Leitir Fura Woodland
A tranquil woodland walk through Skye's hidden forest, where nature has reclaimed a lost Highland settlement.
Leitir Fura Woodland is a serene forest walk in Sleat, Isle of Skye, nestled in the Scottish Hebrides. This peaceful woodland trail winds through native trees and offers a gentle escape into nature, perfect for those seeking a quieter alternative to Skye's more dramatic mountain landscapes. The walk is accessible year-round and provides an intimate connection with the island's natural heritage, making it an ideal spot for families, casual walkers, and nature lovers seeking tranquility.
A brief summary to Leitir Fura
- Sleat Isle of Skye, Isle of Skye, iv44, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear waterproof boots and bring rain gear; the woodland floor is often muddy and wet, particularly after rainfall or during autumn and winter months.
- Visit early in the day to maximize chances of spotting woodland wildlife, including red squirrels and native birds, which are most active in morning hours.
- Combine your visit with nearby Sleat attractions such as Torabhaig Distillery or Isleornsay village to make a full day of exploration in this quieter corner of Skye.
- Allow extra time if visiting in winter; shorter daylight hours mean you'll want to start your walk earlier to ensure you finish before dusk.
- Bring binoculars and a field guide to identify woodland birds and plants; the forest's biodiversity rewards close observation and patient watching.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car from Armadale
Drive north from Armadale village toward Sleat's interior, following local signage toward Leitir Fura Woodland. The journey takes approximately 8–12 minutes depending on exact starting point. Parking is available at or near the woodland entrance. This is the most straightforward approach for visitors arriving via the Armadale–Mallaig ferry or staying in southern Skye. Road conditions are generally good, though winter weather may occasionally affect access.
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Car from Portree
From Portree, drive south through the island's interior via the A87 and A851, a journey of approximately 45–55 minutes covering roughly 40 kilometers. Follow signs toward Sleat and Armadale, then navigate to Leitir Fura Woodland using local directions. This route is suitable for visitors based in central or northern Skye. Roads are well-maintained, though mountain passes may be affected by winter conditions.
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Walking from Isleornsay
Leitir Fura Woodland is accessible on foot from the nearby village of Isleornsay, approximately 2–3 kilometers away. The walk takes 30–45 minutes depending on pace and terrain. This option suits visitors staying in Isleornsay or those seeking to combine the woodland walk with exploration of the village and its attractions. The route follows local paths and minor roads; terrain is mixed but generally manageable for walkers of moderate fitness.
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Minibus or guided tour from Portree
Several local tour operators offer guided excursions from Portree and other settlements, including stops at Leitir Fura Woodland as part of broader Skye itineraries. Journey times and pricing vary by operator; typical tours depart in morning or early afternoon and include multiple stops. This option suits visitors without personal transport or those preferring guided interpretation of the woodland and surrounding region.
Leitir Fura location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Leitir Fura
A Woodland Refuge in Sleat's Quiet Corner
Leitir Fura Woodland represents one of the Isle of Skye's gentler natural attractions, offering visitors a chance to experience the island's verdant landscapes without the demanding terrain of its famous mountain ranges. Located in Sleat, the southernmost peninsula of Skye, this woodland walk provides a peaceful retreat through native Scottish forest. The trail meanders through mature trees, creating a canopy that shelters walkers from the elements and immerses them in the quiet rhythms of woodland life. Unlike the dramatic peaks and exposed moorlands that dominate much of Skye's reputation, Leitir Fura offers an intimate, contemplative experience where the focus shifts to smaller details: the texture of bark, the calls of woodland birds, and the soft forest floor beneath your feet.The Echoes of a Lost Settlement
Beneath the trees and undergrowth of Leitir Fura lies a poignant chapter of Highland history. The woodland occupies the site of a once-thriving settlement where fourteen houses stood around a great oak tree. This lost village represents the broader story of Highland depopulation, when communities were displaced during the Clearances and subsequent economic changes. Walking through Leitir Fura today, you are treading ground that once rang with the voices of families, the sounds of daily life, and the bustle of a functioning community. The woodland has reclaimed what was once cleared land, and nature has woven its own narrative over the abandoned settlement. This layering of human history and natural recovery makes Leitir Fura a place of quiet reflection, where the passage of time becomes almost tangible.Seasonal Rhythms and Weather Considerations
The woodland experience at Leitir Fura shifts subtly with the seasons. Spring brings fresh growth and the emergence of woodland flowers, while summer offers long daylight hours and the fullest canopy cover. Autumn transforms the forest into shades of gold and amber, and winter reveals the skeletal structure of the trees, opening sightlines and creating a more austere beauty. The Scottish climate means the woodland can be wet and muddy, particularly in autumn and winter, but this adds to the authentic Highland experience. The shelter provided by the trees makes Leitir Fura more accessible during inclement weather than exposed moorland walks, though sturdy footwear is essential year-round.Integration with Sleat's Broader Landscape
Leitir Fura sits within Sleat, a region known for its relative gentleness compared to other parts of Skye. The peninsula combines woodland walks, coastal views, and cultural attractions including distilleries and heritage sites. The proximity to villages like Isleornsay and Armadale means that Leitir Fura functions well as part of a broader exploration of southern Skye. Many visitors combine the woodland walk with visits to nearby attractions, making it a natural waypoint in a day's itinerary. The accessibility of the location—just a short drive from accommodation and other amenities—makes it particularly appealing to those with limited mobility or those seeking a less strenuous outing.Flora, Fauna, and Forest Ecology
The woodland at Leitir Fura supports a variety of native Scottish trees and the wildlife that depends on them. Visitors may encounter red squirrels, woodland birds, and, if fortunate, glimpses of deer. The forest floor hosts mosses, ferns, and fungi that thrive in the damp Highland climate. The ecological value of the woodland extends beyond its immediate boundaries; it forms part of Skye's broader network of natural habitats. Walking through Leitir Fura offers an opportunity to observe how Scottish woodlands function as living systems, where every element—from the tallest tree to the smallest insect—plays a role in maintaining the forest's health and character.A Contemplative Counterpoint to Skye's Drama
While Skye is famous for its dramatic landscapes—the jagged Cuillins, the towering cliffs of Trotternish, the windswept moorlands—Leitir Fura offers something different. It is a place for slowing down, for listening, for noticing the subtle rather than the spectacular. For many visitors, this woodland walk provides a necessary balance to the more intense experiences available elsewhere on the island. It is a place where solitude is easily found, where the pace of exploration can be entirely self-determined, and where the rewards come not from conquering a summit but from simply being present in a living forest.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
8.5 km
Historic 19th-century octagonal lighthouse overlooking the narrow Kyle Rhea strait, offering stunning coastal views and maritime heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Eilean Donan Castle
17.9 km
Discover Scotland’s most iconic castle set on a tranquil island where history, nature, and legend converge in breathtaking Highland scenery.
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
42.5 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Iron age broch
51.5 km
Explore a uniquely Scottish Iron Age broch perched above Portree, revealing ancient stone craftsmanship and commanding views of Skye’s dramatic landscape.
Official end of the West Highland Way
55.9 km
Celebrate the end of Scotland’s iconic West Highland Way in Fort William, where rugged mountains meet vibrant Highland culture.
Dun Osdale
57.5 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Bridge of Oich
61.6 km
Victorian engineering marvel: a rare surviving taper-principle suspension bridge from 1854.
Old Ruins
64.1 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Tobermory Clock Tower
64.6 km
Historic granite clock tower memorializing local heritage, standing proudly by Tobermory’s colourful harbour on the Isle of Mull.
Loch Ness View Point Fort Augustus
65.2 km
Experience the enchanting vistas of Loch Ness at Fort Augustus View Point, where nature's beauty and local charm converge in the Scottish Highlands.
Fort Augustus Lighthouse
65.2 km
Discover the charming Pepperpot Lighthouse, a tiny historic beacon marking the entrance to the Caledonian Canal at Loch Ness in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Steall Waterfall
65.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Steall Waterfall, a natural wonder in the Scottish Highlands, perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Tigh-na-sleubhaich
65.4 km
Iconic Highland ruin nestled in a remote valley, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland’s crofting heritage on the West Highland Way.
Loch Ness South shore
65.5 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich folklore of Loch Ness South Shore, a must-visit scenic point in the Scottish Highlands.
Allt na Criche
65.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Allt na Criche, a scenic point near Fort Augustus, where nature's tranquility awaits in the heart of the Highlands.
Unmissable attractions to see
Otter Hide
7.6 km
Discover peaceful coastal wildlife watching at Otter Hide, a serene spot to glimpse otters and seals on the Isle of Skye’s rugged shore.
Caisteal Maol
10.8 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Caisteal Maol, a Norse-linked 15th-century castle commanding the Kyleakin strait on the Isle of Skye.
Teko (the otter)sculpture by Laurence Broderick
10.8 km
A charming bronze otter sculpture by Laurence Broderick celebrating Skye’s wildlife heritage in the tranquil village of Kyleakin.
Strath Suardale Chambered Cairn
12.1 km
Explore the ancient Neolithic Strath Suardale Chambered Cairn, a timeless stone tomb nestled in the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the Isle of Skye.
Loch Cill Chriosd
12.7 km
A tranquil freshwater loch cradled in Skye's sacred valley, where golden reeds meet dramatic mountains.
Dunscaith Castle
14.1 km
Explore the legendary Fortress of Shadows, Dunscaith Castle, where myth and medieval history meet on the wild Isle of Skye coast.
Viewpoint
14.2 km
Serene coastal vistas and castle ruins amid Skye's verdant southern gardens
Armadale Castle, Gardens & Museum
14.4 km
Discover the romantic ruins, enchanting gardens, and rich heritage of Clan Donald at Armadale Castle on the Isle of Skye.
Highland cow tours
16.3 km
Discover the charm of Scotland’s iconic Highland cows up close in a serene crofting landscape near Kyle of Lochalsh.
Torrin Pools
16.8 km
Discover the serene Torrin Pools, a tranquil wild swimming spot with stunning waterfalls and mountain views on the Isle of Skye.
Dun Ringill
16.9 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.
Ben Na Cro
18.1 km
A quiet Red Cuillin peak offering straightforward hillwalking, panoramic views, and genuine Highland solitude.
Spar Cave
19.5 km
Discover Spar Cave’s dazzling calcite formations and legendary tales on Skye’s rugged coast, accessible only at low tide for the adventurous.
View point LOCH AINORT
20.5 km
Discover breathtaking views of Loch Ainort and the Red Cuillin Mountains from this serene Isle of Skye viewpoint.
Camas Daraich, Aird of Sleat, Skye
22.9 km
Discover the tranquil white sands and turquoise waters of Camas Daraich, a secluded beach gem at Skye’s southern tip.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant at the Duisdale
3.7 km
Elegant dining on Skye’s southeast coast offering fresh local fare with stunning Sound of Sleat views in a nautical-chic setting.
Red Skye Restaurant
8.8 km
Authentic Scottish flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy, rustic setting on the stunning Isle of Skye.
Taste of India, Kyleakin
10.4 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with fresh flavors and warm hospitality in the scenic village of Kyleakin on the Isle of Skye.
The Legend of Saucy Mary Restaurant
10.6 km
Charming British dining with panoramic Skye Bridge views in Kyleakin’s historic heart, blending local flavors and cozy ambiance.
Castle Moil Restaurant
10.7 km
Waterside Scottish dining with fresh seafood, warm hospitality, and views of the iconic Skye Bridge.
Claymore Restaurant
10.8 km
Cozy seafood dining with fresh local catches and warm hospitality in Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming coastal village.
The Shellfish Shack
10.8 km
Fresh, locally caught shellfish served with friendly smiles in a charming coastal shack on the Isle of Skye.
Cafe Sia & Siaway
12.1 km
Charming island café serving fresh pizzas and quality coffee in a relaxed, friendly setting on the Isle of Skye.
The Shed
15.2 km
Enjoy hearty, fresh seafood and iconic fish and chips in a relaxed setting on the scenic Isle of Skye’s A851 route.
North Harbour Bistro and Tearoom
16.1 km
Exceptional seafood dining with stunning harbour views on the tranquil Isle of Scalpay, blending local flavors and warm hospitality.
The Clachan
18.3 km
Experience authentic Highland hospitality with traditional Scottish fare, local ales, and lively music in the heart of Dornie village.
The Chlachain Inn
19.7 km
Authentic Scottish inn and seafood restaurant offering warm hospitality and cozy rooms in the heart of Mallaig’s fishing village.
The Noost
26.2 km
Charming waterside takeaway café in Sconser offering superb coffee, homemade cakes, and scenic outdoor seating by the Raasay ferry terminal.
Seumas' Bar
28.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at Seumas' Bar on the Isle of Skye—where local flavors meet stunning views.
Lochcarron Bistro - Restaurant & Gift Shop
29.4 km
Intimate Scottish Highlands bistro with seasonal menus, local flavors, and scenic loch views, plus a charming gift shop.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Floraidh Skye
4.4 km
Discover exquisite Scottish textiles and local crafts in a charming pier-side boutique on the scenic Isle of Skye.
scottishquality.com
4.5 km
Explore the enchanting Isle of Skye gift shop, where local crafts and unique treasures await to tell the story of Scotland's rich heritage.
Skye Smithy
8.8 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.
The Kraft Kabin Skye
9.4 km
Discover the creativity of local artisans at The Kraft Kabin Skye, a charming craft shop in Breakish offering unique handmade treasures.
The Skye Gift Company
11.5 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
11.5 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
11.5 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique local artistry at Nook & Cranny, Broadford’s cozy gift shop on the Isle of Skye.
Skye Antiques
11.5 km
Explore timeless antiques and local heritage treasures in the cozy charm of Skye Antiques, Broadford’s beloved collectible shop.
The Blue Skye gift co.
11.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and enjoy great coffee in the heart of Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming local treasure.
Buzy Vee
11.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and quality sewing supplies in Broadford’s welcoming Buzy Vee gift shop.
Isle of Skye Leather Co.
15.1 km
Discover exquisite handmade Scottish leather goods crafted with centuries-old tradition on the Isle of Skye.
Jazz Buchanan Creations
21.0 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
36.0 km
Discover authentic Highland scents and handmade gifts at Isle of Skye Aromatics in charming Carbost.
Isle of Skye Crafts @ Over the Rainbow
37.0 km
Discover authentic Isle of Skye crafts and unique handmade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant harbour town.
Cuillin Crafts
37.1 km
Authentic island craftsmanship and locally made treasures in the heart of Portree.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Am Praban
4.5 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
10.7 km
A lively Scottish pub in Kyleakin offering fresh seafood, malt whiskies, live traditional music, and stunning views of the Skye Bridge.
Gabbro Bar
11.8 km
A cozy, dog-friendly local pub in Broadford serving Skye-inspired drinks, hearty snacks, and lively entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.
Macnamara & Bothin Bar
16.0 km
A cozy bar in Ardvasar offering local whiskies, stunning Isle of Skye views, and warm Scottish hospitality in a rustic setting.
Rockvilla Hotel, Rooms, Restaurant & Bar - Lochcarron - NC500 Route
29.8 km
Charming Highland guest house with stunning loch views, excellent local cuisine, and warm hospitality on the NC500 route.
The Auld Bridge Inn
34.7 km
A cozy Highland bar on Skye offering local drinks and scenic views, perfect for relaxing after exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.
The Bar at Scorrybreac
37.0 km
An intimate cocktail and whisky bar with stunning Portree Harbour views, blending classic recipes with Hebridean flavors on the Isle of Skye.
An Talla Mòr Eighteen Twenty
37.0 km
Historic church-turned-pub in Portree offering local ales, live music, and authentic Scottish hospitality in a charming, lively setting.
Merchant Bar
37.1 km
Experience authentic Isle of Skye hospitality with local ales, fine whiskies, and hearty Highland fare in the cozy Merchant Bar of Portree.
West Highlands Bar
37.1 km
Cozy Highland pub in Portree offering local whiskies, Isle of Skye brews, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
The Isles Inn
37.2 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.
The Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse
38.5 km
Charming Scottish inn with stunning Loch Harport views, local cuisine, live traditional music, and cozy accommodation on the Isle of Skye.
Nanny's
38.6 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
Beinn Bar
41.3 km
Cozy up with Scotland’s finest whiskies, ales, and gins in a historic Highland bar nestled within The Torridon estate.
The Badachro Inn
58.0 km
Coastal Highland inn renowned for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and warm, rustic charm in the heart of Badachro.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skye Camanachd Social Club
38.0 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
Roobarb
55.8 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
75.5 km
Discover the Isle of Mull Rugby Club: A vibrant community hub where sports and local culture come together amidst stunning Scottish scenery.
The Ross Shire Club
92.0 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
Number 5
96.5 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
Market Bar
97.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Market Bar in Inverness, where live music and local brews create the perfect Scottish pub experience.
Lauders
97.7 km
Experience the lively spirit of Inverness at Lauders, where great food, drinks, and live music create unforgettable moments.
MacCallums Bar
97.7 km
Discover the heart of Inverness at MacCallums Bar, your go-to spot for drinks, live music, and a cozy atmosphere.
Private Eyes Inverness
97.7 km
Experience Inverness’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, where stylish decor meets great music and a welcoming party atmosphere.
The Exchange
97.8 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality at The Exchange, a charming pub in the heart of Inverness with a vibrant atmosphere and local brews.
The Tooth & Claw
97.8 km
Experience the vibrant live music scene at The Tooth & Claw, a premier bar in Inverness, where great drinks meet unforgettable performances.
The Imperial
97.8 km
Discover The Imperial, a lively sports bar in Inverness offering cocktails, pub fare, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for game days.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Zen
- Scenic
- Nature Escape
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Nature Reserve
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
