An Leth-Allt View Point: Gateway to Skye’s Dramatic Gorge and Coastal Panorama
Experience Skye’s breathtaking Lealt Gorge and historic coastal views at An Leth-Allt View Point near Portree.
An Leth-Allt View Point, located near Portree on the Isle of Skye, offers breathtaking views over a deep gorge carved by the Lealt River as it cascades into the sea. Visitors can admire the rugged Trotternish Mountains, the shimmering waters of the Sound of Raasay, and explore historic ruins of salmon fishing and diatomite processing at the river mouth. This accessible viewpoint combines natural beauty with rich industrial heritage, making it a captivating stop on the Skye coastline.
A brief summary to An leth-allt view point
- Road End, Portree, IV51 9JL, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear if you plan to descend the steep path to the beach for closer views of the falls and ruins.
- Visit during clear weather for the best panoramic views across the Sound of Raasay and the Trotternish Mountains.
- Bring a camera or binoculars to capture the dramatic landscape and spot local wildlife.
- Read the onsite information boards to learn about the site’s industrial heritage and natural environment.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Parking
Getting There
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Car
From Portree, drive north along the A855 for approximately 13 miles; parking is available at the site. The journey takes around 25-30 minutes. Note that parking can be limited during peak seasons.
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Bus
Local bus services run from Portree to Staffin with stops near the A855; from there, a 20-minute walk on uneven terrain leads to the viewpoint. Bus frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance. Tickets cost approximately £5-£8.
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Walking
For active travelers, a scenic 2-hour hike from Portree to An Leth-Allt View Point follows marked trails with moderate elevation changes. Suitable footwear and weather preparedness are essential.
An leth-allt view point location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about An leth-allt view point
The Geological Drama of Lealt Gorge
An Leth-Allt View Point overlooks the spectacular Lealt Falls, where the River Lealt plunges dramatically through a gorge carved over millennia into the basalt and sandstone of the Trotternish Ridge. The river’s force has sculpted a deep chasm that opens onto a pebble beach meeting the sea, creating a natural spectacle of water and rock. From the wooden viewing platform, visitors can witness the layered cliffs and the lush vegetation clinging to the steep slopes, framed by the expansive backdrop of the Trotternish Mountains.Industrial Echoes at the River’s Mouth
Below the viewpoint lie the evocative ruins of a 19th-century diatomite factory and salmon fishermen’s huts, remnants of an industrious past. Diatomite, a mineral used in products from toothpaste to industrial filters, was mined inland and transported via a narrow railway to this coastal site for processing and shipping. The rusty chimney and crumbling buildings tell stories of a once-thriving local industry that operated until the mid-20th century, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the natural setting.Immersive Coastal and Mountain Views
The viewpoint offers panoramic vistas stretching across the Sound of Raasay to the Scottish mainland, with the shimmering waters contrasting against the rugged hills. The juxtaposition of sea and mountain creates a dynamic landscape that changes with the light and weather, from misty mornings to golden sunsets. Birdlife and the occasional glimpse of marine activity enrich the sensory experience, making it a favorite for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.Accessible Trails and Exploration Opportunities
A short, well-maintained path leads from the parking area to the viewing platform, suitable for most visitors. For those seeking adventure, a steeper zigzag trail descends to the beach below, allowing closer inspection of the falls, the ruins, and the shoreline. This descent requires sturdy footwear and a reasonable level of fitness but rewards with intimate encounters with the landscape and quieter moments away from the main viewpoint.Connection to Local Culture and Conservation
An Leth-Allt, meaning “divided stream” in Gaelic, reflects the cultural heritage embedded in the landscape. Interpretive signage near the site provides insights into the natural history and industrial past, fostering appreciation and responsible visitation. The area is managed to balance public access with conservation, emphasizing Leave No Trace principles to protect this fragile environment for future generations.Seasonal and Weather Considerations
The viewpoint is accessible year-round, though weather conditions can vary dramatically on Skye. Clear skies offer the best visibility for the sweeping views, while mist and rain add a mystical atmosphere. Visitors should prepare for changing conditions, especially if venturing down to the beach, where paths can be slippery. The site’s open nature means wind can be a factor, particularly in colder months.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Essential places to dine
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Scorrybreac Restaurant
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Cuchullin Restaurant
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The Caledonian Cafe
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Antlers Bar and Grill
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Tianavaig Restaurant
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Sea Breezes
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Gasta Port Righ
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Loch Bay Restaurant
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Gille Brighde Restaurant
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The Noost
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Old School Restaurant
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The Bistro at Atholl House Skye
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The Dunvegan, Isle of Skye
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
