Skye's Fairy Pools

The Fairy Pools are a chain of clear blue and green waterfalls and plunge pools on the River Brittle, at the foot of the Black Cuillin mountains near Glenbrittle on the Isle of Skye, Scotland. The water tumbles over a series of rock steps, and the pale pools, some deep enough for swimming, contrast with the dark peaks of Sgurr an Fheadain above. A signposted path of about 2.4 kilometres return leads from the car park at the end of the Glenbrittle road, crossing the river by stepping stones at a few points and rising gently. Most visitors take one to two hours, longer for photographs or a swim. The water is cold even in summer, around 10 degrees Celsius, and wild swimmers should check conditions, as the river rises quickly after rain and the stones can become impassable. The best photographs come from the first waterfalls near the upper part of the trail and from the arched natural rock bridge, with the Cuillin ridge behind. Light is best early in the morning or in the evening, when the car park is also quieter. The site has become popular since the 2010s, and the car park on the single-track road fills by mid-morning in summer, with queues of cars at the junction. A parking fee applies at the car park run by the local community, and toilets are provided. Midges are common from June to September, and sturdy footwear is essential because the path is muddy and slippery in places. The pools are free to visit and accessible all year, though winter brings short days, snow on the Cuillin and difficult driving. Glenbrittle also offers a campsite, a beach and trails into Coire Lagan for more experienced walkers.