Torrin Pools: Tranquil Waterfalls and Wild Swimming on the Isle of Skye
Discover the serene Torrin Pools, a tranquil wild swimming spot with stunning waterfalls and mountain views on the Isle of Skye.
Torrin Pools, nestled near the village of Torrin on the Isle of Skye, offer a serene alternative to the busier Fairy Pools. These aquamarine pools and gentle waterfalls lie alongside Loch Slapin, providing a peaceful setting for wild swimming, picnics, and scenic exploration. Easily accessible with short walks over grassy slopes and rugged paths, Torrin Pools enchant visitors with their natural beauty and views of the Cuillin mountains.
A brief summary to Torrin Pools
- 6X9G+JJ, Isle of Skye, Torrin, GB
- 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
- Bring sturdy walking shoes for uneven and sometimes slippery paths around the pools.
- Pack a towel and swimwear if you plan to enjoy wild swimming in the clear, cool waters.
- Visit during quieter times of day to fully enjoy the peaceful atmosphere away from crowds.
- Use the left side path for easier access and gentle slopes; the right side is steeper and more challenging.
- Bring picnic supplies to enjoy the grassy areas beside the pools with scenic mountain views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Broadford to Torrin Pools takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. There is roadside parking near the small bridge over the burn on the Elgol-Broadford road. Parking is free but limited, and the terrain near the pools can be uneven, so plan accordingly.
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Bus and Walk
Take a local bus from Broadford to Torrin village, which takes around 25 to 35 minutes depending on service schedules. From Torrin, it is a 10 to 15-minute walk along uneven paths to reach the pools. Bus services may be infrequent, so check the timetable in advance.
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Walking
For adventurous walkers, a hike from Torrin village to the pools takes about 15 minutes over grassy and rocky terrain. The path includes some narrow and steep sections, so suitable footwear and good mobility are recommended.
Torrin Pools 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 Torrin Pools
A Hidden Gem of the Isle of Skye
Torrin Pools are a lesser-known but equally captivating counterpart to the famed Fairy Pools, located near the small village of Torrin on the Isle of Skye. Unlike their more popular sibling, the pools are less commercialized and attract fewer crowds, making them a perfect spot for visitors seeking tranquility. The pools are formed where two burns—the Allt Aisridh and the Allt an t-Sratha Bhig—converge, creating a series of crystal-clear aquamarine pools and gentle waterfalls nestled in a lush, grassy landscape.Natural Beauty and Wild Swimming
The pools offer excellent opportunities for wild swimming in pristine, cool waters surrounded by stunning mountain vistas, including views of the Bla Bheinn peak and Loch Slapin. On warm days, it’s common to see visitors splashing in the water or relaxing on grassy banks perfect for picnics. The water’s clarity and the serene setting make it a favored spot for those wanting to experience Skye’s natural beauty away from the busiest tourist sites.Access and Terrain
Access to Torrin Pools is straightforward yet involves walking over uneven terrain. From the roadside parking near a small bridge on the Elgol-Broadford road, visitors follow footpaths or sheep tracks along either side of the burn. The left side offers a gentle grassy slope and easier footing, while the right side features narrower, steeper paths requiring sure-footedness. Both sides provide stunning views of the pools and surrounding landscape. The area is not fully accessible for less mobile visitors due to the natural and rugged terrain.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Torrin Pools are often described as peaceful and rejuvenating, offering a quiet retreat with fewer visitors than the Fairy Pools. The sound of cascading water, the fresh Highland air, and the panoramic views create a calming atmosphere. The site is ideal for wild swimmers, photographers, or anyone looking to enjoy a scenic walk with the chance to dip into refreshing waters. Nearby grassy areas invite picnics, and the pools themselves are a natural playground for exploration.Local Context and Surroundings
Situated near the banks of Loch Slapin, Torrin Pools lie in a region rich with natural beauty and outdoor activities. The village of Torrin itself is a quaint Highland settlement, and the nearby road to Elgol offers spectacular views of the Cuillin Mountains. The pools are often overlooked by visitors rushing to Elgol, making them a special find for those who pause to explore. The area is also close to other notable Skye attractions, making it a worthwhile stop on a broader island itinerary.Seasonal Considerations and Safety
The pools are accessible year-round, but visitors should be prepared for typical Highland weather conditions, which can include rain, wind, and cold temperatures. The water is cold even in summer, so wild swimming is best suited for those prepared for chilly conditions or wearing wetsuits. The paths can become slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended. There are no formal facilities on site, so visitors should plan accordingly.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
21.6 km
Historic 19th-century octagonal lighthouse overlooking the narrow Kyle Rhea strait, offering stunning coastal views and maritime heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
29.1 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Eilean Donan Castle
31.1 km
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Iron age broch
35.4 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
41.3 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Neist Point Lighthouse
51.2 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
52.5 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Old Ruins
53.6 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
53.8 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Tobermory Clock Tower
66.4 km
Historic granite clock tower memorializing local heritage, standing proudly by Tobermory’s colourful harbour on the Isle of Mull.
Official end of the West Highland Way
71.0 km
Celebrate the end of Scotland’s iconic West Highland Way in Fort William, where rugged mountains meet vibrant Highland culture.
Commando Memorial
74.4 km
A stirring World War II tribute set against breathtaking Highland vistas, honoring the bravery of British Commandos.
The Well of Seven Heads
76.3 km
Explore the Well of Seven Heads in Spean Bridge: a historical gem rich in folklore, nestled in the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.
Invergarry Castle
76.9 km
Explore the historic Invergarry Castle, a captivating ruin set in Scotland's stunning Highlands, where history meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Bridge of Oich
78.3 km
Victorian engineering marvel: a rare surviving taper-principle suspension bridge from 1854.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ben Na Cro
2.8 km
A quiet Red Cuillin peak offering straightforward hillwalking, panoramic views, and genuine Highland solitude.
Loch Cill Chriosd
4.1 km
A tranquil freshwater loch cradled in Skye's sacred valley, where golden reeds meet dramatic mountains.
Dun Ringill
4.5 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.
Strath Suardale Chambered Cairn
5.5 km
Explore the ancient Neolithic Strath Suardale Chambered Cairn, a timeless stone tomb nestled in the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the Isle of Skye.
View point LOCH AINORT
7.0 km
Discover breathtaking views of Loch Ainort and the Red Cuillin Mountains from this serene Isle of Skye viewpoint.
Spar Cave
9.2 km
Discover Spar Cave’s dazzling calcite formations and legendary tales on Skye’s rugged coast, accessible only at low tide for the adventurous.
Dunscaith Castle
9.6 km
Explore the legendary Fortress of Shadows, Dunscaith Castle, where myth and medieval history meet on the wild Isle of Skye coast.
Sligachan Old Bridge
12.0 km
Historic 19th-century stone bridge with stunning Cuillin mountain views and legendary enchanted waters on the Isle of Skye.
Coire Lagan, Isle of Skye
12.7 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.
Bruach Na Frithe junction cairn
13.3 km
Serene gateway to the Black Cuillin’s rugged peaks, offering accessible hiking and breathtaking Highland panoramas.
Allt Dubh View Point
13.8 km
Discover breathtaking mountain and river views framed by a historic stone bridge at Allt Dubh View Point on the Isle of Skye.
Fairy Pools
14.6 km
Discover the magical waterfalls and crystal-clear pools of Skye’s Fairy Pools, set beneath the dramatic Black Cuillin mountains.
Glen Brittle Waterfalls
15.8 km
Turquoise pools and dramatic cascades beneath the Black Cuillin—Scotland's most enchanting mountain waterfalls.
Glenbrittle
16.1 km
Glenbrittle offers rugged mountain beauty and tranquil coastal charm at the foot of Skye’s iconic Cuillin Ridge.
Leitir Fura
16.8 km
A tranquil woodland walk through Skye's hidden forest, where nature has reclaimed a lost Highland settlement.
Essential places to dine
Cafe Sia & Siaway
7.1 km
Charming island café serving fresh pizzas and quality coffee in a relaxed, friendly setting on the Isle of Skye.
The Shellfish Shack
8.0 km
Fresh, locally caught shellfish served with friendly smiles in a charming coastal shack on the Isle of Skye.
Claymore Restaurant
8.0 km
Cozy seafood dining with fresh local catches and warm hospitality in Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming coastal village.
North Harbour Bistro and Tearoom
8.9 km
Exceptional seafood dining with stunning harbour views on the tranquil Isle of Scalpay, blending local flavors and warm hospitality.
Red Skye Restaurant
11.0 km
Authentic Scottish flavors and warm hospitality in a cozy, rustic setting on the stunning Isle of Skye.
The Noost
11.8 km
Charming waterside takeaway café in Sconser offering superb coffee, homemade cakes, and scenic outdoor seating by the Raasay ferry terminal.
Seumas' Bar
12.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at Seumas' Bar on the Isle of Skye—where local flavors meet stunning views.
Restaurant at the Duisdale
15.0 km
Elegant dining on Skye’s southeast coast offering fresh local fare with stunning Sound of Sleat views in a nautical-chic setting.
Taste of India, Kyleakin
17.6 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
18.6 km
Charming British dining with panoramic Skye Bridge views in Kyleakin’s historic heart, blending local flavors and cozy ambiance.
Castle Moil Restaurant
18.7 km
Waterside Scottish dining with fresh seafood, warm hospitality, and views of the iconic Skye Bridge.
The Shed
18.9 km
Enjoy hearty, fresh seafood and iconic fish and chips in a relaxed setting on the scenic Isle of Skye’s A851 route.
Gasta Port Righ
23.0 km
A vibrant pizzeria and artisan candle hub blending local flavors, crafts, and culture in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
Sea Breezes
23.6 km
Intimate harbourfront seafood restaurant showcasing Skye's finest local catches with contemporary technique
Tianavaig Restaurant
23.8 km
A friendly, casual restaurant in Portree serving classic Scottish dishes with fresh local ingredients and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Buzy Vee
7.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and quality sewing supplies in Broadford’s welcoming Buzy Vee gift shop.
The Blue Skye gift co.
7.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and enjoy great coffee in the heart of Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming local treasure.
Skye Antiques
7.5 km
Explore timeless antiques and local heritage treasures in the cozy charm of Skye Antiques, Broadford’s beloved collectible shop.
The Skye Gift Company
7.5 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
7.5 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
7.5 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique local artistry at Nook & Cranny, Broadford’s cozy gift shop on the Isle of Skye.
Jazz Buchanan Creations
9.0 km
Discover stylish Scottish art and unique gifts inspired by the Isle of Skye’s stunning landscapes at Jazz Buchanan Creations in Elgol.
Skye Smithy
9.3 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
11.0 km
Discover the creativity of local artisans at The Kraft Kabin Skye, a charming craft shop in Breakish offering unique handmade treasures.
scottishquality.com
15.8 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.
Floraidh Skye
15.8 km
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Isle of Skye Leather Co.
18.9 km
Discover exquisite handmade Scottish leather goods crafted with centuries-old tradition on the Isle of Skye.
Isle of Skye Aromatics
19.4 km
Discover authentic Highland scents and handmade gifts at Isle of Skye Aromatics in charming Carbost.
Carbost Community Shop
21.7 km
A welcoming community-run shop offering local and vegan delights in the heart of Carbost, Isle of Skye’s charming village life.
Isle of Skye Crafts @ Over the Rainbow
23.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gabbro Bar
7.1 km
A cozy, dog-friendly local pub in Broadford serving Skye-inspired drinks, hearty snacks, and lively entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bar Am Praban
15.8 km
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The King Haakon Bar
18.7 km
A lively Scottish pub in Kyleakin offering fresh seafood, malt whiskies, live traditional music, and stunning views of the Skye Bridge.
Macnamara & Bothin Bar
19.1 km
A cozy bar in Ardvasar offering local whiskies, stunning Isle of Skye views, and warm Scottish hospitality in a rustic setting.
The Auld Bridge Inn
20.6 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
21.8 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
23.8 km
Historic church-turned-pub in Portree offering local ales, live music, and authentic Scottish hospitality in a charming, lively setting.
The Bar at Scorrybreac
23.8 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
23.8 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
23.9 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
23.9 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.
Rockvilla Hotel, Rooms, Restaurant & Bar - Lochcarron - NC500 Route
38.2 km
Charming Highland guest house with stunning loch views, excellent local cuisine, and warm hospitality on the NC500 route.
Nanny's
40.2 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
Beinn Bar
45.4 km
Cozy up with Scotland’s finest whiskies, ales, and gins in a historic Highland bar nestled within The Torridon estate.
The Ferry Inn
45.9 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skye Camanachd Social Club
24.4 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
Roobarb
70.9 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
81.4 km
Discover the Isle of Mull Rugby Club: A vibrant community hub where sports and local culture come together amidst stunning Scottish scenery.
Number 5
83.4 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
91.1 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
96.8 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Harris
99.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Harris, an enchanting island in Scotland's Outer Hebrides, where adventure meets tranquility.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Wild Swimming
- Photowalk
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
