Hiking on the Isle of Skye

The Black Cuillin

For mountain lovers, the best hiking routes around the Isle of Skyeare those found amongst the Black Cuillin. Forged from the remains of an ancient volcano’s magma chamber, the Cuillin are Britain’s youngest and most intimidating mountain range. Hewn of basalt and gabbro rock, their serrated forms and devilish spires set them apart from the mountains of the British mainland, both in terms of character and challenge.

While most of the summits involve a fair amount of scrambling to attain, there are plenty of superb objectives for hikers, both around and among the Cuillin. The neighbouring Red Cuillin are easier to ascend and reward with magnificent panoramas, while there are plenty of places to seek out unique views of the range.

Staggering peninsulas, ancient landslides and a majestic coast

As impressive as they are, the Cuillin are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to hikes around the Isle of Skye. The Trotternish Peninsula is another uniquely mesmerising place to hike. It is characterised by an immense landslide that runs for around 20 miles (32 km) along its hilly spine. This landslip has created some of Skye’s most iconic sights, such as the gothic pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr and the otherworldly formations of the Quiraing. Away from these two much-visited sights, the entire Trotternish range is a delight to explore.

Nowhere else in Britain fuses staggering mountain landscapes and majestic coast quite like Skye. Its storm-battered cliffs, dramatic headlands and white sand beaches are wonderful, backed by the islands of the Hebrides. Under the summer sun, the waters of its bays appear almost tropical blue and wildlife is a constant along the shore. 

Skye practicalities

Motorists can access Skye from the Scottish mainland via Skye Bridge, while there are also ferries from Harris, North Uist and from the mainland at Mallaig, which can be accessed by train from Glasgow. Portree is the main town on the island and is a good base, while Sligachan and Glen Brittle are the best base camps for Cuillin adventure.

Walks around the Isle of Skye are always at the whim of the elements. Expect atmospheric, cloudy weather and come prepared for plenty of rain. It makes those rare clear days all the more magical. Of course, warm and wet summer days are favoured by midges, so make sure you have repellent and also pack a tick twister.