The Quiraing is the wildest scenery on Skye's Trotternish peninsula, a huge landslip that has left high cliffs, secret grassy plateaus and spires of rock tumbling down to the sea. The most popular route is a 6.8 km loop from the car park at the highest point of the single-track road between Staffin and Uig. The island's walking guide rates it as hard, suggests about two hours at an average pace without stops and says plainly that the walk is unsuitable in all weather, particularly windy or misty conditions, because of the high cliffs. The path crosses steep slopes and runs beneath the Prison and the Needle, two of the best-known rock features, before reaching a gully and returning along the ridge. In winter the route is empty and dramatic, but cold, wet and potentially dangerous in poor weather, so conditions decide everything.
The setting
The car park is about 2.5 miles from Staffin and 5.5 miles from Uig, around 21 miles and half an hour from Portree. It holds about a hundred cars and fills quickly in midsummer, although in November it is rarely a problem. Parking costs a few pounds for up to three or six hours, paid by coins or contactless card, and parking on the verge is prohibited because the soft peat can trap cars. The single-track road itself is steep, narrow and often misty, so drive slowly and use the passing places properly.
Walking it safely
The route is not long, but the first section is a narrow path across a steep slope, and later parts are rough and boggy. Stay on the path, keep well back from cliff edges and do not go out in strong wind. Good boots with grip, waterproofs, gloves and a hat are essential in winter, and a map or a downloaded route is wise because cloud can hide the landmarks.
Daylight is short in November and December, so start early. If the weather is poor, the view from the car park and the lay-bys is still impressive, and you lose nothing by waiting for a better day.
Putting it in context
The Quiraing is the natural end of a northern Skye loop that takes in the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and Staffin, with Portree as the base. Tours from Inverness often stop here only briefly for photographs, so walkers will get more from a self-drive or a hiking-focused tour.
If the high route is closed to you by weather, spend the time in Staffin or return to Portree. The area is also good for photography at low sun, when long shadows pick out the pinnacles, and for a short out-and-back stroll if you do not want the full loop.
What to expect
The experience
A 6.8 km loop walk from the high car park on the Staffin to Uig road, crossing steep slopes beneath the Prison and the Needle.
Best time
A calm, clear winter day with good visibility, starting early so you finish before the light fades.
How long
About two hours at an average pace without stops, closer to three with photographs.
Tips
Do not attempt it in wind or mist, wear boots and waterproofs, keep off the cliff edges and never park on the verge.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Confident walkers and photographers who want Skye's most dramatic rock scenery.
- Families
- Not ideal for young children because of the steep slopes and cliffs, but the car park viewpoints are easy for everyone.
- Couples
- A crisp, still morning walk, then lunch in Staffin or back in Portree.
- Pair with
- The Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and Portree on the same loop.
- Time needed
- Half a day including the drive from Portree.
Good questions
How hard is the Quiraing walk?+
The island's walking guide rates it as hard, with a narrow path over steep slopes and rough ground. It is a 6.8 km loop of around two hours.
Can I walk the Quiraing in winter?+
Only in good conditions. The guide says it is unsuitable in all weather, particularly wind or mist, because of the high cliffs.
Where do I park?+
At the car park on the highest point of the Staffin to Uig road. There is a charge, and parking on the verge is not allowed.
How far is it from Portree?+
About 21 miles, roughly half an hour by car on a mix of main and single-track road.
Is there a shorter option?+
Yes, you can walk out along the first section of path for the views and turn back, which avoids the harder parts of the loop.
