What is the Quiraing?
The Quiraing is a landslip on the eastern face of the northernmost summit of the Trotternish on the Isle of Skye, Scotland. The whole of the Trotternish Ridge escarpment was formed by a great series of landslips; the Quiraing is the only part of the slip still moving—the road at its base, near Flodigarry, requires repairs each year!
This is an essential stop in Skye if you like landscapes and photography, here you will find some of the most remarkable scenery in all of Scotland.
At the Quiraing you will see high cliffs, hidden plateaus and rock pinnacles.
Getting there
From Sligachan campsite it is a 28-mile drive (50 minutes) and from Portree it is 19 miles (35 minutes’ drive)
The road is single track most of the way with ‘passing places’ to allow oncoming cars to pass. The narrow roads can be congested in the busy summer months, so be prepared for a slow drive.
Parking
The road will start winding up a large hill (if coming from Staffin) and cars will be parked on the sides, but there is a main car park and several other car parks and laybys, you may just need to drive further along the road to find a space.
How long
From the car park you will already see the impressive views, you can take a short walk along the footpath which offers spellbinding views, or you can hike up to 4 ½ miles, taking around 2 hours, where you will climb up and over the pinnacles. The hike should only be done in clear conditions for safety, the rocks could be slippy and there could be low visibility.
What to wear
We happened to have our wellies on, which was good as it had been raining the day before and there was muddy patches. If hiking, we suggest wearing hiking boots. Also wear warm clothes as there could be wind sheer
When to go / weather
The weather can be unpredictable, in any season, although the views look gorgeous in any weather conditions. Note that the hike won’t be suitable in all weather conditions such as wind and mist.
If you can visit before or after the day trippers are there that would make the car park quieter and also less people around. (Avoid 10am- 4pm)
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