The Isle of Skye’s most beautiful attractions
22nd February 2021
From mountain spires piercing the sky to mystical glens peppered with fairy pools to gargantuan waterfalls tumbling off the edge of the world, there are many beautiful attractions to fill your adventures and ignite your soul within this remote isle.
The Old Man of Storr
One of the Isle of Skye’s most iconic features, the Old Man of Storr is a giant basalt stack that stands almost in defiance of gravity. Perched atop the Trotternish ridge, the Old Man has been a favourite destination amongst seasoned hikers for years and continues to capture hearts and imaginations. Accessible from the town of Portree, a 1.5-hour trek will take you to the top of Storr and reward you with incredible views over to Raasay and mainland Scotland.
Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
Just along the coast from the beautiful Brother’s Point, the aptly-named Kilt Rock and the stunning Mealt Falls await. Combining two of the Isle of Skye’s most beautiful attractions, this little pocket of the island features ancient, vertical cliffs (that bear a remarkable resemblance to a kilt) and a mighty waterfall that pours directly over the lip of the cliff and into the sea below.
Quiraing
Setting the scene for many silver screen performances, Quiraing simply exudes drama. Used as the location for the BFG, Stardust, Snow White and the Huntsman, King Arthur and Transformers – to name but a few – it has long wowed onlookers with its unusual geological formations (including the Needle, the Table and the Prison) and brooding atmosphere. In short, no road trip around Skye would be complete without a visit.
Coral Beach
Swapping crags for coral, a trip to Claigain’s lustrous Coral Beach will reveal a whole other side to the wilds of Skye. Made up of crushed white coral, the beach’s powder-fine sands and turquoise waters resemble scenes from the Mediterranean – with only the backdrop of mountains and bracing water temperatures giving the game away. Just around the corner from the majestic Dunvegan Castle, this beach is a must-see.
Fairy Glen
Tucked away in the hills above the village of Uig, Skye’s Fairy Glen is one of our favourite natural attractions in Skye. Almost a miniature version of Quiraing, the ethereal glen is peppered with weird and wonderful rock formations, giving rise to the area’s name. Whilst there are no believed sightings of fairies in the area, it’s not hard to get swept away by the glen’s enchanting atmosphere.
The Fairy Pools
If you are into your wild swimming and are looking for somewhere to take the plunge in Skye, then turn your attention to the island’s Fairy Pools located at the foot of the Black Cuillins. Providing one of the most awe-inspiring places to go for a wild dip in the UK, this series of crystal-clear pools is nothing short of mesmeric. And if the views don’t take your breath away, the water temperature certainly will!
Loch Coruisk
Loch Coruisk (Scottish Gaelic for ‘the Cauldron of Waters’) was described by Lord Tennyson as being “the wildest scene in the Highlands”. A slim tendril of a lake at 2 miles long and only 400 yards wide, this glacial loch is said to be the home of wild kelpie, or water horse. For one of the best loch experiences, take a boat from nearby Elgol across Loch Scavaig and arrive at the entrance of the legendary Coruisk.
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