Fairy Glen

The landscape contains numerous cone-shaped mounds rising from grassy terrain, with scattered sandstone boulders and shallow pools dispersed throughout the uneven ground, while narrow footpaths wind between the formations across approximately 20 acres (8 hectares) of rolling countryside near Uig.

Volcanic activity and post-glacial landslides shaped the terrain approximately 100,000 years ago, with weathering of Torridonian sandstone creating the present topography. The area served as agricultural grazing land for centuries before gaining wider recognition as a recreational destination in the early 21st century.

The site has inspired local storytelling traditions and attracted increasing visitor numbers in recent decades, becoming a notable location for photography and outdoor recreation while sparking discussions about preservation and responsible tourism management on Skye.

Parking costs £2 for 2 hours or £3 for 4 hours, with card and cash payments accepted. Access requires walking on uneven, sometimes slippery paths that can present challenges during wet weather. The site lies roughly 20 minutes (12 miles or 19 kilometers) north of Portree by car.

A natural basalt tower within the formations, locally called Castle Ewen, offers climbing opportunities and overlooks Glen Conon from its summit. Visitors have arranged loose stones into spiral patterns along the paths, creating temporary artworks that shift with weather and subsequent visitors.

Location: Highland

GPS coordinates: 57.58233,-6.32484

Latest update: November 27, 2025 20:37