A Guide to Visiting the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye – Includes EVERYTHING you need to know
The Fairy Pools are one of the most popular places to visit on the Isle of Skye. This stream of multiple waterfalls sits at the foot of the Black Cuillin Mountains, near Glenbrittle. The crystal clear blue pools are perfect for a wild swimming on the Isle of Skye with the stunning backdrop behind you.
If you are not feeling the cold water dip, make sure you have got your camera as this landscape is a photographers heaven.
There is charged parking available for the Fairy Pools and the pools are a short walk away from there.
The Fairy Pools are a must on your Isle of Skye itinerary. In this guide, we will discuss the best time to go to the Fairy Pools as well as the following
What are the Fairy Pools?
Where are the Fairy Pools?
How to get to the Fairy Pools?
Why Should I go to the Fairy Pools?
When Should I go to the Fairy Pools?
What are the Fairy Pools?
The Fairy Pools are a magnificent natural phenomenon on the Isle of Skye. Tourists flock to this part of the island every year to get a view of the cascading waterfalls in amongst the mountains. From the car park, the Fairy Pools are around a 20-30 minute walk away on some rough terrain which also includes crossing the river.
Where are the Fairy Pools?
The Fairy Pools are located in Glenbrittle on the Isle of Skye. They are a bit out of the way from many of the other popular tourist attractions on the island, however we would say that it is worth the trip if you visit at the right time. Although a short walk away, The Fairy Pools can be seen from single track road that you will drive along to get to the car park so they are very easy to find.
How to get to the Fairy Pools?
From Portree, it is around a 30 minute drive to get to the Fairy Pools. Follow the road signs for Carbost and turn towards Glenbrittle before you reach the town. Follow the single track road for around 10 minutes until you see the car park.
There is a free car park on the left just after the cattle grid. The walk will take maybe an extra 10 minutes from here.
The main car park for the Fairy Pools sits further down the hill on the right. Charges apply for this car park Car £6 , Motorhome/Other £8 , Minibus £15.
From the car park, you will see the path leading towards the Fairy Pools. This can be uneven underfoot so we would recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes. you will also need to cross some stepping stones across the river. During periods of heavy rain this can flood and the river may flow above the rocks.
There is no public transport service to the Fairy Pools. The nearest bus stop is Uig, a 30 minute walk away.
Why Should I go to the Fairy Pools?
This iconic natural formation is a popular place for walkers and those who enjoy wild swimming. There are many spots perfect for going for a dip in the crystal clear turquoise waters.
When Should I Visit the Isle of Skye?
Due to the popularity of the Fairy Pools, we would recommend avoiding the middle of the day to visit. Sunrise and sunset will allow you to enjoy the serenity of your surroundings at this beautiful spot without feeling like you are walking up a busy high street. Visiting after recent rainfall will allow you to see the river and waterfalls in full flow and make the water a bit deeper for swimming in. If the weather has been too dry, the river has been known to dry up.
So there you have it, your guide to where to stay on the Isle of Skye, glamping edition. If you are visiting this incredible place and have any other questions on what to expect, leave us a comment down below. We love to chat about this stuff! If you have already been, let us know how it was! Did you get a clear day to see the sights? Did you manage the trip without getting caught in the rain? Let us know in the comments below!
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