Fairy Glen
Bail nan cnoc
The Fairy Glen, located in the hills of Uig on the Isle of Skye, is an enchanting miniature landscape known for its unique geographical formations and a reputation for myth and wonder. Described as a mini-Quiraing, this magical feature was formed by post-Glacier landslides and erosion, creating cone-shaped hillocks, tranquil lochans, and a basalt castle-like outcrop.

📜 An enchanting miniature landscape on the Isle of Skye, known for its unique geological formations.
✨ A place steeped in myth and wonder, formed by ancient landslides and erosion.

Why Go

🏞️ Explore a magical landscape of cone-shaped hillocks, tranquil lochans, and a basalt castle-like outcrop.
🚶‍♀️ Enjoy a circuitous walk covering most of the area, with stunning views across Glen Conon.
📸 Perfect for nature photography, capturing the unusual patterns and gnarled rowan trees.
🧚 Experience a unique natural landmark often associated with folklore.

Why Avoid

⚠️ Ground can be very muddy and wet, especially in winter months – suitable footwear is essential.
🚧 Some paths are steep and gravelly, with a last-minute scramble to Castle Ewen, requiring care in wet or icy weather.
🚫 No toilets on site; nearest facilities are in Uig.
🐕 Livestock roam freely, so dogs must be kept on leads.

Getting There

🚗 Located just south of Uig, along the 80km Trotternish loop in Skye’s far north east.
🚌 Bus services (57 or Citylink 915 from Portree) are infrequent; nearest bus stop is 1.5km away.
🗺️ Follow the narrow winding road for 1.5 miles to the Fairy Glen car park from the A87 turn-off.

Parking

🅿️ Car park available with overspill on the side of the road in marked lanes.
💰 Parking fees: £2 for 2 hours, £3 for 4 hours (card and coins accepted).
⏰ Advised to visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid busier times; parking is limited.
🚫 No fee for entering the Glen itself.

The Walk

🚶‍♀️ A 1.5km (1 mile) circuit from the car park, or 5.8km (3.6 miles) from the A87 turn-off, taking 1 hour or more.
⬆️ Stage 1: Follow the road past a picturesque lochan towards a turning area for views across Glen Conon.
⛰️ Stage 2: Head towards Castle Ewen, a natural basalt outcrop resembling a crumbling medieval fortress.
🚫 Stage 2: Avoid creating stone spirals; this practice is not advised as it causes unnatural erosion.
🌳 Stage 3: Explore the Glen, sticking to designated paths and avoiding cordoned-off areas to prevent environmental erosion.
↩️ Stage 4: Follow the path leading out of the Glen back to the car park, enjoying views of the Fairy Glen behind you.

Important Notes

🗑️ Remember to take all dog waste and rubbish home with you.
💧 Carry waterproofs, even on a good day, due to potentially muddy and wet ground.

Tags
outdoornaturehikingscenicmythologygeologicalIsle of SkyeScotlandnatural landmarkwalk