
The Quiraing Isle of Skye
A dramatic geological wonderland on the Isle of Skye, offering challenging hikes through otherworldly landscapes and breathtaking vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light

The Quiraing Isle of Skye
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic geological wonderland on the Isle of Skye, offering challenging hikes through otherworldly landscapes and breathtaking vistas.
"The Quiraing is in our opinion the best hike on the Isle of Skye. "

🚗 Parking Patience
Arrive before 8:30 AM to guarantee a parking spot. The car park has a pay station.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Hiking boots are a must for the uneven and potentially slippery terrain.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Table
Central plateau
A flat, elevated area offering panoramic views of the surrounding dramatic rock formations and the sea beyond.

The Needle
Prominent rock pinnacle
An iconic, slender rock spire that stands tall against the Skye landscape, a photographer's dream.

The Prison
Natural rock enclosure
A unique geological feature resembling a natural fortress, adding to the otherworldly feel of the landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Patience
Arrive before 8:30 AM to guarantee a parking spot. The car park has a pay station.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Hiking boots are a must for the uneven and potentially slippery terrain.
🗺️ Know Your Route
It's an out-and-back with some offshoots, not a clear loop. Use a map or app.
🌦️ Embrace the Weather
Skye's weather is unpredictable; pack layers and waterproofs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience
Arrive before 8:30 AM to guarantee a parking spot. The car park has a pay station.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Hiking boots are a must for the uneven and potentially slippery terrain.
🗺️ Know Your Route
It's an out-and-back with some offshoots, not a clear loop. Use a map or app.
🌦️ Embrace the Weather
Skye's weather is unpredictable; pack layers and waterproofs.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is breathtaking, especially at golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about The Quiraing's unparalleled, otherworldly beauty, calling it a highlight of the Isle of Skye. The dramatic landscapes and hiking experience are consistently praised, though the challenging terrain and parking difficulties are noted drawbacks. Many recommend arriving early to fully enjoy the scenery without the crowds.
"We did not hike the entire 4 mile hill circuit, as we had plans on hiking The Storr later the same day. Looking back on it, I kind of wished we had hike all of this Scotland icon circuit. We only hiked the beginning section in which the trail is quite good. We experience a wee bit of scottish weather during our walk. The car park has a pay station. There are no public restrooms."
Mark E
"Incredible hiking. Get there early so you can get parking. We arrived around 8:30 am and had no trouble finding a spot. We got 3 hours of parking and made it back before it expired. If it’s a really nice day, pack a lunch and enjoy the gorgeous scenery. It’s a single track road for a portion of the way so be aware of oncoming traffic. When you pull over, flash your lights to signal to the other driver to go ahead. Be courteous on the roads."
Robert Ross
"My favorite hike on Skye. Fairly easy. Longer but less steep than Old Man of Stoor. Also more scenic, in my opinion. Comments mention a "loop", but it's an out-and-back trail with some offshoot that loop back into the main trail. No trail markers or anything, so make sure you know where you're going."
Jeffrey V
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Quiraing is located in the Trotternish Peninsula on the Isle of Skye. You'll need to drive there. The road is single-track for a portion, so drive cautiously and be mindful of oncoming traffic. Flashing your lights can signal to others to proceed. The nearest major town is Portree, about a 40-minute drive away.
The road is single-track and can be narrow with potholes. While doable in a regular car, drive slowly and be very aware of your surroundings. Many visitors find it manageable with caution.
Public transport options to The Quiraing are very limited. It's highly recommended to have your own vehicle or join a guided tour that includes this location.
Yes, there is a car park, but it fills up quickly. Arriving early, ideally before 8:30 AM, is crucial for securing a spot. There is a pay station for parking.
No, there are no public restrooms available at the car park. Plan accordingly before you arrive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to access and hike The Quiraing. The only cost is for parking.
The Quiraing is an outdoor natural landscape and is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
Hiking in the dark is not recommended due to the uneven terrain and potential for slippery conditions. While some may attempt it with headlamps to avoid crowds, it significantly increases the risk of injury.
Dogs are generally allowed on the trails at The Quiraing, but they must be kept on a lead, especially due to the presence of livestock and the steep drop-offs. Be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your dog.
Absolutely! The Quiraing is a must-see on any Isle of Skye itinerary and can easily be incorporated into a day trip, often combined with other Trotternish Peninsula sights like the Old Man of Storr.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The main trail is an out-and-back path with some offshoots that loop back. It's considered moderately difficult, with some steeper sections and areas requiring scrambling over rocks. Sturdy hiking boots are essential.
The full circuit can take around 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos. Some visitors opt for a shorter out-and-back hike to key viewpoints.
It's generally considered moderately difficult. While not as steep as the Old Man of Storr, it has challenging sections and requires good footing. It's not an easy stroll, but very rewarding.
The Table, The Needle, and The Prison are iconic formations offering spectacular views. The entire ridge provides breathtaking panoramas.
Wear sturdy hiking boots, waterproof trousers, and a waterproof jacket. Layers are recommended as the weather can change quickly.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the unique geological features are still impressive.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures. Don't forget extra batteries, as cold weather can drain them quickly.
The viewpoints overlooking The Table, The Needle, and the surrounding valleys are prime spots. The winding path itself also makes for compelling foreground interest in landscape shots.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current rules and guidelines for flying drones in national scenic areas in Scotland. Always fly responsibly and respect the environment.
The dramatic, otherworldly landscape, sculpted by landslips, offers unique geological formations and sweeping vistas. It's often compared to scenes from fantasy films.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider hiking only a portion of the trail to a key viewpoint like 'The Table' if a full circuit seems too ambitious. The sheer scale and dramatic scenery will captivate children, offering a real sense of exploration. It's an opportunity to inspire a love for nature and adventure. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and make it a memorable family outing.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To save money, pack your own picnic lunch and snacks. This allows you to fully enjoy the stunning views without needing to find and pay for a cafe. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) for potentially lower accommodation prices on the Isle of Skye, though the weather can be more unpredictable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Quiraing's Dramatic Geology
The hike itself takes you through this fascinating landscape, offering close-up views of formations like 'The Table,' a flat plateau, 'The Needle,' a tall rock spire, and 'The Prison,' a natural rock enclosure. The constantly shifting ground means the landscape is always evolving, adding to its wild and untamed beauty. Experiencing this dynamic environment firsthand is a highlight for many visitors.
Understanding the geological forces at play enhances the appreciation of the Quiraing's rugged beauty. It's a testament to the powerful natural processes that have shaped Scotland's iconic scenery. The sheer scale and unique formations make it a photographer's paradise and a hiker's dream.
Navigating the Quiraing Trails
While the hike is rewarding, it's not for the faint of heart or those seeking a casual stroll. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are non-negotiable due to the uneven and often slippery terrain, especially after rain. The descent can be particularly challenging, with one TikTok creator humorously noting they ended up sliding down on their rear!
For those who complete the full circuit, the effort is rewarded with ever-changing, breathtaking vistas. The trail offers a sense of adventure and immersion in the raw beauty of the Isle of Skye. It's an experience that truly connects you with the wild Scottish landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit