The Enchanting Fairy Pools of Isle of Skye
Discover the magical waterfalls and crystal-clear pools of Skye’s Fairy Pools, set beneath the dramatic Black Cuillin mountains.
Nestled in Glen Brittle on the Isle of Skye, the Fairy Pools are a mesmerizing series of crystal-clear waterfalls and aquamarine pools set against the dramatic backdrop of the Black Cuillin mountains. This accessible and well-maintained natural attraction offers a scenic, family-friendly walk along the River Brittle, with opportunities for photography, swimming, and immersion in the rugged Scottish Highlands. A modern car park with facilities supports sustainable tourism here.
A brief summary to Fairy Pools
- Isle of Skye, IV47 8TA, GB
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early or late in the day to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
- Bring waterproof footwear and insect repellent, especially in summer when midges are active.
- Use the free toilets at the car park before starting the walk, as there are none on the trail.
- Consider swimming in the pools if weather permits, but be cautious of cold water temperatures.
- Visit nearby Carbost for whisky tasting at Talisker Distillery and a meal at The Old Inn.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Portree, the Fairy Pools are approximately 20.5 miles away, a 30 to 40-minute journey via the B8009 and Glenbrittle road. The last section is a narrow single-track road with passing places, requiring careful driving and patience during busy periods. Parking is available at the large car park for a £6 daily fee, payable by card or cash.
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Bus and Taxi
During summer weekdays, a Stagecoach bus (route T54) runs from Portree to the Fairy Pools. Alternatively, take a CityLink bus from Inverness to Sligachan Bridge, then arrange a taxi for the remaining 10 miles. Bus services are limited and seasonal, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
For those staying nearby in Glenbrittle or Carbost, walking to the Fairy Pools is possible but involves navigating rural roads and uneven terrain. The main trail from the car park is an easy 2-kilometer walk along a gravel path with some steep sections and a stream crossing.
Fairy Pools 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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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Fairy Pools
Natural Beauty Carved by Water and Time
The Fairy Pools are a captivating collection of waterfalls and vivid blue pools formed by the River Brittle as it cascades from the Black Cuillin mountains. The water’s clarity and striking aquamarine hues create a magical atmosphere, especially on sunny days when sunlight illuminates the pools. These natural features lie within Glen Brittle, a valley renowned for its wild landscapes and panoramic views of the Cuillin ridge, making the pools a highlight of the Isle of Skye’s rugged scenery.A Walk Through a Highland Wonderland
The trail to the Fairy Pools is a well-maintained gravel path that gently winds along the river, crossing several footbridges and offering easy access for visitors of all ages and abilities. The walk begins just opposite the large car park, descending steeply at first before leveling out into a scenic riverside stroll. The full one-way distance to the furthest waterfall is about 2 kilometers (1.3 miles), typically taking around 40 minutes each way. The path includes a short steep rocky section and one stream crossing with stepping stones, adding a touch of adventure without being overly strenuous.Visitor Facilities and Sustainable Access
To accommodate the growing number of visitors, a spacious 120-space car park was developed in 2020 by the Minginish Community Hall Association and the Outdoor Access Trust for Scotland. This facility operates a one-way system and includes segregated areas for cars, camper vans, and mini buses, with a daily parking charge of £6 for cars. The car park also features free, clean off-grid toilets, ensuring comfort without impacting the environment. Parking fees support ongoing pathway maintenance and environmental restoration, helping to preserve the site’s natural charm.Seasonal Considerations and Wildlife
The Fairy Pools are open year-round, accessible 24 hours a day, allowing visitors to experience the pools in different light conditions—from the golden hues of sunrise and sunset to the moody skies typical of the Highlands. During summer months, midges—small biting insects—can be prevalent, so insect repellent is advisable. The pools themselves are popular for wild swimming, with many visitors bringing swimsuits to enjoy the refreshing waters amid stunning scenery.Local Culture and Nearby Attractions
The Fairy Pools lie near the village of Carbost, home to the famous Talisker Distillery, the only whisky distillery on Skye, offering tours and tastings. The Old Inn in Carbost provides a cozy spot for food and drink before or after visiting the pools. The surrounding Glen Brittle area is rich in Highland culture and folklore, enhancing the visitor experience with a sense of place and history.Planning Your Visit
Visitors should allow between one and two hours to fully enjoy the Fairy Pools walk. The trail is suitable for families and solo travelers alike, though it is not stroller accessible. Dogs are welcome, and the path’s wide sections allow safe passage even with children. The single-track road leading to the site requires patience during peak times due to passing places and increased visitor traffic. Early arrival or visiting outside peak hours can enhance the experience by avoiding crowds.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
22.3 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Iron age broch
22.6 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
28.0 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
35.7 km
Historic 19th-century octagonal lighthouse overlooking the narrow Kyle Rhea strait, offering stunning coastal views and maritime heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Neist Point Lighthouse
37.2 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
40.6 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
42.4 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Eilean Donan Castle
44.7 km
Discover Scotland’s most iconic castle set on a tranquil island where history, nature, and legend converge in breathtaking Highland scenery.
Old Ruins
47.9 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Tobermory Clock Tower
70.7 km
Historic granite clock tower memorializing local heritage, standing proudly by Tobermory’s colourful harbour on the Isle of Mull.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
71.2 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.
Caolas Gallery Harris Hebrides Photos
75.3 km
Discover the artistic heart of the Isle of Harris at Caolas Gallery, where stunning photography and local cuisine blend in a scenic setting.
Sound of Harris
75.6 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Hebrides People Visitor Centre
77.0 km
Explore the rich heritage of the Isle of Harris at the Hebrides People Visitor Centre, where history, genealogy, and local literature come alive.
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bruach Na Frithe junction cairn
3.1 km
Serene gateway to the Black Cuillin’s rugged peaks, offering accessible hiking and breathtaking Highland panoramas.
Glen Brittle Waterfalls
3.4 km
Turquoise pools and dramatic cascades beneath the Black Cuillin—Scotland's most enchanting mountain waterfalls.
Glenbrittle
4.9 km
Glenbrittle offers rugged mountain beauty and tranquil coastal charm at the foot of Skye’s iconic Cuillin Ridge.
Picnic bench
5.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Isle of Skye at the Picnic Bench, an idyllic spot for relaxation and breathtaking views.
Coire Lagan, Isle of Skye
5.0 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.
Sligachan Old Bridge
6.7 km
Historic 19th-century stone bridge with stunning Cuillin mountain views and legendary enchanted waters on the Isle of Skye.
Allt Dubh View Point
7.5 km
Discover breathtaking mountain and river views framed by a historic stone bridge at Allt Dubh View Point on the Isle of Skye.
Carbost Burn Waterfall
7.9 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Carbost Burn Waterfall, a serene and accessible natural cascade on the Isle of Skye.
Lou Lou Designs on Skye
8.1 km
Discover unique, handmade Harris Tweed handbags and accessories crafted with passion on the Isle of Skye’s scenic Carbostbeg.
Heath Falls
11.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Heath Falls, a hidden waterfall nestled in the wild landscapes of the Isle of Skye.
Talisker Bay Beach
12.5 km
Discover Talisker Bay Beach, where dramatic cliffs, a towering waterfall, and a sea stack meet the wild beauty of Skye’s west coast.
Talisker Bay Stack
12.8 km
Dramatic cliffs, wind-blown waterfall, and golden sands where Skye's wild spirit meets the Atlantic.
Talisker Waterfall
13.2 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.
View point LOCH AINORT
13.7 km
Discover breathtaking views of Loch Ainort and the Red Cuillin Mountains from this serene Isle of Skye viewpoint.
Ben Na Cro
13.7 km
A quiet Red Cuillin peak offering straightforward hillwalking, panoramic views, and genuine Highland solitude.
Essential places to dine
Seumas' Bar
6.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at Seumas' Bar on the Isle of Skye—where local flavors meet stunning views.
The Noost
11.3 km
Charming waterside takeaway café in Sconser offering superb coffee, homemade cakes, and scenic outdoor seating by the Raasay ferry terminal.
Gasta Port Righ
17.2 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
18.3 km
Intimate harbourfront seafood restaurant showcasing Skye's finest local catches with contemporary technique
Tianavaig Restaurant
18.5 km
A friendly, casual restaurant in Portree serving classic Scottish dishes with fresh local ingredients and warm hospitality.
Antlers Bar and Grill
18.5 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
18.5 km
Cozy cafe in Portree offering hearty local breakfast and lunch with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere on the Isle of Skye.
Cuchullin Restaurant
18.5 km
Experience the freshest Scottish seafood in the heart of Portree’s lively Somerled Square at Cuchullin Restaurant.
Scorrybreac Restaurant
18.5 km
Elegant small plates and innovative Scottish cuisine with a French twist, set above Portree harbour on the scenic Isle of Skye.
The View Restaurant
18.9 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
19.7 km
Exceptional seafood dining with stunning harbour views on the tranquil Isle of Scalpay, blending local flavors and warm hospitality.
Cafe Sia & Siaway
20.7 km
Charming island café serving fresh pizzas and quality coffee in a relaxed, friendly setting on the Isle of Skye.
The Shellfish Shack
21.9 km
Fresh, locally caught shellfish served with friendly smiles in a charming coastal shack on the Isle of Skye.
Claymore Restaurant
21.9 km
Cozy seafood dining with fresh local catches and warm hospitality in Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming coastal village.
Red Skye Restaurant
24.9 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
6.5 km
Discover authentic Highland scents and handmade gifts at Isle of Skye Aromatics in charming Carbost.
Carbost Community Shop
7.9 km
A welcoming community-run shop offering local and vegan delights in the heart of Carbost, Isle of Skye’s charming village life.
Anna Eastwood Jewellery
13.1 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
14.8 km
Discover stylish Scottish art and unique gifts inspired by the Isle of Skye’s stunning landscapes at Jazz Buchanan Creations in Elgol.
Skye Batiks
18.4 km
Discover vibrant Celtic batiks and handloomed textiles crafted with passion in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
Home in the Highlands Portree
18.4 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.
Isle of Skye Crafts @ Over the Rainbow
18.5 km
Discover authentic Isle of Skye crafts and unique handmade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant harbour town.
Isle of Skye Distillers
18.5 km
Discover the heart of Skye’s craft spirits with Misty Isle Gin, immersive gin-making, and a vibrant shop in Portree’s center.
Tippecanoe
18.5 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and fair-trade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant main street.
Cuillin Crafts
18.5 km
Authentic island craftsmanship and locally made treasures in the heart of Portree.
ÒR
18.5 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery inspired by Skye’s heritage at ÒR, a charming boutique in the heart of Portree.
Skye souvenirs
18.5 km
Authentic Isle of Skye souvenirs in a traditional black house setting, celebrating local craftsmanship and heritage in Portree.
Buzy Vee
20.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and quality sewing supplies in Broadford’s welcoming Buzy Vee gift shop.
The Blue Skye gift co.
21.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and enjoy great coffee in the heart of Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming local treasure.
Skye Antiques
21.2 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 Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse
8.1 km
Charming Scottish inn with stunning Loch Harport views, local cuisine, live traditional music, and cozy accommodation on the Isle of Skye.
The Auld Bridge Inn
14.9 km
A cozy Highland bar on Skye offering local drinks and scenic views, perfect for relaxing after exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.
An Talla Mòr Eighteen Twenty
18.4 km
Historic church-turned-pub in Portree offering local ales, live music, and authentic Scottish hospitality in a charming, lively setting.
West Highlands Bar
18.5 km
Cozy Highland pub in Portree offering local whiskies, Isle of Skye brews, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
Merchant Bar
18.5 km
Experience authentic Isle of Skye hospitality with local ales, fine whiskies, and hearty Highland fare in the cozy Merchant Bar of Portree.
The Isles Inn
18.5 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 Bar at Scorrybreac
18.5 km
An intimate cocktail and whisky bar with stunning Portree Harbour views, blending classic recipes with Hebridean flavors on the Isle of Skye.
Gabbro Bar
20.8 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
30.0 km
Cozy up with hearty Highland fare and fresh seafood in a welcoming pub setting on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Macnamara & Bothin Bar
30.0 km
A cozy bar in Ardvasar offering local whiskies, stunning Isle of Skye views, and warm Scottish hospitality in a rustic setting.
The King Haakon Bar
31.9 km
A lively Scottish pub in Kyleakin offering fresh seafood, malt whiskies, live traditional music, and stunning views of the Skye Bridge.
The Stein Inn
34.9 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
38.4 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
Nanny's
47.2 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
49.4 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
18.3 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
73.6 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
79.6 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
84.4 km
Experience Fort William’s vibrant nightlife at Roobarb, the welcoming nightclub where music and dancing light up weekend nights.
The Scaladale Centre
88.1 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
88.5 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
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Natural
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
- Sunrise Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
