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Fairy Pools Hike

By François · updated in June 202506/2025My rating

Key facts about the hike

Difficulty
Easy Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
Duration
3h15 Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
Distance
7.7km
Elevation gain
320m
Type of route
Loop
Maximum altitude
355 m
Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
No
Marked
No
Popularity
High
Region
Isle of Skye
Start point
57.25060, -6.27237
Activity
Hiking

Hike overview

The Fairy Pools hike on the Isle of Skye takes you to a series of crystal-clear pools and magnificent waterfalls along the Brittle River. Located at the foot of the imposing Black Cuillin peaks, these natural pools create a magnificent landscape.

Having become very popular in recent years, particularly thanks to social media, this hike now attracts hundreds of hikers every day during the high season.

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Fairy Pools Hike

Difficulties of the hike

The proposed route first takes you towards Am Mam (407 m), then along the walls of Bruach na Frithe, before reaching the highest point of the Fairy Pools. Although this route is not particularly spectacular, it has the advantage of being uncrowded!

The descent follows the classic trail, accompanied by the soothing sound of waterfalls. The hike is easy and presents no technical difficulties.

What you'll love

  • The spectacular backdrop of the Black Cuillin mountains, including the imposing walls of Bruach na Frithe overlooking the valley.
  • The succession of waterfalls and natural pools with turquoise waters, which offer great photo opportunities.

Practical information

Parking

There is a large paid car park at the trailhead (indicative price in 2025: £8 for cars and £10 for RVs). Restrooms are available on site.

Alternative

For a shorter route, simply follow the popular Fairy Pools trail there and back.

Visiting tip

To enjoy the site in optimal conditions and avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning (before 9 am) or late in the day. The light will also be more favourable for photography.

Black Cuillins
Black Cuillins
Fairy pools waterfalls in front of the magnificent Sgurr An Fheadain
Fairy pools waterfalls in front of the magnificent Sgurr An Fheadain
Fairy pools waterfalls in front of the magnificent Sgurr An Fheadain
Fairy pools waterfalls in front of the magnificent Sgurr An Fheadain
Fairy pools waterfalls in front of the magnificent Sgurr An Fheadain
Fairy pools waterfalls in front of the magnificent Sgurr An Fheadain
Fairy pools and Sgurr An Fheadain
Fairy pools and Sgurr An Fheadain
Fairy pools and Sgurr An Fheadain
Fairy pools and Sgurr An Fheadain
Fairy pools in front of the Cuillins range
Fairy pools in front of the Cuillins range
Fairy pools
Fairy pools
Fairy pools
Fairy pools
Fairy pools
Fairy pools waterfalls

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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/scotland/fairy-pools/