Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse: Historic Coastal Beacon on the Isle of Skye
Historic 19th-century octagonal lighthouse overlooking the narrow Kyle Rhea strait, offering stunning coastal views and maritime heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse is a charming historical landmark located at Kylerhea on the Isle of Skye, Scotland. Built around 1880, this white cast-iron octagonal tower stands sentinel over the narrow Kyle Rhea strait, a key crossing point between Skye and the mainland. It offers visitors stunning coastal views and a glimpse into the maritime heritage of the region, near the site of the world’s last manually operated turntable ferry.
A brief summary to Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
- 68PM+RV, Isle of Skye, Kylerhea, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours for the best views and photo opportunities of the lighthouse and Kyle Rhea strait.
- Combine your visit with a ride on the nearby manually operated turntable ferry for a unique Highland experience.
- Wear sturdy footwear if exploring the surrounding coastal paths, which can be uneven and rocky.
- Check local weather forecasts before visiting, as conditions can change rapidly along the coast.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Portree, the main town on Skye, takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes via the A87 and single-track roads leading to Kylerhea. The route includes narrow sections requiring careful navigation. Parking near the lighthouse is limited and informal, so arrive early during peak seasons.
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Ferry and Walk
From Glenelg on the mainland, take the manually operated turntable ferry across the Kyle Rhea strait during its operating hours (seasonal and weather dependent). The ferry crossing takes about 10 minutes. From the Kylerhea ferry slip, it is a 15-minute walk along a coastal path to the lighthouse, which is moderately uneven terrain.
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Public Transport and Taxi
Limited bus service runs from Portree to nearby Kylerhea village, with travel times around 1.5 hours and infrequent schedules. From the bus stop, a taxi or a 20-minute walk over uneven ground is required to reach the lighthouse. Taxi fares vary but expect around £15–£25.
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
Maritime Heritage and Architectural Character
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse, constructed circa 1880, is a distinctive octagonal white cast-iron tower that commands attention along the rugged coastline of the Isle of Skye. Its design reflects the practical engineering of late 19th-century Scottish lighthouses, built to guide vessels navigating the narrow and often treacherous Kyle Rhea strait. The lighthouse stands near Kylerhea, a small settlement historically significant as a crossing point for cattle drovers and travelers moving between Skye and the Scottish mainland.The Strategic Importance of Kyle Rhea
The Kyle Rhea strait, just 550 meters wide at its narrowest, has been a vital maritime passage for centuries. It was traditionally used by drovers who swam cattle across to markets on the mainland, underscoring the area's agricultural and economic importance. The lighthouse played a crucial role in ensuring safe passage through these waters, which are known for strong tidal currents and shifting weather conditions. Nearby, the world’s last manually operated turntable ferry continues to connect Skye and Glenelg, preserving a unique piece of Highland transport history.Surrounding Landscape and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding seascape and coastline. The area is characterized by its tranquil natural beauty, with rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and the shimmering waters of the strait below. The lighthouse’s remote setting offers a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for photography, nature appreciation, and reflection on the maritime traditions that shaped this part of Scotland.Local History and Cultural Context
Kylerhea and the wider Isle of Skye are steeped in rich history, from ancient Celtic and Norse influences to clan heritage. The lighthouse itself is part of this cultural tapestry, symbolizing the region’s long-standing relationship with the sea. The nearby village of Kylerhea and the Glenelg area feature historic sites such as the Bernera Barracks, built to control the strategic crossing, adding depth to the visitor’s understanding of the locale’s past.Conservation and Modern Significance
Today, Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse is preserved as a historical landmark, reflecting Scotland’s commitment to maintaining its maritime heritage. While no longer operational as a navigational aid, it remains an iconic symbol of the Isle of Skye’s coastal identity. The lighthouse and its surroundings attract visitors seeking both natural beauty and a connection to Scotland’s nautical history.Accessibility and Seasonal Appeal
The lighthouse is accessible via a scenic, though narrow, road leading to Kylerhea. Its location near the ferry crossing makes it a compelling detour for travelers exploring the Isle of Skye’s eastern coast. The site is best visited in mild weather conditions to fully appreciate the views and outdoor environment, with winter months bringing harsher weather that can limit access and visibility.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
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Historic 19th-century octagonal lighthouse overlooking the narrow Kyle Rhea strait, offering stunning coastal views and maritime heritage on the Isle of Skye.
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Unmissable attractions to see
Caisteal Maol
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Leitir Fura
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Highland cow tours
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Strome Castle
15.1 km
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Loch Cill Chriosd
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Dunscaith Castle
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Essential places to dine
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The Legend of Saucy Mary Restaurant
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Taste of India, Kyleakin
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The Clachan
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Red Skye Restaurant
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Restaurant at the Duisdale
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Claymore Restaurant
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The Shellfish Shack
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Cafe Sia & Siaway
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North Harbour Bistro and Tearoom
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Lochcarron Bistro - Restaurant & Gift Shop
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The Shed
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The Chlachain Inn
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The Noost
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Cluanie Bar & Kitchen
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Skye Smithy
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Floraidh Skye
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scottishquality.com
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Nook & Cranny
14.5 km
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The Skye Gift Company
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The Treasure Hut
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Skye Antiques
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The Blue Skye gift co.
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Buzy Vee
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Bar Am Praban
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Gabbro Bar
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Nanny's
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The Auld Bridge Inn
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The Bar at Scorrybreac
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An Talla Mòr Eighteen Twenty
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Merchant Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Hotel Hebrides
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
