Coral Beaches, Claigan near Dunvegan

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This popular short walk to the spectacular Coral Beaches, one of the most beautiful coastal locations on Skye. The walk heads across crofting land with livestock so be sure to keep any dogs under tight control.

Terrain

Initial track 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. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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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. Eventually it descends to run 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 algae known as maerl. There are also thousands of tiny, delicate snail shells.

Stage 4

Continue along the beach to the end of the sands. The island just off-shore to the left is Lampay whereas the larger island straight ahead is Isay.

Stage 5

On the way back, it is worth ascending the little flat-topped hill behind the beaches, known as Cnoc Mòr 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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