Coral Beaches, Claigan near Dunvegan

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A popular short walk to the spectacular Coral Beaches, one of the most beautiful coastal locations on Skye.

Terrain

Good track (a boggy section can be avoided on stepping stones) followed by a path across grassy pastures.

Public Transport

None to walk start. Nearest public transport is at Dunvegan, more than 5 kilometres away.

Start

Road end at Claigan, north of Dunvegan castle. Map and directions.

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Bog Factor (key)

Walk Statistics

Distance: 4km / 2.5 miles
Time: 1 - 2 hours
Ascent: 90m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NG232537

Maps / GPS

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Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

Continue on the minor road past Dunvegan Castle to its end at Claigan; there is a car park here on the left. At the far end of the car park is an information board giving details about the Coral Beaches and the walk. Go through the gate and follow the track. After crossing a boggy area on stepping stones, the track slants down and runs alongside the coast.

Stage 2

There are lovely views across Loch Dunvegan to Borreraig on the far side and Dunvegan Head; inquisitive seals sometimes pop up and peer at walkers passing along here. A pebbly bay with some coral sands is reached at Camas Ban, where the track heads off to the right. For the coral beaches, continue straight ahead across the grass towards the obvious gap in the dry stone wall. A stream is crossed on stones. Pass through the gap in the wall and over a slight rise. The true Coral Beaches are now revealed ahead - a beautiful sight, which on a fine day looks almost tropical.

Stage 3

Descend down to the coral beach. Close inspection reveals the sand to be made out of dried,calcified sea weed known as maerl. There are also thousands of tiny, delicate snail shells. The island just off-shore to the left is Lampay whereas the larger island straight ahead is Isay. Continue along the beach to the end of the sands.

Stage 4

On the way back, it is worth ascending the little flat-topped hill behind the beaches, known as Cnoc Mor a Ghrobain. This has excellent extensive views over the beach from Stein in Waternish right round to Dunvegan Head. The return is by the same route.

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