Sligachan Old Bridge Isle of Skye
Iconic stone bridge on Skye, famed for its dramatic Cuillin backdrop and a legendary fairy dip.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warmer waters for the legend
Sligachan Old Bridge Isle of Skye
Best Time
Warmer waters for the legend
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic stone bridge on Skye, famed for its dramatic Cuillin backdrop and a legendary fairy dip.
"A wonderful structure, standing the passing of time and the passing of many, many generations over it."
💧 Try the Fairy Dip!
Legend says 7 seconds in the river grants eternal beauty. Brave it in summer!
🚗 Easy Access & Parking
Convenient parking available, making it a great, accessible stop on your Skye tour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sligachan Old Bridge
Sligachan
An iconic stone bridge with dramatic Cuillin Hills backdrop. A must-see on Skye!
The Fairy Legend
Sligachan River
Dip your face in the river for 7 seconds and legend says fairies grant eternal beauty!
Cuillin Hills Vista
Near the bridge
Majestic mountain views that change with the Skye weather. Breathtaking!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Legend
+1Timing is Key for Views
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Try the Fairy Dip!
Legend says 7 seconds in the river grants eternal beauty. Brave it in summer!
🚗 Easy Access & Parking
Convenient parking available, making it a great, accessible stop on your Skye tour.
📸 Capture the Mood
Skye's weather is dramatic! Embrace moody skies for stunning photos.
⏳ Stay Longer Than Planned
You might plan a quick stop, but the beauty can make you linger for hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Try the Fairy Dip!
Legend says 7 seconds in the river grants eternal beauty. Brave it in summer!
🚗 Easy Access & Parking
Convenient parking available, making it a great, accessible stop on your Skye tour.
📸 Capture the Mood
Skye's weather is dramatic! Embrace moody skies for stunning photos.
⏳ Stay Longer Than Planned
You might plan a quick stop, but the beauty can make you linger for hours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Sligachan Old Bridge for its stunning natural beauty, iconic architecture, and the enchanting fairy legend. It's a highly accessible and picturesque stop on the Isle of Skye, offering a peaceful atmosphere and impressive views of the Cuillin Hills. Some find it slightly over-rated, but most agree it's a worthwhile and memorable experience.
"Nice views and a peaceful atmosphere. When it rains, the river gets quite strong — impressive to watch. Easy to walk around the area, and there’s parking available nearby. Great spot for a short scenic stop."
Zhang Bo
"While a bit over-rated, I'd admit, this is a wonderful structure, standing the passing of time and the passing of many, many generations over it. It definitely has that feel of old and the romanticism of the bridges of long passed times. Stone, as a building material, does impregnate the structures with a sort of lasting beauty and ever engaging interest!"
Radu Dumitru Nica
"Beautiful old bridge, with a lovely river below. River was very refreshing to take a dip on a warm day. We were only going to stop for 5 minutes, ended up staying 2.5 hours as it was so nice 👌"
Matthew Barrett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sligachan Old Bridge is easily accessible by car, located just off the A87 road, a main route through Skye. There is parking available nearby, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the island.
While not directly on the main NC500 loop, the Sligachan Old Bridge is a popular detour for those traveling through the Highlands and Isle of Skye, often included in extended itineraries.
Public transport options to Sligachan are limited. It's best visited with a car or as part of an organized tour that includes stops on the Isle of Skye.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Sligachan Old Bridge and its surrounding area is completely free. It's a public access point for enjoying the scenery and legends.
The Sligachan Old Bridge is an outdoor landmark and is accessible at any time, day or night. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best views and safety.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, especially with the dramatic Cuillin Hills in the background. However, Skye's weather is unpredictable, so any time can offer unique, moody shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the bridge and the expansive landscape. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and water.
The area around the bridge offers multiple vantage points. Experiment with different angles, including from the riverbanks, to get the best composition with the Cuillin Mountains.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Legend has it that if you submerge your face in the waters of the Sligachan River beneath the old bridge for seven seconds and let it air dry, the fairies will bless you with eternal beauty. +1
While many visitors do, the river can be cold and fast-flowing, especially after rain. Exercise caution and be aware of the water conditions. Summer is generally more pleasant for this tradition.
Most visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour here, taking photos and experiencing the legend. However, some find the atmosphere so captivating they stay for much longer.
The area around the bridge is generally easy to walk around. You can access the riverbanks for different perspectives. Wear sturdy shoes, especially if exploring off the main path.
Built between 1810 and 1818 by Thomas Telford, this three-arched stone bridge was a crucial part of the main route through Skye before being replaced by a modern bridge.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The area is safe for gentle exploration around the bridge and riverbanks, with plenty of space for little ones to move around. Parking is convenient, making it a stress-free addition to your Isle of Skye itinerary. Remember to pack extra dry clothes if you plan on attempting the fairy dip!📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
+1 Embrace the moody Skye weather; overcast skies and mist can create incredibly atmospheric shots. +1🚶♀️ History Buffs & Legend Seekers
+1 Its role as a former main route on Skye adds to its historical significance. For those drawn to folklore, the 'fairy dip' legend offers a unique cultural experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Legend of the Sligachan River
+1 This tradition is a popular draw for visitors, particularly during the warmer summer months when the water is less daunting. Many travelers share their experiences of this unique ritual, adding a touch of magic to their Isle of Skye adventure. While the legend adds a whimsical element, the river itself is a powerful force of nature. As one reviewer noted, 'When it rains, the river gets quite strong — impressive to watch.'
Capturing the Iconic Sligachan Old Bridge
Many visitors find that the best shots come when embracing Skye's famously changeable weather. 'On a cloudy, foggy day it would not look out of place for a troll to crawl out from underneath,' one visitor remarked, capturing the mystical atmosphere. +1For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' of sunrise or sunset, when the light can cast a warm glow on the bridge and mountains.
However, even on a grey, overcast day, the stark beauty of the scene can be incredibly compelling. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the grandeur of the bridge in relation to the vastness of the surrounding landscape. Don't be afraid to experiment with different angles, perhaps from the riverbanks, to find your unique perspective on this iconic Skye landmark. Historical Significance and Engineering
+1 Its robust design and enduring structure have allowed it to stand the test of time, becoming a beloved historical landmark. The bridge's humpback design is characteristic of many of Telford's constructions, built to withstand the elements and the demands of travel in rugged terrain. While a modern bridge now carries the main A87 traffic, the old bridge remains a focal point for visitors, offering a tangible connection to Skye's past. Its presence evokes a sense of history and romance, reminding visitors of the generations who have crossed its path.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit