The Quiraing with a different descent from the Tables
Posted: Fri Jul 05, 2013 1:33 pmFor us, a trip to Skye would not be complete without a visit to the Quiraing. We arrived at the upper parking area early to enjoy the walk in solitude prior to the arrival of all the other walkers. We were the first car in the parking area and when we returned all the parking spots were taken and a few vehicles were waiting for someone to leave so they could park.
As we walked toward the Quiraing I dropped down for the photograph of the distressed tree. We enjoyed the views as we approached The Prison and The Needle. Above us on our left was The Needle, which was our next stopping point. The steps worn into very steep grassy slope made the ascent a bit easier than walking in the washed out gully. The final gully behind The Needle before reaching the tables was narrow, slick and with limited hand holds.
We spent an hour or so just wandering around the area and visiting the Tables. Above the larger Table we relaxed and enjoyed the view out to Eilean Flodigarry. To descend from the Tables, rather than returning the way we came up, we went down behind the Tables. When ready to leave we worked our way off the top Table on the landward side and then passed in front of the upper table. When we reached the seaward side of the Upper Table we turned LEFT. There is a path along the base of the Table which leads down and out. The beginning of the descent is quite steep but still much better than going down by The Needle. The views through the various pinnacles as you descend are ever changing. Once we exited the pinnacle area the last descent was down a grassy slope.
Once we connected with the main path we turned left and continued on to Fir Bhreugach. As we crossed the stile we turned left and continued up and over Meall na Suiramach to return to the car park.
I've been to Quirang many times and the place never ceases to amaze me.