The Fairy Glen

Tourist attraction · Highland

1

@atlasobscura

"The Fairy Glen is one of the Isle of Skye’s most enchanting attractions. The bumpy, off-the-beaten-path spot stands out from the surrounding farmland. The natural rock formations, cone-shaped hills dotted with ponds and scattered waterfalls, are all within one small area, making it seem as though it’s the shrunken version of a large-scale geological wonder. Though there’s no definitive folklore linking the land to the magical realm, some say faeries created the dramatic landscape and still dwell within its many crevices. It’s no wonder; the whimsical otherworldly landscape looks just like the kind of place you’d expect to find mythical creatures. The Isle of Skye is, after all, rich with faerie lore. However, the unique geological formations are actually the result of a landslip, similar to the one that created the nearby Quiraing.  It’s easy to spend a morning or afternoon wandering among the cluster of hills. The grassy glen’s natural colors are especially vivid on a sunny day. Visitors can take their time climbing the mounds or snapping photos of the stone designs tourists tend to create (though they’re not nearly as impressive as the more permanent rock spiral). The best vantage point is from the top of Castle Ewan, the natural rock formation that resembles an ancient ruin. A steep, narrow trail leads directly to the top, but it does involve a bit of scrambling. The locals consider the stone designs created by tourists to be vandalism and spend the winter undoing them each year. Since the glens are on private property, it’s appropriate to respect the wishes of the locals on this matter and refrain from building with the rocks." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

30 of the World's Most Spectacular Spirals
Kerry Wolfe (Atlas Obscura User)

Highland Skye, Uig, IV51 9YG, United Kingdom Get directions

facebook.com

1 Postcard

See full details

More Places For You

Kyle of Tongue Hostel & Campsite

Hostel · Highland

Nestled by the serene Kyle of Tongue and surrounded by stunning Highland vistas, this cozy hostel and campsite offers clean, spacious digs, friendly service, and a vibrant communal atmosphere.

0 Postcards

Crown Guesthouse

Bed & breakfast · Highland

Nestled in a Victorian villa just a short stroll from Inverness Castle, this cozy B&B offers private rooms, a welcoming lounge, and delightful breakfasts.

0 Postcards

Eagle View Guest House

Bed & breakfast · Highland

Located in a charming Highland village, Eagle View offers tastefully decorated rooms, top-notch breakfasts, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

0 Postcards

Inverlochy Castle Hotel

Hotel · Highland

Stately stone hotel dating from 1863 offering a refined restaurant & landscaped gardens. Built in 1863, this stately stone hotel is 2.1 miles from the 13th-century Old Inverlochy Castle and 1.4 miles from the Ben Nevis Distillery. Elegant rooms and suites are individually decorated and all have mountain or garden views. They also have flat-screen TVs, and DVD and CD players. Some have free-standing or claw-foot tubs, plus 4-poster or half-canopy beds. Full Scottish breakfast is included, and the posh restaurant serves modern British cuisine. There's also a billiard room, plus lounges and landscaped gardens. Boat trips, golf and adventure sports can be arranged.

2 Postcards

The Cross

Restaurant · Highland

Nestled in an enchanting former mill, this cozy inn offers stylish rooms, delightful Scottish cuisine, and a warm atmosphere near scenic trails.

0 Postcards

The Altnaharra Hotel

Hotel · Highland

Nestled by Loch Naver, this charming 17th-century hotel offers cozy, traditionally styled rooms and inviting self-catering cottages in a picturesque Highland setting.

0 Postcards

Links House at Royal Dornoch

Hotel · Highland

Nestled next to the Royal Dornoch Golf Club, this chic country house hotel offers stylish rooms, exquisite dining, and top-notch service in a cozy setting.

4 Postcards

Fairy Pools

Tourist attraction · Highland

Discover the enchanting Fairy Pools, where vibrant blue-green waters cascade into swimmable pools amidst breathtaking snowy mountain views—a must-visit on the Isle of Skye!

3 Postcards

Dunrobin Castle

Train station · Highland

Dunrobin Castle railway station, a charming stop on the Far North Line, connects visitors to Scotland's magnificent castle and its stunning gardens.

1 Postcard

Cafe Lephin

Cafe · Highland

Tucked away in Glendale, this cozy family-run cafe offers a warm atmosphere, great coffee, and delicious, hearty food—perfect for a pit stop on your way to Neist Point.

0 Postcards