The Fairy Pools
8 km circuit, per Walkhighlands · 360 m ascent, per Walkhighlands elevation
About
A string of waterfalls and clear pools on the Allt Coir' a' Mhadaidh, below the Black Cuillin in Glen Brittle, south of Portree. Walkhighlands describes a circuit of 8 km, 2.5 to 3.5 hours and 360 metres of ascent, on a clear path with bridges to the pools and then undulating hill paths, with deep bogs between the path and the pools at times and a burn to cross that is easy unless in great spate. It starts from a paid car park on the road into Glen Brittle, which Walkhighlands says is busy in high season. This is the hardest of the big three to reach from Portree without a car. Walkhighlands mentions a seasonal bus from Portree. In the October 2026 timetable, the MacDonald's Coaches 608 from Somerled Square runs on weekdays only, and its nearest stop is at Merkadale, opposite the Glenbrittle junction. That stop is about 6 km from the car park in a straight line, and the single-track road is longer.
Highlights
- ✓Waterfalls and deep pools on the Allt Coir' a' Mhadaidh
- ✓The Black Cuillin behind
- ✓An underwater arch in one pool, per Walkhighlands
Tips
- →Check Stagecoach and MacDonald's Coaches for a seasonal service before planning a car-free visit; the October 2026 timetable does not reach the car park.
- →After heavy rain the burn crossing can be in spate, per Walkhighlands. Turn back rather than wade.
- →Arrive early or late in summer; Walkhighlands says the paid car park is busy in high season.
Best Season
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