Sligachan Old Bridge: Historic Stone Bridge Amidst the Cuillin Mountains
Historic 19th-century stone bridge with stunning Cuillin mountain views and legendary enchanted waters on the Isle of Skye.
Sligachan Old Bridge, built between 1810 and 1818 by famed engineer Thomas Telford, is a picturesque three-arched stone bridge on the Isle of Skye. Nestled in the heart of the island, it offers stunning views of the Cuillin mountain range and the River Sligachan. Beyond its engineering significance, the bridge is steeped in local folklore, including legends of enchanted waters granting eternal beauty. It remains a beloved landmark for walkers, climbers, and nature lovers.
A brief summary to Sligachan Old Bridge
- Isle of Skye, Sligachan, GB
- Visit website
- 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
- Visit on a clear morning for the best light on the Cuillin mountains and to experience the peaceful atmosphere.
- Wear sturdy footwear if exploring the riverbanks and surrounding trails, as terrain can be uneven.
- Try the local legend by dipping your face briefly into the river’s waters for a mythical touch of eternal beauty.
- Explore the nearby Sligachan Hotel for refreshments and to learn more about the area’s climbing history.
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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Bus
Take the local bus service from Portree to Sligachan, which runs several times daily with a journey time of approximately 30–40 minutes. The bus stops near the Old Bridge; fares typically range from £5 to £8. Note that services may be less frequent in winter.
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Car
Driving from Portree, the main town on Skye, takes about 20 minutes via the A87. Parking is available near the Old Bridge but can be limited during peak season. No parking fees apply. The roads are well-maintained but can be narrow and winding.
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Walking
For adventurous walkers, a scenic 2-hour hike from Sligachan village to the Old Bridge follows well-marked paths with moderate terrain. Suitable for those with good fitness and proper footwear.
Sligachan Old Bridge 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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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Sligachan Old Bridge
Engineering Marvel of the Scottish Highlands
Constructed between 1810 and 1818 under the direction of Thomas Telford, one of Scotland's most renowned civil engineers, the Sligachan Old Bridge stands as a testament to early 19th-century Highland ingenuity. This three-arched stone bridge, featuring a distinctive humpback design, was originally a vital part of the main A87 route across the Isle of Skye. Its rubble construction blends seamlessly with the rugged natural surroundings, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal. Though replaced by a modern bridge for vehicular traffic, the Old Bridge endures as a cherished historical structure and a Category B listed building, preserving a tangible link to the island’s past.A Gateway to the Cuillin Mountains
Located in the heart of Skye, the bridge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the dramatic Cuillin Hills, including both the Red and Black Cuillin ranges. The surrounding landscape is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking, climbing, and birdwatching opportunities abundant. The nearby Sligachan Hotel has long served as a base for mountaineers aiming to conquer the challenging peaks. The bridge’s position beside the River Sligachan provides a serene setting where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and ever-changing moods of the Highlands.Legend of the Enchanted Waters
Local folklore enriches the allure of the Sligachan Old Bridge. The river beneath is said to be enchanted by faeries, with a captivating legend involving Scotland’s warrior woman Scáthach and the Irish hero Cú Chulainn. Their epic battle shook the land, and it was only through the intervention of Scáthach’s daughter—who washed her face in the river’s magical waters—that peace was restored. According to tradition, anyone brave enough to submerge their face in the icy waters for seven seconds is granted eternal beauty by the faeries. This enchanting story adds a mystical dimension to the bridge, inviting visitors to connect with Skye’s rich mythic heritage.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Today, the Old Bridge is a popular spot for photographers, walkers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature. The area around the bridge is accessible and easy to explore on foot, with paths leading to different vantage points along the riverbanks. The atmosphere is tranquil yet inspiring, framed by the imposing mountains and the gentle flow of the river. The bronze statue of pioneering mountaineers near the bridge commemorates the island’s climbing heritage and offers a contemplative place to pause and absorb the scenery.Preservation and Cultural Significance
The Sligachan Old Bridge is more than a functional crossing; it is a cultural landmark that embodies the spirit of the Isle of Skye. Its preservation as a historic structure ensures that future generations can appreciate the craftsmanship of Thomas Telford and the stories woven into the landscape. The bridge and its surroundings continue to inspire artists, writers, and adventurers, maintaining a vital connection between Skye’s natural grandeur and its human history.Timeless Beauty in a Changing Landscape
Despite modern developments, the Old Bridge remains a symbol of enduring beauty and resilience. It invites visitors to step back in time and experience the rugged charm of the Highlands, where history, legend, and nature converge. Whether crossing the bridge, admiring the Cuillin peaks, or contemplating the enchanted waters, visitors find themselves immersed in a place where the past and present harmoniously coexist.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
18.5 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Iron age broch
23.5 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
29.5 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
31.1 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
39.5 km
Discover Scotland’s most iconic castle set on a tranquil island where history, nature, and legend converge in breathtaking Highland scenery.
Neist Point Lighthouse
39.8 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
Ardmore Arches
40.5 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
41.9 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
44.0 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
68.9 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.
Tobermory Clock Tower
74.4 km
Historic granite clock tower memorializing local heritage, standing proudly by Tobermory’s colourful harbour on the Isle of Mull.
Sound of Harris
76.1 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Harris House
77.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Temple Harris
78.0 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.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
79.2 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Unmissable attractions to see
Allt Dubh View Point
2.0 km
Discover breathtaking mountain and river views framed by a historic stone bridge at Allt Dubh View Point on the Isle of Skye.
Bruach Na Frithe junction cairn
3.7 km
Serene gateway to the Black Cuillin’s rugged peaks, offering accessible hiking and breathtaking Highland panoramas.
Fairy Pools
6.7 km
Discover the magical waterfalls and crystal-clear pools of Skye’s Fairy Pools, set beneath the dramatic Black Cuillin mountains.
View point LOCH AINORT
8.2 km
Discover breathtaking views of Loch Ainort and the Red Cuillin Mountains from this serene Isle of Skye viewpoint.
Coire Lagan, Isle of Skye
9.9 km
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.
Glen Brittle Waterfalls
10.0 km
Turquoise pools and dramatic cascades beneath the Black Cuillin—Scotland's most enchanting mountain waterfalls.
Ben Na Cro
10.0 km
A quiet Red Cuillin peak offering straightforward hillwalking, panoramic views, and genuine Highland solitude.
Picnic bench
11.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Isle of Skye at the Picnic Bench, an idyllic spot for relaxation and breathtaking views.
Carbost Burn Waterfall
11.3 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Carbost Burn Waterfall, a serene and accessible natural cascade on the Isle of Skye.
Glenbrittle
11.3 km
Glenbrittle offers rugged mountain beauty and tranquil coastal charm at the foot of Skye’s iconic Cuillin Ridge.
Lou Lou Designs on Skye
11.3 km
Discover unique, handmade Harris Tweed handbags and accessories crafted with passion on the Isle of Skye’s scenic Carbostbeg.
Torrin Pools
12.0 km
Discover the serene Torrin Pools, a tranquil wild swimming spot with stunning waterfalls and mountain views on the Isle of Skye.
Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre
12.6 km
Discover artisan candles, delicious pizza, and cultural events at Portree’s vibrant Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre.
The Lump
13.4 km
Discover The Lump, a scenic hilltop in Portree with historic tower, panoramic views, and a rich Highland Games heritage.
Uig/Portree Isle of Sky
13.5 km
Portree, Isle of Skye’s charming harbour town, blends vibrant local culture with breathtaking mountain and sea views.
Essential places to dine
Seumas' Bar
0.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at Seumas' Bar on the Isle of Skye—where local flavors meet stunning views.
The Noost
4.5 km
Charming waterside takeaway café in Sconser offering superb coffee, homemade cakes, and scenic outdoor seating by the Raasay ferry terminal.
Gasta Port Righ
12.6 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
13.5 km
Intimate harbourfront seafood restaurant showcasing Skye's finest local catches with contemporary technique
Tianavaig Restaurant
13.7 km
A friendly, casual restaurant in Portree serving classic Scottish dishes with fresh local ingredients and warm hospitality.
Antlers Bar and Grill
13.7 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
13.7 km
Cozy cafe in Portree offering hearty local breakfast and lunch with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere on the Isle of Skye.
Scorrybreac Restaurant
13.7 km
Elegant small plates and innovative Scottish cuisine with a French twist, set above Portree harbour on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Cuchullin Restaurant
13.8 km
Experience the freshest Scottish seafood in the heart of Portree’s lively Somerled Square at Cuchullin Restaurant.
The View Restaurant
14.0 km
Savor exquisite Scottish cuisine with breathtaking harbor views at The View Restaurant, Portree’s premier dining destination on the Isle of Skye.
North Harbour Bistro and Tearoom
14.3 km
Exceptional seafood dining with stunning harbour views on the tranquil Isle of Scalpay, blending local flavors and warm hospitality.
Cafe Sia & Siaway
16.4 km
Charming island café serving fresh pizzas and quality coffee in a relaxed, friendly setting on the Isle of Skye.
The Shellfish Shack
17.7 km
Fresh, locally caught shellfish served with friendly smiles in a charming coastal shack on the Isle of Skye.
Claymore Restaurant
17.7 km
Cozy seafood dining with fresh local catches and warm hospitality in Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming coastal village.
Red Skye Restaurant
20.5 km
Authentic Scottish flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy, rustic setting on the stunning Isle of Skye.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Isle of Skye Aromatics
8.1 km
Discover authentic Highland scents and handmade gifts at Isle of Skye Aromatics in charming Carbost.
Carbost Community Shop
10.8 km
A welcoming community-run shop offering local and vegan delights in the heart of Carbost, Isle of Skye’s charming village life.
Skye Batiks
13.7 km
Discover vibrant Celtic batiks and handloomed textiles crafted with passion in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
Isle of Skye Crafts @ Over the Rainbow
13.7 km
Discover authentic Isle of Skye crafts and unique handmade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant harbour town.
Home in the Highlands Portree
13.7 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.
Tippecanoe
13.7 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and fair-trade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant main street.
Cuillin Crafts
13.7 km
Authentic island craftsmanship and locally made treasures in the heart of Portree.
Isle of Skye Distillers
13.7 km
Discover the heart of Skye’s craft spirits with Misty Isle Gin, immersive gin-making, and a vibrant shop in Portree’s center.
ÒR
13.7 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery inspired by Skye’s heritage at ÒR, a charming boutique in the heart of Portree.
Skye souvenirs
13.7 km
Authentic Isle of Skye souvenirs in a traditional black house setting, celebrating local craftsmanship and heritage in Portree.
Anna Eastwood Jewellery
16.1 km
Discover handcrafted jewellery inspired by the rugged beauty and heritage of the Isle of Skye at Anna Eastwood Jewellery in Fiscavaig.
Jazz Buchanan Creations
16.3 km
Discover stylish Scottish art and unique gifts inspired by the Isle of Skye’s stunning landscapes at Jazz Buchanan Creations in Elgol.
Buzy Vee
16.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and quality sewing supplies in Broadford’s welcoming Buzy Vee gift shop.
The Blue Skye gift co.
16.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and enjoy great coffee in the heart of Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming local treasure.
Skye Antiques
16.9 km
Explore timeless antiques and local heritage treasures in the cozy charm of Skye Antiques, Broadford’s beloved collectible shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Auld Bridge Inn
10.1 km
A cozy Highland bar on Skye offering local drinks and scenic views, perfect for relaxing after exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.
The Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse
10.9 km
Charming Scottish inn with stunning Loch Harport views, local cuisine, live traditional music, and cozy accommodation on the Isle of Skye.
An Talla Mòr Eighteen Twenty
13.6 km
Historic church-turned-pub in Portree offering local ales, live music, and authentic Scottish hospitality in a charming, lively setting.
West Highlands Bar
13.7 km
Cozy Highland pub in Portree offering local whiskies, Isle of Skye brews, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
The Bar at Scorrybreac
13.7 km
An intimate cocktail and whisky bar with stunning Portree Harbour views, blending classic recipes with Hebridean flavors on the Isle of Skye.
Merchant Bar
13.7 km
Experience authentic Isle of Skye hospitality with local ales, fine whiskies, and hearty Highland fare in the cozy Merchant Bar of Portree.
The Isles Inn
13.8 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.
Gabbro Bar
16.6 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
26.8 km
A lively Scottish pub in Kyleakin offering fresh seafood, malt whiskies, live traditional music, and stunning views of the Skye Bridge.
Bar Am Praban
27.6 km
Cozy up with hearty Highland fare and fresh seafood in a welcoming pub setting on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Macnamara & Bothin Bar
30.2 km
A cozy bar in Ardvasar offering local whiskies, stunning Isle of Skye views, and warm Scottish hospitality in a rustic setting.
The Stein Inn
34.6 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
35.3 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
Nanny's
40.4 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
43.2 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
13.9 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
72.0 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
The Isle of Harris Golf Club
79.3 km
Discover the beauty of The Isle of Harris Golf Club, where stunning landscapes meet unforgettable golfing experiences in the heart of the Hebrides.
Roobarb
82.9 km
Experience Fort William’s vibrant nightlife at Roobarb, the welcoming nightclub where music and dancing light up weekend nights.
The Scaladale Centre
85.9 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Isle of Mull Rugby Club
91.1 km
Discover the Isle of Mull Rugby Club: A vibrant community hub where sports and local culture come together amidst stunning Scottish scenery.
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
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
