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Nature · Portree, Escócia
Neist Point
The westernmost cape of Ilha de Skye, with a 1909 lighthouse at the end of a path along cliffs, from which you can see the Hébridas Exteriores and, occasionally, whales and dolphins.
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 Neist Point
Neist Point is a cape at the western tip of Ilha de Skye, on the Duirinish peninsula, about 35 km from Dunvegan. A white lighthouse, lit since 1909 and now automatic, stands at the end of a narrow strip of land that juts out into the sea between basalt cliffs. The lighthouse is not open to visitors, but the walk to it is the attraction.
The path starts from the car park at the end of the road, descends a concrete staircase with a handrail on a steep section and continues about 1.5 km to the lighthouse, roughly a 1-hour round trip. The return, uphill, is tiring. From the top of the cliff, to the right of the car park, a short trail leads to the most photographed viewpoint, with the lighthouse and the cliffs seen from above.
On the horizon appear the Hébridas Exteriores, the islands of North Uist and Harris, on the far side of the Minch. Dolphins, porpoises and occasionally minke whales and basking sharks pass through the strait in summer, and seabirds nest on the cliffs. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
The wind is often strong, and the cliffs have no barriers; stay on the paths.
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 to 1.5 hours to walk down to the lighthouse and back; 30 minutes just for the cliff viewpoint.
Best time
Late afternoon, to see the sunset behind the lighthouse, especially from May to August when the sun sets late. On very windy days, stick to the high viewpoint.
How to get there
It's at the end of a single-track road, about 35 km from Dunvegan and 70 km from Portree, over an hour by car. There are no buses. Combine it with Castelo de Dunvegan on the way.
Tip
For the lighthouse photo from above, follow the trail that leaves to the right of the car park up to the top of the cliff, instead of descending the stairs. Bring a windproof jacket even in summer.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Neist Point
Can you enter the Neist Point lighthouse?
No. The lighthouse is automatic and closed; the visit is the walk to it and the views.
Is the walk difficult?
The descent has a steep staircase with a handrail, and the return is uphill. It's about 3 km round trip.
Can you see whales?
Sometimes in summer dolphins, porpoises and minke whales pass through the strait. Their presence is not guaranteed.
What's the best time to go?
At sunset, behind the lighthouse, preferably between May and August.