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Nature · Portree, Escócia
Fairy Pools
The clear-water pools and waterfalls of the Allt Coir' a' Mhadaidh stream in Glen Brittle under the Cuillin mountains, in the south of the Isle of Skye, with a trail of about 2.4 km.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Fairy Pools
The Fairy Pools are a series of pools and small waterfalls on the stream that flows down from the Black Cuillin into Glen Brittle in the south of the Isle of Skye. The water runs over dark rock and, on sunny days, turns blue and green and is very clear. The jagged gabbro mountains in the background complete the scene.
The trail starts from a car park on the Glen Brittle road, crosses the stream on stepping stones and climbs gently along the bank, passing several falls and pools, to about 2.4 km from the start; the round trip is almost 5 km. The path is dirt and gravel with no big climbs, but the stone crossings can become difficult after heavy rain when the stream rises.
Some visitors get into the water, which is very cold year-round even in summer; others just walk and photograph. The name comes from folklore that links the place to fairies, as with other spots on Skye.
The car park is run by the local community, is paid and fills up in summer. The Glen Brittle road is single-track. There are no toilets or services on the trail other than those at the car park.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1.5 to 2 hours round trip, with stops at the pools.
Best time
Early morning on a sunny day to see the colour of the water and avoid a full car park. From May to September the trail is usually in better condition. After heavy rain the stream rises and the crossings become difficult.
How to get there
The car park is on the Glen Brittle road, about 35 km from Portree, roughly a 45-minute drive via Sligachan and Carbost. There is no regular bus service to the site; go by car or on a tour.
Tip
Bring footwear that can get wet or waterproof boots for the rock crossings. On the way back, stop at the Talisker distillery in Carbost, a few kilometres away.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Fairy Pools
Can you swim in the Fairy Pools?
Some visitors get in, but the water is very cold year-round. Most people just walk and take photos.
Is the trail difficult?
It's easy with no major climbs, about 5 km round trip. The rock crossings become difficult when the stream is high.
How to get to the Fairy Pools?
By car or on a tour, via the Glen Brittle road, about 45 minutes from Portree.
What's the best time to go?
Early morning on a sunny day, before the car park fills up.