Quiraing, hill circuit

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The truly spectacular Quiraing is an icon of Scotland. Many people visit only the first short section of path, but this complete hill circuit goes further, passing the Prison, Needle and other features before climbing back to return above the escarpment; the views are simply sensational throughout.

Terrain

Good path initially, but rough and rocky with one minor scramble. Return over hill is exposed and final descent is very boggy and eroded.

Public Transport

None to start, nearest service bus stop 3km at Brogaig, Staffin.

Start

Parking at summit of the minor road between Staffin and Uig. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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Walk Description

Stage 1

Park at the summit of the minor road linking Staffin and Uig; there is room for a good number of cars but it can get busy; if full there is more space further west along the road towards Uig - do not park on the hairpin bends or passing spaces. The walk starts on the north side of the road, marked by a footpath sign to Flodigarry. This part of the walk is often very busy, but you'll escape the crowds later on. There are superb views both ahead to the Quiraing, and looking back along the ridge towards Bioda Buidhe. One gully on the right with a wind-blasted tree is a particular favourite of photographers.

Stage 2

The path is very clear as it runs across the steep slopes, though rocky in places. At one point there is a slight scramble where it crosses a gully - care is needed. The route gains a little height as it continues, eventually a looser section leads up to the gap between the main cliffs of the Quiraing - on your left - and the Prison - a complex rock feature with three summits on your right; the prison can be ascended only by competent scramblers.

Stage 3

Directly above on your left is the main area of landslips, with the detached 'Needle Rock' prominent. Above the Needle and out of sight is the Table - this can be reached from here but involves an extremely steep and loose ascent and descent. Although not recommended as part of the walk, it can be reached by detouring to head up directly left of the Needle and then continuing up a wide gully, keeping left of a buttress to reach easier ground. The Table is on top of the flat buttress ahead, and can be ascended by passing it to the left and following a path up the back. If you visit the Table you must return to this point; our route gives great views down onto the Table from the top of the cliffs, which is perhaps to be preferred.

Stage 4

Instead, continue on the main clear path across the slope, which soon passes under a dramatic overhang. Once around the corner yet more rock towers and pinnacles, although on a smaller scale, come into view. Go over the stile and continue on the path.

Stage 5

Continue until a fork in the path. The right branch descends to Loch Hasco, so take the left fork, climbing gently over a saddle and passing through a drystane wall. A hidden glen of small pinnacles is now entered; keep to the path, which becomes eroded as it climbs steeply up to gain the ridge on your left.

Stage 6

Cross the stile as the ridge is reached. The scenery here is stunning - you can make an optional detour if you have the time to the dramatic prow of Sròn Vourlin to the right. Otherwise turn left and head up along the edge of the escarpment. The ascent is steady but unrelenting; keep safely back from the cliff edge. The views over the northern end of Skye get better and better as height is gained.

Stage 7

Eventually there is a first view down to the grassy top of the Table, surrounded by crazy pinnacles. You'll probably see tiny figures wandering around the Table who have climbed the steep slope from below - much better to look down on it from here! Continue up along the escarpment edge.

Stage 8

Soon the highest part of the cliff edge is reached, with more sensational views down over the landslips below. The outlook across the sea and Staffin Bay to the Torridon mountains, with Beinn Alligin and Slioch prominent, is equally magnificent. The true summit of the hill - Meall na Suiramach - is over the right across the plateau, but being away from all the drama is not really worth a detour.

Stage 9

Continue along the path as it begins to descend, heading across a grassy slope to reach a gate in a fence. Pass through this and follow the path down; the later part of the descent has become very eroded; it's steep and boggy and requires care. Eventually the outward path is met near the start of the walk. Turn right to return to the start.

For information on how the Quiraing was formed, see Ben Dolphin's article on Walkhighlands, 'Britain's Biggest Landslide'.

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