Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye
Oh, the Fairy Pools of Scotland’s Isle of Skye! Such a place of breath-taking beauty, where crystal-clear blue pools of the River Brittle are surrounded by the regal Black Cuillins. A place where adventurous souls seek to immerse themselves in the wild and bracing waters, and others come to capture its splendour with a click of their cameras.
The Hike to the Fairy Pools
The hike to the Fairy Pools takes you on a 2.4 km round-trip journey and takes approximately 30 minutes on average, with many visitors spending extra time exploring the different pools along the way. The hike is rated as short in length and medium in difficulty, making it accessible to most visitors.
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Location and Accessibility
The nearest village to the Fairy Pools is Carbost, located on the west side of Skye, and the start of the hike is on the road to Glenbrittle. The Forestry Commission gravel car park, which is signposted as “Glumagan Na Sithichean” and also mentions the Fairy Pools, is located along the single-track road leading to Glenbrittle from Carbost, which is just a 10-minute drive away. Portree is a 30-minute drive of 20.5 miles away.
The Landscape around the Fairy Pools
The hike to the Fairy Pools offers breathtaking views of the Black Cuillins and follows a well-maintained gravel path that includes river crossings over stepping stones. It takes about 20 minutes to reach the first, largest waterfall and the start of the pools.
The Journey Through the Enchanting Fairy Pools
Starting from the car park, cross the public road to find the beginning of the path, which is marked by a small green sign labeled “Sligaghan.” The initial descent can be steep and rough, but it improves after a few meters. The path then levels out and crosses a peat moor with Heather and Grasses before reaching the main River Brittle, which remains on the right-hand side for the remainder of the hike. There are two river crossings, each with large stepping stones, but the second crossing can be challenging on wet days.
Essential Tips for Visiting the Fairy Pools
At the first waterfall, the journey through the enchanting Fairy Pools begins. Visitors can take their time to explore each of the pools, some of which are great for swimming but never warm, so it’s always a good idea to bring a wetsuit. The first waterfall is the tallest and deepest, offering high jumps for the daring. The most famous pool, a beautifully clear blue pool with a natural arch for an underwater swim, is further up the river. The hike back to the car park takes about 20 minutes.
Visit the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye and experience the magic for yourself!
Frequently asked questions…
How long does it take to walk to Fairy Pools?
It takes approximately 30 minutes to walk to the Fairy Pools.
Are the Fairy Pools worth it?
It depends on personal preference, but many people consider the Fairy Pools to be worth a visit.
Can you swim at the Fairy Pools?
Yes, you can swim at the Fairy Pools, but the water is cold.
Why are they called the Fairy Pools?
They are called the Fairy Pools because the crystal clear water and scenic surroundings are said to resemble a fairy land.
What do you wear to Fairy Pools?
It is recommended to wear appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear for the hike to the Fairy Pools and for swimming.
Are there toilets at the Fairy Pools?
Yes, there are toilets available at the Fairy Pools car park.
How long is the walk from car park to Fairy Pools?
The walk from the car park to the Fairy Pools is about 1.5 miles (2.4 km).
How cold is the water in the Fairy Pools?
The water in the Fairy Pools is cold all year round.
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