Neist Point Cliff Lighthouse Viewpoint on Isle of Skye
Experience breathtaking cliff views and iconic sunsets at Neist Point Lighthouse, the dramatic westernmost tip of the Isle of Skye.
Neist Point Lighthouse, perched on the most westerly tip of the Isle of Skye, offers breathtaking cliffside views and dramatic coastal scenery. Built in 1909, this iconic lighthouse is accessible via a steep concrete path from a free car park. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of rugged cliffs, sea stacks, and the Atlantic Ocean, with spectacular sunsets enhancing the experience. The site is renowned for wildlife spotting, including whales and seabirds, making it a must-visit natural landmark.
A brief summary to Neist Point Cliff Lighthouse Viewpoint
- Skye, Isle of Skye, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 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
- Arrive early during peak season to secure free parking, as the lot fills quickly.
- Wear sturdy footwear for the steep and sometimes boggy concrete path to the lighthouse.
- Bring water and snacks since there are no facilities like toilets or cafés onsite.
- Visit near sunset for spectacular lighting and photographic opportunities.
- Keep dogs on a short lead due to sheep grazing in the area.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Parking
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Portree, expect a scenic 1-hour journey along single-track roads with passing places. The route covers approximately 31 miles and includes narrow, winding sections. Parking at Neist Point is free but limited, so plan to arrive early during busy periods.
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Guided Tour
Join a guided tour from Portree or Dunvegan that includes Neist Point Lighthouse. Tours typically last 4 to 6 hours and provide transportation along the challenging roads, offering commentary and stops at key viewpoints.
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Walking
From the free car park at Neist Point, the concrete path to the lighthouse is about 1.3 km each way, taking 20 to 30 minutes downhill. The return involves a steep climb, requiring moderate fitness. The path can be slippery when wet.
Neist Point Cliff Lighthouse Viewpoint location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Low-Visibility Conditions
Discover more about Neist Point Cliff Lighthouse Viewpoint
A Storied Beacon on Skye's Edge
Neist Point Lighthouse stands sentinel at the westernmost tip of the Isle of Skye, Scotland, illuminating the Atlantic since its first lighting in 1909. Designed by David Alan Stevenson, this historic lighthouse rises 62 feet tall and its light reaches up to 24 miles offshore. Though fully automated since 1990, the lighthouse remains a powerful symbol of maritime heritage, surrounded by former keeper cottages now privately owned. Its remote location on the Duirinish peninsula lends it a wild, untouched character cherished by visitors.Dramatic Coastal Landscape and Trails
The approach to Neist Point involves a scenic drive along narrow, single-track roads that wind through Skye’s rugged landscapes. A free car park marks the trailhead, from which a steep concrete path descends roughly 1.3 kilometers to the lighthouse itself. Along this route, walkers are treated to sweeping views of towering sea cliffs, rock formations, and the crashing waves below. The path is well-maintained but can be challenging due to steep sections and boggy terrain near the top, rewarding hikers with stunning photo opportunities.Panoramic Vistas and Wildlife Encounters
From the cliff tops and the lighthouse point, visitors can gaze out over Moonen Bay and Waterstein Head, with vistas extending to the Western Isles. The area is a hotspot for marine wildlife including whales, dolphins, basking sharks, and numerous seabirds such as gannets and razorbills. The nearby rocky shorelines offer excellent fishing spots, and the sound of waves mingling with seabird calls enhances the natural ambiance.Sunset Spectacle and Photographic Haven
Neist Point is famed for its spectacular sunsets, where the lighthouse and cliffs are bathed in golden light, creating iconic photographic scenes. The best views are found by walking along the cliff edge northward from the car park or descending to the lighthouse’s base. The western exposure makes it one of the prime locations on Skye to witness the sun dip below the horizon, attracting photographers and nature lovers alike.Visitor Experience and Practical Considerations
While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the surrounding area offers ample exploration opportunities. Visitors should prepare for limited facilities: no public toilets or cafés are available on site, and parking can fill quickly during peak seasons. The walk requires moderate fitness due to steep climbs, and weather conditions can impact safety, especially in high winds or rain. Dogs should be kept on short leads due to grazing sheep. Despite these challenges, the raw beauty and tranquility of Neist Point reward those who venture here.Preserving a Natural and Cultural Landmark
Neist Point Lighthouse and its environs are treasured for their ecological and cultural significance. The site’s rugged terrain and coastal habitat support diverse wildlife, while its historic lighthouse connects visitors to Scotland’s maritime past. Efforts to maintain access while protecting the fragile environment ensure that Neist Point remains a sustainable and inspiring destination for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Neist Point Lighthouse
0.9 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
Dun Osdale
11.2 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Ardmore Arches
15.0 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Iron age broch
17.2 km
Explore a uniquely Scottish Iron Age broch perched above Portree, revealing ancient stone craftsmanship and commanding views of Skye’s dramatic landscape.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
18.2 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
32.0 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Sound of Harris
40.7 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Old Ruins
41.1 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Temple Harris
44.5 km
A modern café and deli in Northton, Isle of Harris, serving great coffee, soups and local produce with stunning sea views across the bay.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
48.1 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.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
48.1 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Harris House
52.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Visit Outer Hebrides
64.2 km
Your essential gateway to exploring the wild beauty and rich Gaelic culture of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands.
Armadale Castle, Gardens & Museum
66.7 km
Experience the rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes at Armadale Castle, Gardens & Museum on the Isle of Skye, a perfect blend of history and nature.
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
70.5 km
Historic 19th-century octagonal lighthouse overlooking the narrow Kyle Rhea strait, offering stunning coastal views and maritime heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Unmissable attractions to see
Basalt pavement
1.1 km
Explore the stunning basalt pavement at Waterstein, a unique volcanic rock formation set against the scenic coastal beauty of the Isle of Skye.
Dunvegan Castle & Gardens
11.7 km
Explore Dunvegan Castle & Gardens — historic Highland heritage, enchanting gardens, and seal boat trips on the Isle of Skye.
Giant Angus MacAskill Museum
12.2 km
Discover the life and legend of Angus MacAskill, the tallest true giant, in a charming Highland croft museum on the Isle of Skye.
Dun Ardtreck
23.7 km
Explore Dun Ardtreck, a striking Iron Age fort perched on Skye’s rugged coast, blending ancient history with breathtaking Highland vistas.
Amar River Viewpoint
24.2 km
Discover tranquil vistas and natural beauty at Amar River Viewpoint, a serene Highland escape on the Isle of Skye.
Gesto Bay Viewpoint
24.6 km
Discover sweeping coastal panoramas and tranquil natural beauty at Gesto Bay Viewpoint, a serene gem on the Isle of Skye.
Talisker Waterfall
24.8 km
Experience the stunning 60-meter Talisker Waterfall and serene Talisker Bay Beach, a natural gem on the Isle of Skye's rugged west coast.
Talisker Bay Stack
25.4 km
Dramatic cliffs, wind-blown waterfall, and golden sands where Skye's wild spirit meets the Atlantic.
Talisker Bay Beach
25.5 km
Discover Talisker Bay Beach, where dramatic cliffs, a towering waterfall, and a sea stack meet the wild beauty of Skye’s west coast.
Heath Falls
26.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Heath Falls, a hidden waterfall nestled in the wild landscapes of the Isle of Skye.
St. Columba’s Isle
28.7 km
Explore St. Columba’s Isle, a sacred burial ground and historic ecclesiastical site embodying centuries of Skye’s spiritual heritage.
Lou Lou Designs on Skye
29.3 km
Discover unique, handmade Harris Tweed handbags and accessories crafted with passion on the Isle of Skye’s scenic Carbostbeg.
Carbost Burn Waterfall
29.5 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Carbost Burn Waterfall, a serene and accessible natural cascade on the Isle of Skye.
Skye Monkstadt 1745 Restaurant with Rooms
31.6 km
Historic Clan McDonald lodge offering luxurious suites, exquisite local cuisine, and breathtaking Skye views in a serene, remote setting.
Castle Ewen
32.1 km
Discover Castle Ewen, the natural basalt fortress of Fairy Glen, where ancient geology meets enchanting landscapes on the Isle of Skye.
Essential places to dine
The Three Chimneys and The House Over-by
8.6 km
A celebrated Isle of Skye restaurant and hotel blending local flavors with innovative cuisine in a stunning lochside setting.
The Dunvegan, Isle of Skye
12.1 km
Cozy Argentinian-inspired fire-cooked dining and charming lodging in the heart of Dunvegan, Isle of Skye.
The Bistro at Atholl House Skye
12.5 km
Cozy dining with seasonal Scottish fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Dunvegan, Isle of Skye.
Old School Restaurant
12.6 km
Historic family-run restaurant in Dunvegan serving fresh local seafood and Scottish fare with warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere.
Loch Bay Restaurant
15.8 km
Intimate Michelin-starred seafood dining in a cozy cottage overlooking the stunning waters of Loch Bay on the Isle of Skye.
Gasta Port Righ
35.0 km
A vibrant pizzeria and artisan candle hub blending local flavors, crafts, and culture in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
Antlers Bar and Grill
35.4 km
A welcoming Highland pub and grill in Portree, serving fresh local seafood, Highland beef, and inclusive menus with lively live music.
Cuchullin Restaurant
35.4 km
Experience the freshest Scottish seafood in the heart of Portree’s lively Somerled Square at Cuchullin Restaurant.
The Caledonian Cafe
35.4 km
Cozy cafe in Portree offering hearty local breakfast and lunch with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere on the Isle of Skye.
Tianavaig Restaurant
35.4 km
A friendly, casual restaurant in Portree serving classic Scottish dishes with fresh local ingredients and warm hospitality.
Scorrybreac Restaurant
35.5 km
Elegant small plates and innovative Scottish cuisine with a French twist, set above Portree harbour on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Sea Breezes
35.5 km
Intimate harbourfront seafood restaurant showcasing Skye's finest local catches with contemporary technique
The View Restaurant
35.9 km
Savor exquisite Scottish cuisine with breathtaking harbor views at The View Restaurant, Portree’s premier dining destination on the Isle of Skye.
Seumas' Bar
39.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at Seumas' Bar on the Isle of Skye—where local flavors meet stunning views.
The Anchorage Restaurant, Cafe & Bar
40.0 km
Fresh seafood and local flavors served with stunning harbour views in a relaxed, welcoming setting on Leverburgh’s pier.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kelpie Gallery & Gift Shop
1.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish artistry and handcrafted treasures from Isle of Skye's creative community.
GIFTSHOP
3.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and warm hospitality at Triskele Gift Shop, a charming retreat near Neist Point on the Isle of Skye.
Fasgadh Stores
12.2 km
Your friendly village shop in Dunvegan, offering local produce, essentials, and a warm welcome on the Isle of Skye.
Scottish Tablet from Isle of Skye - Highland Favours
19.7 km
Experience the rich, buttery sweetness of authentic Scottish tablet crafted with care on the Isle of Skye at Highland Favours.
Anna Eastwood Jewellery
24.2 km
Discover handcrafted jewellery inspired by the rugged beauty and heritage of the Isle of Skye at Anna Eastwood Jewellery in Fiscavaig.
Carbost Community Shop
29.7 km
A welcoming community-run shop offering local and vegan delights in the heart of Carbost, Isle of Skye’s charming village life.
Hendersons World
30.9 km
Explore Hendersons World in Uig for unique gifts, toys, and games that capture the spirit of Scotland.
Isle of Skye Aromatics
32.0 km
Discover authentic Highland scents and handmade gifts at Isle of Skye Aromatics in charming Carbost.
Home in the Highlands Portree
35.3 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.
Skye Batiks
35.3 km
Discover vibrant Celtic batiks and handloomed textiles crafted with passion in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
Isle of Skye Distillers
35.4 km
Discover the heart of Skye’s craft spirits with Misty Isle Gin, immersive gin-making, and a vibrant shop in Portree’s center.
Skye souvenirs
35.4 km
Authentic Isle of Skye souvenirs in a traditional black house setting, celebrating local craftsmanship and heritage in Portree.
ÒR
35.4 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery inspired by Skye’s heritage at ÒR, a charming boutique in the heart of Portree.
Tippecanoe
35.4 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and fair-trade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant main street.
Isle of Skye Crafts @ Over the Rainbow
35.5 km
Discover authentic Isle of Skye crafts and unique handmade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant harbour town.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Stein Inn
15.7 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
The Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse
29.5 km
Charming Scottish inn with stunning Loch Harport views, local cuisine, live traditional music, and cozy accommodation on the Isle of Skye.
The Ferry Inn
31.2 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
The Isles Inn
35.3 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.
West Highlands Bar
35.3 km
Cozy Highland pub in Portree offering local whiskies, Isle of Skye brews, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
An Talla Mòr Eighteen Twenty
35.4 km
Historic church-turned-pub in Portree offering local ales, live music, and authentic Scottish hospitality in a charming, lively setting.
Merchant Bar
35.5 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
35.5 km
An intimate cocktail and whisky bar with stunning Portree Harbour views, blending classic recipes with Hebridean flavors on the Isle of Skye.
The Auld Bridge Inn
35.7 km
A cozy Highland bar on Skye offering local drinks and scenic views, perfect for relaxing after exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.
Westford Inn
39.8 km
A cozy Hebridean pub on North Uist offering hearty local cuisine, craft ales, and warm island hospitality in a traditional stone setting.
Isle of Harris Brewery
40.0 km
Crafting island-brewed beers and fresh Hebridean fare in a lively waterfront taproom on the Isle of Harris.
The Bothy
40.7 km
A cozy pub and café in Leverburgh offering local ales, hearty meals, and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Harris.
Ardhasaig House Hotel and Restaurant
54.9 km
A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.
Gabbro Bar
56.4 km
A cozy, dog-friendly local pub in Broadford serving Skye-inspired drinks, hearty snacks, and lively entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.
The King Haakon Bar
65.7 km
A lively Scottish pub in Kyleakin offering fresh seafood, malt whiskies, live traditional music, and stunning views of the Skye Bridge.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skye Camanachd Social Club
34.2 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
47.0 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
The Scaladale Centre
62.7 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Red fox
94.0 km
Red Fox on the Isle of Lewis: Dive into a vibrant adult entertainment scene amidst breathtaking landscapes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
