Fairy Pools of Skye, Isle of Skye

Natural Phenomenon, Pool and Walk in Isle of Skye

The Fairy Pools Skye. Underwater Arch
The Fairy Pools Skye. Underwater Arch
CC BY-SA 2.0 / gailhampshire

The Fairy Pools in Glenbrittle are among Skye's most enchanting natural sights, where crystal-clear cascades flow down from the Black Cuillins into a chain of vivid blue and green pools. Fed by mountain spring water from Allt Coir' a' Mhadaidh, these beautifully carved pools sit at the foot of one of Scotland's most dramatic mountain ranges, making them one of the top sights in the Isle of Skye for nature lovers and photographers.

The setting feels both wild and otherworldly. Legends tell of fairy princesses, selkies, and ancient folklore tied to this landscape, adding a layer of myth to its already magical appearance. Whether you come to admire the waterfalls, take a brisk dip, or simply walk alongside the burn toward the mountains, the Fairy Pools offer a deeply memorable experience.

History and Significance of the Fairy Pools of Skye

The Fairy Pools lie along a burn that drains a vast corrie of the Black Cuillins, one of Scotland’s most formidable mountain ranges. The pools were carved over time by rushing water cutting through volcanic rock, creating smooth basins and natural waterfalls.

Myth and history sit side by side here. According to Skye folklore, these pools were frequented by fairies connected to the Clan MacLeod, after a chief married a fairy princess. Another tale speaks of selkies who shed their seal skins to bathe in the pools under full moonlight. Such myths helped give this part of Glenbrittle its many fairy-related names.

More grimly, the nearby burn was said to have run red after the Battle of Coire na Creiche, the last and bloodiest clan battle between the MacLeods of Dunvegan and the MacDonalds of Sleat. The Crown eventually intervened, forcing peace between the feuding clans. These stories give the pools a sense of depth and cultural importance beyond their aesthetic beauty.

Things to See and Do in the Fairy Pools of Skye

Start your visit with the short but scenic walk from the car park toward the foot of the Cuillins. The first river crossing sets the tone with stepping stones leading you across fast-flowing water. As you continue along the gravel path, the surrounding moorland opens up with impressive views of the mountains.

The first major waterfall marks the beginning of the Fairy Pools. This deep, clear pool is one of the most photographed on Skye and offers a striking introduction to the area. From here, you can follow the burn upwards, discovering a series of pools, each with its own shape and personality. One of the best known features a natural underwater arch, inviting adventurous swimmers to try a quick, chilly passage.

Even without swimming, the colours, clarity, and mountain backdrop make this spot one of the must-see places in the Isle of Skye. On sunny days, the greens and blues of the pools light up dramatically, and the distinctive pyramid of Sgùrr an Fheadain adds to the spectacular landscape.

How to Get to the Fairy Pools of Skye

The Fairy Pools are reached via a single-track road from Carbost to Glenbrittle, with a dedicated gravel car park signposted Glumagan Na Sithichean. The nearest major airport is Inverness Airport, which offers convenient routes into the Highlands before driving onward to Skye. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Isle of Skye on Booking.com.

Train services run to Kyle of Lochalsh on the mainland, from where visitors can cross the Skye Bridge by bus or car to reach Carbost and Glenbrittle. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Driving is the easiest and most direct way to reach the Fairy Pools, with the car park located around 10 minutes from Carbost and roughly 30 minutes from Portree. The route is straightforward and well signposted.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Fairy Pools of Skye

  • Suggested tips: Bring waterproof hiking shoes; paths can be muddy and river crossings involve stepping stones.
  • Best time to visit: Early mornings or evenings to avoid peak crowds, especially in summer.
  • Entrance fee: Parking charges apply; visiting the pools is free.
  • Opening hours: Always accessible.
  • Official website: Refer to the Outdoor Access Trust for Scotland for updates.
  • How long to spend: 1 to 2 hours depending on how far along the burn you explore.
  • Accessibility: The walk includes uneven ground, steep sections, and river crossings; not suitable for limited mobility.
  • Facilities: WC available at Glenbrittle Campsite & Cafe near Loch Brittle.
  • Photography tip: Sunny days bring out the vibrant blues and greens of the pools.
  • Guided tours: Local operators occasionally include the Fairy Pools in Skye day trips.
  • Nearby food options: Carbost offers cafes and pubs, including those near the Talisker Distillery.

Where to Stay close to the Fairy Pools of Skye

The Glenbrittle area offers ideal access, with options like Glenbrittle House providing proximity to the Cuillins and the pools. Carbost is another convenient base, and The Old Inn offers cosy accommodation near the Talisker Distillery. For those wanting to stay closer to Skye’s main hub, The Portree Hotel combines comfort with a manageable drive to the Fairy Pools.

Is the Fairy Pools of Skye Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Fairy Pools are absolutely worth visiting. Their blend of pristine water, dramatic mountain scenery, and evocative folklore creates one of Skye's most magical landscapes. Whether you are hiking, photographing, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, this is one of the best places to visit in the Isle of Skye for experiencing the island's rugged natural beauty.

FAQs for Visiting the Fairy Pools of Skye

How long is the walk to the Fairy Pools?
It takes around 20 minutes to reach the first major waterfall, with a 2.4km round trip in total.

Are the Fairy Pools suitable for swimming?
Yes, but the water is extremely cold even in summer; caution is advised.

Is the path difficult?
The route is moderate, with river crossings and sometimes muddy terrain.

Is there parking at the Fairy Pools?
Yes, a designated gravel car park is available, though it can fill in peak season.

Walking to the Fairy Pools of Skye

The gravel path starts on the opposite side of the road towards the burn, known as Allt Coir’ a’ Mhadaidh. Ignore an early fork to the left and continue strenuously uphill on the footpath as it runs alongside the lively burn for 1.5 miles (2.4km). A dip in Fairy Pools is extremely refreshing, if a bit chilly, even in the summer months. To attempt a submersion in winter requires considerable bravery, or foolishness. On a sunny day, the pools’ bright greens and blues are at their very best, lit up to create a magical realm. An underwater arch graces one pool, while higher up, the pyramidal pinnacle of Sgùrr an Fheadain draws the eye.

From the carpark there are impressive views out towards the Black Cuillins, the source of the River Brittle. This short walk to the pools follows a gravel path that is in good condition most of the way, but does involve river crossings over stepping stones.

Make sure your look through the Walk SlideShow, as it give a step by step account of what you will encounter.

Fairy Pools of Skye Hike: Stage 1 – First River Crossing

From the carpark cross the public road to find the start of the gravel path. There is a small green sign confirming the start, labelled ‘Sligaghan’. Initially as the path leaves the road you descend steeply for a few meters are about the worst but it then levels off. The whole path can be muddy in on a wet day. After about 50 meters from the road the path splits, take the right hand option to continue down the hill. A little bit further on you will reach your first river, which has large stepping stone to help you cross. Once across follow the gravel path.

Fairy Pools of Skye Hike: Stage 2 – Peat Moor

The path levels out as you crosses the peat moor. Along the path you will pass a large boulder that was left ar the end of the last ‘ice age’. The path gently slopes up to meet the main River Brittle which will remain on your right. There continue to be small steams and ditches to cross, but nothing too challenging!

Fairy Pools of Skye Hike: Stage 3 – Second River Crossing

You will now come to a second river crossing but again there are large stepping stone to help you over. Beyond the river the path rises up with some rough rock natural steps, until you come to your  first waterfall. Follow the gravel path on until you become adjacent to the fall.

Fairy Pools of Skye Hike: Stage 4 – The First Waterfall

This first Waterfall marks the start of the magical pools. This first waterfall is the highest fall and deepest pool.  You can continue to work your way up the river and explore all the pools. Some of the pools are great for swimming in, but are often very cold!  The next pool up is properly the most famous, a beautifully clear blue pool idea for swimming. It features a natural arch, offering an exhilarating under water swim though the arch.

Fairy Pools of Skye Hike: Stage 5 – The Return

The return; use the same path back. From the first waterfall it takes about 20 minutes to get back to the carpark.

Nearby Attractions to the Fairy Pools of Skye

  • Glenbrittle Beach - A wide sandy bay with stunning mountain views.
  • Talisker Distillery - Skye’s famous whisky distillery in Carbost.
  • Cuillin Mountains - Offering world-class hiking and scrambling routes.
  • Fairy Glen - Another enchanting landscape of grassy cones and rock formations near Uig.
  • Loch Brittle - A scenic coastal area perfect for picnics and photography.

The Fairy Pools of Skye appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Isle of Skye!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Visiting Fairy Pools of Skye

Hours:

24 Hour

Address: Fairy Pools, Glenbrittle, Isle of Skye, UK
Isle of Skye: 4 km

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