Sgùrr na Stri
The Sgùrr na Stri hike leads to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Scotland. Despite its modest elevation of 494 meters, this peak sits in a privileged position above Loch Coruisk and provides a 360-degree panorama of the entire Cuillin range.
The route begins in the village of Elgol on the south coast of the Isle of Skye with a boat ride to Loch Coruisk, followed by the ascent of Sgùrr na Stri, then a walk back along Loch Scavaig to Elgol.
Remarks
Access to the trailhead: Two main companies (Bella Jane and Misty Isle Boat Trips) operate services from the Elgol pier to Loch Coruisk from April to October, with departures approximately every hour. Indicative price for a one-way ticket in 2025: £22 per person. Reservations are strongly recommended, and crossings are subject to weather conditions.
Crossing the River Scavaig: Before setting off, check at the Elgol pier to see if the River Scavaig is fordable. If not, it is best to postpone the hike or choose another route.
Alternative: If you would prefer to avoid the difficult descent of the east face of Sgùrr na Stri, you can complete the hike as a round trip from Loch Coruisk. In this case, purchase a round-trip boat ticket and allow enough time on site (at least three hours).
Difficulties and description of the hike
The route is long and presents several technical difficulties. Fording the River Scavaig can be problematic after heavy rain. Check at the Elgol pier before departure to ensure that the crossing is possible.
The trail is clearly visible at the start from Loch Coruisk, but gradually becomes less distinct and rockier as you progress toward the summit. The descent to the beach east of Sgùrr na Stri is the most difficult part of the circuit. Off-trail and very steep, it requires mountain experience to choose the least difficult route. I strongly recommend following the GPS track for this section.
After this descent, the return to Elgol along Loch Scavaig is a long walk of about 6 km on sometimes exposed coastal terrain with a few vertiginous passages to negotiate.
What you'll love
- The exceptional panorama from the summit: the view encompasses the entire Black Cuillin range surrounding Loch Coruisk. Beyond that, you can see the islands of Eigg, Rum, and Mull.
- The boat trip from Elgol: this 45-minute crossing of Loch Scavaig is a spectacular approach to the Isle of Skye, with opportunities to spot seals and seabirds.
- The wild atmosphere of Loch Coruisk and the route in general, far from the usual tourist trails on the Isle of Skye.
Hike technical sheet
➡️ Hiking parameters
➡️ Hiking parameters
➡️ Hiking parameters
REMARKS
Access to the trailhead: Two main companies (Bella Jane and Misty Isle Boat Trips) operate services from the Elgol pier to Loch Coruisk from April to October, with departures approximately every hour. Indicative price for a one-way ticket in 2025: £22 per person. Reservations are strongly recommended, and crossings are subject to weather conditions.
Crossing the River Scavaig: Before setting off, check at the Elgol pier to see if the River Scavaig is fordable. If not, it is best to postpone the hike or choose another route.
Alternative: If you would prefer to avoid the difficult descent of the east face of Sgùrr na Stri, you can complete the hike as a round trip from Loch Coruisk. In this case, purchase a round-trip boat ticket and allow enough time on site (at least three hours).
Difficulties and description of the hike
The route is long and presents several technical difficulties. Fording the River Scavaig can be problematic after heavy rain. Check at the Elgol pier before departure to ensure that the crossing is possible.
The trail is clearly visible at the start from Loch Coruisk, but gradually becomes less distinct and rockier as you progress toward the summit. The descent to the beach east of Sgùrr na Stri is the most difficult part of the circuit. Off-trail and very steep, it requires mountain experience to choose the least difficult route. I strongly recommend following the GPS track for this section.
After this descent, the return to Elgol along Loch Scavaig is a long walk of about 6 km on sometimes exposed coastal terrain with a few vertiginous passages to negotiate.
What you'll love
- The exceptional panorama from the summit: the view encompasses the entire Black Cuillin range surrounding Loch Coruisk. Beyond that, you can see the islands of Eigg, Rum, and Mull.
- The boat trip from Elgol: this 45-minute crossing of Loch Scavaig is a spectacular approach to the Isle of Skye, with opportunities to spot seals and seabirds.
- The wild atmosphere of Loch Coruisk and the route in general, far from the usual tourist trails on the Isle of Skye.
Slideshow
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