A walk to the lighthouse at the southernmost point of Skye. Good spot for seeing marine mammals and views to the islands of Eigg and Rum. A delightful detour to a lovely sandy beach at Camas Daraich is recommended.
Summary
Straightforward walk on a rough track, with one steep hill, and moorland path.
Terrain
NG588007
Grid ref
8.5km/5.25 miles
Distance
Grade
Car park at end of A851, Aird of Sleat
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No direct public transport. Nearest bus stop at Ardvasar, approx. 7km away.
Open Traveline Scotland
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Pronunciation
and meaning
1. Park at the car park at the end of the road through the Aird of Sleat, just beyond the church gallery entrance. Go through the farm gate and follow the track as it climbs the hillside. There are great views back as height is gained, looking over the Aird of Sleat to the mountains of Knoydart beyond. The track winds to and fro and undulates across the barren moors, uncharacteristic of much of Sleat.
2. The track descends steeply, coming alongside a stream, and eventually a couple of houses come into sight on the coast ahead. Just before a fence where the track bends left take a steep rocky path left signed Point of Sleat. Continue on this path as it crosses some boggy moorland beside a fence. Follow the fence round to a gate, and beyond a second gate. The fence bends right here once more; instead bear left to pass between between two hills.
3. At this point you can descend to the bay straight ahead or take the right hand turn up the hill path to continue to lighthouse. Both paths have a waymarker post, which can be hard to spot.Take the wet path heading downhill to the bay first. Bear right across the slabby rocks on the shore to reach Camas Daraich, a perfect cove of fine sand. This is one of Skye's least known but most idyllic beaches, sheltered from the wind and a wonderful spot to relax on a fine summer's day. Return up the path to the junction.
4. The path to the lighthouse is the branch to the right, climbing and then crossing heather moorland before eventually descending a flight of concrete steps and skirting round the shore to lovely spot where the sea on each side is separated only by a narrow grassy strip between two bays; the left hand bay has a small pier. From here it is a short distance up over the final grassy knoll to the Point itself and the automatic lighthouse on a rocky outcrop. This spot is particularly good for seeing dolphins and other marine mammals and seabirds such as gannets and shags.
5. The view from the lighthouse sweeps round taking in Mallaig, the Ardnamurchan peninsula, the isles of Eigg and Rum, and Rubh an Dunain. The return route is the same as the outward way - although you may notice the hill more as you climb back to the start!
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