Scotland is rich with sights that give the sense of being transported to a fantasy world. One of Scotland’s transporting destinations is the Fairy Pools in the Isle of Skye. These pools, situated in the Highlands just outside of Glen Brittle, provide visitors with enchanting sights and memories to last a lifetime. With our insider guide to exploring Scotland’s Fairy Pools, you’ll find the best tips for experiencing this otherworldly destination.
How to get there
The pools are located at the base of the Black Cuillins mountains and are a ten-minute drive from Glen Brittle. For an overnight journey, staying in Glen Brittle offers a few accommodations. Alternately, with an easy two-hour car ride from Inverness, you can experience the Fairy Pools in just a day.
To reach the Fairy Pools, you’ll need to embark on a short hike through the Black Cuillins mountains. The trail starts at the Forestry Commission’s parking lot and traverses through the mountainside to reach the Fairy Pools. The hike is 1.5 miles and boasts many sights, from waterfalls and rivers to mystical glens.
What to do once you’re there
Swimming in the Pools
After you’ve trekked the beautiful hike, you’ll arrive at the first Fairy Pool of the Isle of Skye. In the summer, you can cool off with a swim in the pools. All the pools and rivers are open to swimmers and offer unique views from the water. For the brave, the first waterfall you encounter has excellent cliff diving, with a deep pool and high cliffs.
Hiking in the Area
Next, another hike chock-full of stunning scenery! Head past the first fairy pool, and onto the trail leading to Coire na Creiche. The hike is 5 miles long and takes you through the scenic Water Pipe Gully of Glen Brittle. This passage provides an excellent viewpoint of the location where the historic battle of Coire na Creiche took place. We think you’ll agree, the hike is well worth the workout with incredible views of the Isle of Skye you wouldn’t otherwise see.
History Check: The battle of Coire na Creiche was the location of the feud between Clan MacLeod of Dunvegan and clan MacDonald of Sleat. The battle, taking place in 1601, was a grueling clan war and ended with a MacDonald victory.
Traveling Soul Tours: Your Fairy Pools Guide
For many, the Fairy Pools of the Isle of Skye are one of Scotland’s best adventures. From daring activities to breathtaking views, these pools appear to be straight out of a storybook. Are you ready to be transported to these enchanting pools and more Scottish adventures? Traveling Soul Tours is your answer!
Traveling Soul Tours creates customized Private Tours with expert local guides. All our guides have deep local knowledge they love to share, allowing you to cultivate a richer understanding of your destination. In addition, we personalize your itinerary to include special places, originality, privacy and personal touches just for you! And, if you’re not sure, we always have exciting ideas to share. Get started today by taking our Travel Quiz and you’ll be one step closer to your one-of-a-kind experience!
