figure said to haunt Coylumbridge, near Aviemore in the Cairngorms. His name means “The Old Man (or Spectre) of the Red Cloak.” References to him are rare, and no written accounts describe his deeds in detail. However, his story belongs to the landscape once known as Cuing Leum — “The Narrow Leap” — the place where travellers crossed the river before a bridge was built.
Appearance:
Very little has been recorded about what the Bodach Cleocain Deirg looked like. Only his name gives a hint, describing an old man or apparition in a red cloak. Beyond that, there are no surviving accounts of his face, shape, or manner. The colour red, however, may have been significant — often used in Scottish folklore to mark warning, danger, or supernatural power.
Habitat:
The Bodach’s association lies with Coylumbridge, south-east of Aviemore, where the River Druie runs through the glen before joining the Spey. Before the modern bridge, the area was called Cuing Leum — “The Narrow Leap” — reflecting the difficult crossing point. A short distance up the road towards the Loch Morlich route lies the Medicine Well, located on the south bank of the Luinneag, which flows out of Loch Morlich. The well is well known for its strong sulphurous smell, noticeable before one reaches it.
Behaviour:
The Bodach Cleocain Deirg’s actions are uncertain. Some local traditions question whether he was a helper or a threat. Did he aid travellers to cross safely at The Narrow Leap? Or did he exploit those who slipped and drowned? The absence of detail keeps both possibilities open. Likewise, he may have been connected to the nearby Medicine Well, where visitors seeking healing once left silver coins as offerings. If so, it is unclear whether he protected the site or benefited from the gifts left there.
Shape-shifting Ability:
There is no evidence or account indicating that the Bodach Cleocain Deirg could change shape. Unlike other Highland spirits or “bodachs,” his form and abilities remain undocumented beyond the mention of a red cloak.
Variant:
- Bodach: A term used across the Highlands meaning “old man,” often applied to ghosts, warnings, or guardian spirits.
- The name connects him to other Highland bodach traditions — figures who may appear as warnings, omens, or watchers near crossing points or thresholds.
Location in Scotland:
- Coylumbridge (formerly Cuing Leum – “The Narrow Leap”), near Aviemore, Highland region.
Stories/ Sightings or Experiences:
The Bodach of Cuing Leum
Before the bridge at Coylumbridge was built, locals spoke of a place called The Narrow Leap. It was a risky crossing, and legend hints that a red-cloaked figure lingered nearby. Some thought he might guide travellers over the dangerous gap; others feared he appeared only when someone was about to fall. Nothing concrete survives, but his name alone connects him to that narrow crossing — and to the risks and mysteries of the place.
The Medicine Well
A little to the east of Coylumbridge lies the Medicine Well, a sulphur spring known for its strong smell and supposed healing powers. People from Braemar are said to have made long journeys through the Lairig Ghru to drink from it. According to some accounts, they left silver coins in thanks for the healing water. It is unknown whether the Bodach Cleocain Deirg was linked with these offerings — whether as guardian of the site or collector of its gifts — but the two traditions are close in both distance and spirit.
Purpose of the myth or Legend:
Although few details remain, the Bodach Cleocain Deirg story may have served to mark places of danger and significance. The Narrow Leap at Coylumbridge was risky before the bridge; the Medicine Well demanded respect and ritual. The Bodach’s presence in these stories reminds listeners to approach both crossings and sacred wells with care. Even with the barest traces of his legend, he remains part of the living folklore of the Cairngorms — a spectral echo of an older landscape.
