Coire Lagan: The Majestic Corrie of the Cuillin on Isle of Skye
Discover Coire Lagan, a breathtaking glacial corrie nestled in the heart of the Cuillin mountains on the Isle of Skye, where rugged peaks embrace a tranquil lochan.
Coire Lagan is a stunning glacial corrie nestled in the heart of the Cuillin mountain range on the Isle of Skye. This small lochan is surrounded by towering, dramatic peaks, offering a breathtaking and atmospheric setting for hikers and climbers. Accessible via a scenic but moderately challenging walk from Glen Brittle, Coire Lagan is a must-visit for nature lovers seeking rugged beauty and mountain adventure.
A brief summary to Coire Lagan, Isle of Skye
- Unnamed Road, Isle of Skye, IV47 8TA, GB
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and be prepared for some minor scrambling near the corrie’s edge.
- Start your walk from Glen Brittle for the most accessible route to Coire Lagan.
- Check weather conditions before your visit, as the terrain can be challenging in wet or windy weather.
- Bring a camera to capture the dramatic mountain scenery and the serene lochan.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Drive from Portree or Broadford to Glen Brittle, which takes approximately 40 to 60 minutes. Parking is available near Glen Brittle beach, but spaces can be limited during peak seasons. No parking fees apply.
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Bus and Walk
Take a local bus from Portree to Glen Brittle, which runs a few times daily and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. From Glen Brittle, the walk to Coire Lagan is approximately 3 to 4 km over moderate terrain, requiring 1 to 1.5 hours.
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Walking
Hikers staying nearby can access Coire Lagan via trails from Glen Brittle campsite or surrounding paths. The walk involves some rough terrain and minor scrambling, suitable for experienced walkers and takes around 2 to 3 hours round trip.
Coire Lagan, Isle of Skye location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Coire Lagan, Isle of Skye
A Natural Amphitheatre Sculpted by Ice
Coire Lagan is a classic example of a corrie, or cirque, formed by glacial erosion during the last Ice Age. This bowl-shaped hollow cradles a small lochan, creating a striking natural amphitheatre surrounded by sheer cliffs and jagged peaks of the Black Cuillin. The steep rock faces rise dramatically around the lochan, evoking a sense of wildness and isolation that captures the imagination. The geological features here tell a story of ancient ice and powerful natural forces shaping the landscape.The Gateway to the Black Cuillin Mountains
Situated within the Cuillin range, Coire Lagan serves as a key access point for serious scramblers and climbers aiming to explore the challenging ridges and summits of the Black Cuillin. The area is renowned for its rugged terrain and demanding routes, making it a revered destination for experienced mountaineers. Even for walkers, the approach to Coire Lagan involves a mixture of well-maintained paths and sections requiring minor scrambling, offering a taste of the wild mountain environment.Walking Experience and Scenic Highlights
The journey to Coire Lagan typically begins at Glen Brittle, where a clear path leads through varied terrain, gradually becoming rougher as you near the corrie. Along the way, hikers are treated to panoramic views of surrounding hills, lochs, and distant islands such as Eigg, Muck, Rum, and Canna. The walk, usually taking 2 to 3 hours round trip, rewards visitors with the eerie beauty of the lochan set against the towering Black Cuillin peaks and the soothing sound of the nearby Allt Coire Lagan waterfall.Atmosphere and Visitor Appeal
The atmosphere at Coire Lagan is one of serene grandeur mixed with a palpable sense of adventure. The secluded lochan, encircled by imposing cliffs, offers a peaceful spot to rest and absorb the dramatic scenery. The area’s raw natural beauty and the challenge of the terrain attract outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate solitude and the thrill of mountain landscapes. The place is particularly memorable for those who enjoy combining hiking with light scrambling and photography.Environmental and Seasonal Considerations
Coire Lagan is an outdoor location exposed to the elements, with weather conditions that can change rapidly. It is best visited in mild and clear weather to fully appreciate the views and ensure safety on rougher paths and scrambling sections. The site is part of a protected mountain environment, emphasizing the importance of respecting nature and practicing Leave No Trace principles to preserve its pristine condition.Local Significance and Cultural Context
Beyond its natural allure, Coire Lagan holds a special place in the cultural heritage of the Isle of Skye as part of the iconic Cuillin range. These mountains have inspired generations of climbers and walkers, contributing to Skye’s reputation as a premier destination for mountain adventure in Scotland. The corrie’s dramatic landscape embodies the island’s rugged spirit and timeless connection between land and legend.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
27.1 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Iron age broch
27.3 km
Explore a uniquely Scottish Iron Age broch perched above Portree, revealing ancient stone craftsmanship and commanding views of Skye’s dramatic landscape.
Dun Osdale
32.5 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
34.4 km
Historic 19th-century octagonal lighthouse overlooking the narrow Kyle Rhea strait, offering stunning coastal views and maritime heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Neist Point Lighthouse
41.1 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
Eilean Donan Castle
43.8 km
Discover Scotland’s most iconic castle set on a tranquil island where history, nature, and legend converge in breathtaking Highland scenery.
Ardmore Arches
45.4 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
47.3 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Old Ruins
52.8 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Tobermory Clock Tower
65.8 km
Historic granite clock tower memorializing local heritage, standing proudly by Tobermory’s colourful harbour on the Isle of Mull.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
76.2 km
A historic white lighthouse on the wild northern tip of the Isle of Scalpay, offering sweeping sea views and a taste of remote Hebridean life.
Sound of Harris
80.2 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Caolas Gallery Harris Hebrides Photos
80.3 km
Discover the artistic heart of the Isle of Harris at Caolas Gallery, where stunning photography and local cuisine blend in a scenic setting.
Official end of the West Highland Way
80.5 km
Celebrate the end of Scotland’s iconic West Highland Way in Fort William, where rugged mountains meet vibrant Highland culture.
Hebrides People Visitor Centre
81.7 km
Explore the rich heritage of the Isle of Harris at the Hebrides People Visitor Centre, where history, genealogy, and local literature come alive.
Unmissable attractions to see
Glenbrittle
3.4 km
Glenbrittle offers rugged mountain beauty and tranquil coastal charm at the foot of Skye’s iconic Cuillin Ridge.
Glen Brittle Waterfalls
3.6 km
Turquoise pools and dramatic cascades beneath the Black Cuillin—Scotland's most enchanting mountain waterfalls.
Fairy Pools
5.0 km
Discover the magical waterfalls and crystal-clear pools of Skye’s Fairy Pools, set beneath the dramatic Black Cuillin mountains.
Bruach Na Frithe junction cairn
7.0 km
Serene gateway to the Black Cuillin’s rugged peaks, offering accessible hiking and breathtaking Highland panoramas.
Picnic bench
7.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Isle of Skye at the Picnic Bench, an idyllic spot for relaxation and breathtaking views.
Sligachan Old Bridge
9.9 km
Historic 19th-century stone bridge with stunning Cuillin mountain views and legendary enchanted waters on the Isle of Skye.
Allt Dubh View Point
11.3 km
Discover breathtaking mountain and river views framed by a historic stone bridge at Allt Dubh View Point on the Isle of Skye.
Carbost Burn Waterfall
12.3 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Carbost Burn Waterfall, a serene and accessible natural cascade on the Isle of Skye.
Dun Ringill
12.3 km
Explore Dun Ringill, an ancient Iron Age broch and medieval clan seat perched on Skye’s rugged coastline with stunning sea views and rich history.
Spar Cave
12.4 km
Discover Spar Cave’s dazzling calcite formations and legendary tales on Skye’s rugged coast, accessible only at low tide for the adventurous.
Lou Lou Designs on Skye
12.6 km
Discover unique, handmade Harris Tweed handbags and accessories crafted with passion on the Isle of Skye’s scenic Carbostbeg.
Torrin Pools
12.7 km
Discover the serene Torrin Pools, a tranquil wild swimming spot with stunning waterfalls and mountain views on the Isle of Skye.
Ben Na Cro
12.9 km
A quiet Red Cuillin peak offering straightforward hillwalking, panoramic views, and genuine Highland solitude.
View point LOCH AINORT
14.4 km
Discover breathtaking views of Loch Ainort and the Red Cuillin Mountains from this serene Isle of Skye viewpoint.
Heath Falls
14.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Heath Falls, a hidden waterfall nestled in the wild landscapes of the Isle of Skye.
Essential places to dine
Seumas' Bar
9.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at Seumas' Bar on the Isle of Skye—where local flavors meet stunning views.
The Noost
13.9 km
Charming waterside takeaway café in Sconser offering superb coffee, homemade cakes, and scenic outdoor seating by the Raasay ferry terminal.
Cafe Sia & Siaway
19.6 km
Charming island café serving fresh pizzas and quality coffee in a relaxed, friendly setting on the Isle of Skye.
North Harbour Bistro and Tearoom
19.8 km
Exceptional seafood dining with stunning harbour views on the tranquil Isle of Scalpay, blending local flavors and warm hospitality.
The Shellfish Shack
20.7 km
Fresh, locally caught shellfish served with friendly smiles in a charming coastal shack on the Isle of Skye.
Claymore Restaurant
20.7 km
Cozy seafood dining with fresh local catches and warm hospitality in Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming coastal village.
Gasta Port Righ
21.7 km
A vibrant pizzeria and artisan candle hub blending local flavors, crafts, and culture in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
Sea Breezes
22.8 km
Intimate harbourfront seafood restaurant showcasing Skye's finest local catches with contemporary technique
Tianavaig Restaurant
22.9 km
A friendly, casual restaurant in Portree serving classic Scottish dishes with fresh local ingredients and warm hospitality.
Antlers Bar and Grill
23.0 km
A welcoming Highland pub and grill in Portree, serving fresh local seafood, Highland beef, and inclusive menus with lively live music.
The Caledonian Cafe
23.0 km
Cozy cafe in Portree offering hearty local breakfast and lunch with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere on the Isle of Skye.
Cuchullin Restaurant
23.0 km
Experience the freshest Scottish seafood in the heart of Portree’s lively Somerled Square at Cuchullin Restaurant.
Scorrybreac Restaurant
23.0 km
Elegant small plates and innovative Scottish cuisine with a French twist, set above Portree harbour on the scenic Isle of Skye.
The View Restaurant
23.4 km
Savor exquisite Scottish cuisine with breathtaking harbor views at The View Restaurant, Portree’s premier dining destination on the Isle of Skye.
Red Skye Restaurant
23.7 km
Authentic Scottish flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy, rustic setting on the stunning Isle of Skye.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jazz Buchanan Creations
10.3 km
Discover stylish Scottish art and unique gifts inspired by the Isle of Skye’s stunning landscapes at Jazz Buchanan Creations in Elgol.
Isle of Skye Aromatics
11.4 km
Discover authentic Highland scents and handmade gifts at Isle of Skye Aromatics in charming Carbost.
Carbost Community Shop
12.6 km
A welcoming community-run shop offering local and vegan delights in the heart of Carbost, Isle of Skye’s charming village life.
Anna Eastwood Jewellery
17.4 km
Discover handcrafted jewellery inspired by the rugged beauty and heritage of the Isle of Skye at Anna Eastwood Jewellery in Fiscavaig.
Buzy Vee
19.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and quality sewing supplies in Broadford’s welcoming Buzy Vee gift shop.
The Blue Skye gift co.
20.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and enjoy great coffee in the heart of Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming local treasure.
Skye Antiques
20.1 km
Explore timeless antiques and local heritage treasures in the cozy charm of Skye Antiques, Broadford’s beloved collectible shop.
The Skye Gift Company
20.1 km
A charming independent gift shop in Broadford, showcasing the best of Skye’s crafts, food and souvenirs in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
The Treasure Hut
20.1 km
Discover unique gemstones, fossils, and handcrafted treasures at The Treasure Hut in Broadford Market Square, Isle of Skye’s premier gift shop.
Nook & Cranny
20.1 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique local artistry at Nook & Cranny, Broadford’s cozy gift shop on the Isle of Skye.
Skye Smithy
22.1 km
Discover authentic local craftsmanship and unique gifts at Skye Smithy, a charming artisan shop nestled in the tranquil beauty of the Isle of Skye.
Skye Batiks
22.9 km
Discover vibrant Celtic batiks and handloomed textiles crafted with passion in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
Home in the Highlands Portree
22.9 km
Discover authentic Highland crafts and souvenirs at Home in the Highlands Portree, a cozy gift shop nestled in the heart of Isle of Skye’s vibrant town center.
Isle of Skye Crafts @ Over the Rainbow
22.9 km
Discover authentic Isle of Skye crafts and unique handmade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant harbour town.
Tippecanoe
23.0 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and fair-trade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant main street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse
12.7 km
Charming Scottish inn with stunning Loch Harport views, local cuisine, live traditional music, and cozy accommodation on the Isle of Skye.
The Auld Bridge Inn
19.3 km
A cozy Highland bar on Skye offering local drinks and scenic views, perfect for relaxing after exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.
Gabbro Bar
19.7 km
A cozy, dog-friendly local pub in Broadford serving Skye-inspired drinks, hearty snacks, and lively entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.
An Talla Mòr Eighteen Twenty
22.9 km
Historic church-turned-pub in Portree offering local ales, live music, and authentic Scottish hospitality in a charming, lively setting.
West Highlands Bar
23.0 km
Cozy Highland pub in Portree offering local whiskies, Isle of Skye brews, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
Merchant Bar
23.0 km
Experience authentic Isle of Skye hospitality with local ales, fine whiskies, and hearty Highland fare in the cozy Merchant Bar of Portree.
The Bar at Scorrybreac
23.0 km
An intimate cocktail and whisky bar with stunning Portree Harbour views, blending classic recipes with Hebridean flavors on the Isle of Skye.
The Isles Inn
23.0 km
A lively traditional pub and cozy inn in Portree, offering hearty Scottish fare, live folk music, and comfortable rooms in the heart of Isle of Skye.
Macnamara & Bothin Bar
25.7 km
A cozy bar in Ardvasar offering local whiskies, stunning Isle of Skye views, and warm Scottish hospitality in a rustic setting.
Bar Am Praban
27.0 km
Cozy up with hearty Highland fare and fresh seafood in a welcoming pub setting on the scenic Isle of Skye.
The King Haakon Bar
31.2 km
A lively Scottish pub in Kyleakin offering fresh seafood, malt whiskies, live traditional music, and stunning views of the Skye Bridge.
The Stein Inn
39.8 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
The Ferry Inn
43.3 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
Nanny's
49.3 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
Rockvilla Hotel, Rooms, Restaurant & Bar - Lochcarron - NC500 Route
49.9 km
Charming Highland guest house with stunning loch views, excellent local cuisine, and warm hospitality on the NC500 route.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skye Camanachd Social Club
22.9 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
Number 5
78.6 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
Roobarb
80.5 km
Experience Fort William’s vibrant nightlife at Roobarb, the welcoming nightclub where music and dancing light up weekend nights.
Isle of Mull Rugby Club
83.4 km
Discover the Isle of Mull Rugby Club: A vibrant community hub where sports and local culture come together amidst stunning Scottish scenery.
The Isle of Harris Golf Club
84.4 km
Discover the beauty of The Isle of Harris Golf Club, where stunning landscapes meet unforgettable golfing experiences in the heart of the Hebrides.
The Scaladale Centre
93.1 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Tranquil
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
