Neist Point Light House, Isle of Skye

Lighthouse, Viewing Point and Walk near Isle of Skye

Neist Point Lighthouse Calm Day
Neist Point Lighthouse Calm Day
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Lionel Ulmer

Neist Point Lighthouse stands proudly on the most westerly tip of the Isle of Skye, offering sweeping views across the Minch toward the Outer Hebrides. Perched on towering cliffs in the Durinish area, it is one of the top sights in the Isle of Skye and a favourite location for landscape photographers, especially at sunset when the scene glows with warm Atlantic light. Designed by David Alan Stevenson and first lit in 1909, the lighthouse remains one of Skye's most iconic landmarks.

The walk from the car park takes visitors across rugged coastal scenery, revealing the lighthouse gradually as you descend and climb along the headland. With cinematic history including scenes from Breaking The Waves and 47 Ronin, Neist Point feels both remote and dramatic. Whether you come for the views, the wildlife, or the sense of standing at the edge of the island, this spot is one of the best places to see in the Isle of Skye.

History and Significance of Neist Point Lighthouse

Neist Point Lighthouse was designed by David Alan Stevenson of the famous Stevenson engineering family, responsible for many Scottish lighthouses. Lit for the first time on 1 November 1909, it served as an essential guide for vessels navigating the waters between Skye and the Outer Hebrides. An aerial cableway system, still visible today, was built to transport fuel and supplies down to the lighthouse buildings.

While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the surrounding landscape offers a rich sense of maritime history. From fishing boats to whale sightings, these waters have always been busy. The lighthouse cottage complex and the old jetty below bear witness to a time when supplies arrived by boat rather than road.

The dramatic cliffs of Neist Point also attracted filmmakers, with the site featured in Breaking The Waves and 47 Ronin. Its cinematic appeal only adds to its reputation as one of the must-see places in the Isle of Skye for visitors drawn to rugged scenery and wild coastlines.

Things to See and Do in Neist Point Lighthouse

Begin your visit with the classic Neist Point walk. From the car park, the trail descends steeply down a concrete staircase before levelling out along the cliff edge. This initial descent gives early views of the sea and rocky coastline.

As you climb the next rise, the lighthouse appears in full view on the right, while the old jetty lies to your left. This point offers superb photography opportunities, with the cliffs falling away dramatically and seabirds soaring overhead. Continue along the path to reach the lighthouse compound, where a field of small stone towers-built by visiting walkers-adds an unexpected charm.

Wildlife lovers will enjoy scanning the sea from the rocks around the lighthouse. In summer, whales, dolphins, and even basking sharks are sometimes spotted. Anglers also visit this point to fish for pollock in the deep waters below the cliffs.

How to Get to Neist Point Lighthouse

Neist Point is accessed via a single-track road near Glendale on Skye's west coast. The nearest major airport is Inverness Airport, offering routes into the Highlands before continuing onward to Skye. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Isle of Skye on Booking.com.

Visitors can reach the Isle of Skye by train via services to Kyle of Lochalsh, then cross the Skye Bridge by bus or car en route to Glendale. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Driving is the most convenient way to reach Neist Point. The journey from Dunvegan is around 10.5 miles, with a small car park at the road's end that fills quickly during busy periods. Additional roadside spaces are available further back along the access road.

Practical Tips on Visiting Neist Point Lighthouse

  • Suggested tips: Wear sturdy footwear; the path includes steep steps and uneven surfaces.
  • Best time to visit: Late afternoon for sunset photography and calmer crowds.
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: Always accessible.
  • Official website: Check VisitScotland for current access and parking details.
  • How long to spend: 1.5 to 2 hours to enjoy the full walk and lighthouse views.
  • Accessibility: Steep stairs and slopes make this unsuitable for limited mobility.
  • Facilities: No toilets at the site; nearest facilities are in Glendale or Dunvegan.
  • Photography tip: Sunset offers golden light on the lighthouse and cliffs.
  • Guided tours: Typically visited independently; no guided access to the lighthouse buildings.
  • Nearby food options: Glendale and Dunvegan both offer cafes and restaurants for pre- or post-visit meals.

Where to Stay close to Neist Point Lighthouse

Dunvegan is the best nearby base, offering accommodation close to the western cliffs of Skye. A comfortable option is The Dunvegan Hotel, placing you near shops and restaurants. For a more rural stay, consider The Millcroft, just a short drive from the car park. Another pleasant choice is The Kinloch Hotel, ideal for exploring Skye’s western attractions.

Is Neist Point Lighthouse Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Neist Point is one of Skye's most dramatic coastal viewpoints, offering unforgettable views, rich maritime history, and superb photography opportunities. Its combination of cliffs, lighthouse scenery, and Atlantic horizons makes it one of the things to do in the Isle of Skye for any visitor seeking the island's wilder edges.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.8 (3,445)

Neist Point Lighthouse on the Isle of Skye sits unmanned on a rocky cliff-top overlooking a causeway and sweeping coastline; visitors praise the dramatic, unforgettable sea views and wildlife sightings, but warn the approach involves a winding single-track drive and a fairly steep, sometimes long path with steps and railings that can be exposed to strong winds, and there are no on-site amenities or toilets so plan ahead.

Sophie
2 weeks ago
"Absolutely beautiful views. It will be very windy so be prepared as some of the railings had fallen down when we visited. We walked all the way downto the lighthouse and back and it took about 40 minutes to an hour. There are no amenities and the drive is about 25 minutes from the nearest village with amenities...."
Anas Shaikh
4 months ago
"A Breath-Taking Finale at the Edge of Skye My visit to Neist Point Lighthouse on the Isle of Skye was nothing short of spectacular—a dramatic blendof rugged beauty, stirring landscapes, and raw maritime energy that leaves a lasting impression. The journey there itself sets the tone: a winding, single-track road with passing places, weaving through remote countryside before arriving at a modest car park perched near soaring cliffs. From the drop-off, a steep but well-constructed concrete path—with railings in trickier sections—descends to the lighthouse. The descent is fairly straightforward, but the climb back up requires a bit of fitness. Once you reach the lighthouse, you’re greeted by an incredible panorama: jagged cliffs tumbling into mesmerizing blue waters, stone cairns left by visitors, and haunting remnants of old winching gear from a bygone era. The lighthouse itself—built in 1900 and now automated—stands as a stoic sentinel overlooking the Atlantic. Wildlife lovers are in for a treat. I was lucky enough to spot dolphins offshore, and it’s common to see whales, basking sharks, and countless seabirds in the summer. Highlights: Unforgettable vistas from every angle. Dramatic atmosphere, especially at sunset. Historical charm with the lighthouse and old maritime gear. Possibility of spotting dolphins, whales, or seabirds. Things to Note: The walk is short (about 2 km return) but steep in places. No toilets, cafés, or water facilities—plan ahead. Parking can get crowded in peak season. The lighthouse buildings are not open to the public. In summary, Neist Point Lighthouse is a must-visit highlight on the Isle of Skye—a place that’s equal parts dramatic, beautiful, and wild. Bring sturdy shoes, weather gear, and a spirit of adventure, and you’ll be rewarded with one of the most unforgettable views in Scotland...."
Kathleen Leong
3 months ago
"It's a must do in isle of skye as it has the most beautiful scenery of the sea and the lighthouse. Parking is free. No toilet though. But beforewarned that its a long winding path up and down steps and some parts a bit steep to walk to the lighthouse. Along the way watch out for sheep poop on the pathway...."

FAQs for Visiting Neist Point Lighthouse

Around 1 to 1.5 hours return, depending on pace and photo stops.
It includes steep stairs and some steep sections but is manageable for most visitors.
No, the lighthouse itself is closed to the public.
Yes, but the car park is small and fills quickly; additional roadside parking is sometimes used.

Nearby Attractions to Neist Point Lighthouse

  • Dunvegan Castle - The home of Clan MacLeod with gardens overlooking Loch Dunvegan.
  • Coral Beach - A bright, shell-sand beach with clear water and beautiful views.
  • Glendale - A peaceful village and starting point for scenic coastal drives.
  • Waterstein Head - Dramatic cliffs offering a spectacular viewpoint over the Atlantic.
  • Neist Cliff Viewpoint - A superb elevated viewpoint reached along the walking trail.

The Neist Point Light House 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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Isle of Skye: 38 km

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