If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, the Isle of Skye is an absolute must-visit. Nestled in the Scottish Highlands, it boasts the finest outdoor hiking trails in the whole of Scotland—at least in my opinion. The hiking experience here is nothing short of breathtaking, with lush, verdant meadows stretching between majestic peaks, creating scenery so beautiful it takes your breath away.
All in all, the Scottish Highlands are well worth a visit in their own right, but Skye should be at the top of your itinerary. Choosing the best hiking route isn’t easy, but my top recommendation is the Quiraing Walk.
Getting to the start of the Quiraing loop is straightforward; simply set your satnav to **Quiraing Car Park**.
Parking fees: €3 for 3 hours, €5 for 6 hours. The fees are primarily used to maintain the car park and facilities such as the toilets. Card payments are accepted, making it very convenient even if you don’t have cash. Once you’ve paid, simply place the parking ticket on your windscreen.
My first piece of advice for this walk is: make sure you set off early. Although people are always saying ‘get there early’, on this occasion, you’ll be absolutely glad you took the advice. This trail is extremely popular and can get very crowded, but as soon as you set foot on this stunningly scenic dirt track, you’ll immediately understand why it’s so popular.
Hiking Information
Length: 6.3 km (add approximately 700 metres if heading to the viewpoint)
Duration: approx. 3 hours
Difficulty: moderate
Type: circular
Starting point: Quiraing car park, Portree IV51 9LB
Cost: €3 for 3 hours’ parking
Maps: a range of specialist walking maps are available from IsleofSkye.com
From the car park, the trail is clearly signposted. The scenery along the way is so breathtaking that it’s easy to lose track of the path beneath your feet. During the busy season, simply following the crowd will ensure you don’t get lost. However, if you choose to set off at a quieter time, be sure to turn right at the first junction after leaving the car park to complete the loop in an anti-clockwise direction – this offers the best experience.
There are countless superb photo spots along the way, with backdrops as beautiful as computer screensavers. In my opinion, the most picturesque vantage points are concentrated in the first part of the route.
After about a 30-minute walk, you’ll come across the iconic Needle and Prison peaks. Continue along the path, and more rugged, jagged peaks will gradually come into view in the distance. At the next fork near the cliff face, turn left; this leads through a short, steep section as you climb up to the ridge line.
You can then choose to continue along the loop trail or take a detour to an additional viewpoint. If you have the energy, I strongly recommend taking the detour – the most breathtaking views lie on the flat-topped mountain to your right. I considered giving up at one point, but I’m so glad I persevered and completed this section. The climb to the summit takes about 15–20 minutes; although it’s uphill, it’s not particularly strenuous. The view before you is simply beyond words.
Once you’ve taken in the scenery with your heart and captured as much of it as possible with your camera, head back the way you came until you reach the fork in the path again. At this point, turn right. You’ll see a narrow path that climbs up the cliff you passed on your way here. This section is certainly tiring, but you must see it through. As soon as the magnificent view comes into view, you’ll quickly forget how drenched in sweat you were just moments ago. There are many superb vantage points along the way, but please be mindful of your safety and watch your step when taking photographs. One false move and you could easily slip and fall.
Continue along the circular route. When I walked the final stretch, the path was extremely muddy. If you’re hiking this route after it has rained, the mud is unavoidable. You’ll just have to accept it and watch your step. On the descent, the path may become a little hard to follow, but as long as you head towards the car park, you’ll be fine. Eventually, the path joins a junction, so it’s hard to get lost. Even if you lose your way for a bit, don’t panic – just keep the car park in sight and head in that direction.
What you’ll need:
Water, as always.
Please wear suitable, sturdy footwear, as the ground may be muddy and slippery.
Snacks – never go hiking on an empty stomach, as that’s no good for anyone.
A hat.
Sunscreen.
A camera or your mobile phone’s camera.
Have you ever been to Skye? Have you walked the Cuillin Way? Or have you added it to your travel wish list?
