Over the Sea to Skye
Going back to the Isle of Skye was on top of our list for must dos when we knew we were moving to Scotland. Driving there, on a day so sunny we drove with the windows down, was one of the best and fastest 5 hour trips of all time.
It was luminous and still, so the lochs perfectly reflected the black mountains and the blue sky. We crossed the bridge over the sea to Skye and headed south-west to find the Fairy Pools at the foot of the Black Cullins.
The crystal clear waters in the pools run from the River Brittle, down the stepped stone, with the snow topped Black Cullins a stunning backdrop. The roundtrip walk is short, and most of our time is spent climbing in the rocks of the pools.
Driving on to our B&B, the sun setting on the unseasonable day, we ate an early delicious seafood meal in Portree before calling it a night.
We woke on Saturday to find that we are back in Wintery Scotland – wind and rain in all its glory. Assigning ourselves to a day of driving around this beautiful Isle, snatching short walks in the rain breaks turns out to be a brilliant idea.
Driving west to Neist Point is a gorgeous drive. By the time we dodge the sheep on the single track road, there is a break in the rain and we gear up to walk out to the lighthouse – the most westerly point on the Isle of Skye.
The path practically tumbles down the cliff-side, with the resident sheep nimbly working their way down beside us to the green grass. As you wind through the field, the cliffs and stone walls keep you onward to the lighthouse.
As we reach the lighthouse, it is quickly apparent that the mustard-yellow-trim buildings are essentially abandoned, except for the sheep which must hang out here often (evidenced by level of droppings).
The light still peeps through the fog, so the only doors that remain locked must hold the automated electrics to keep the light going. The views of the cliffs in both directions are rigid, sharp and tall; an eerie sight to behold. The only safe way back is via the same path and although we head sharply up the cliff, it doesn’t take long for the wind to blow us back.
