Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye: A Guide to Visiting

Fairy tales may belong in books, but on the Isle of Skye, they come to life. Enter the Fairy Pools—a natural wonder so magical, you half expect to spot a unicorn sipping from their crystal-clear waters. Tucked amid dramatic landscapes and brimming with tranquility, the Fairy Pools are where Mother Nature shows off her Instagram game. 

A Guide to Visiting the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye  

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to visit these enchanting pools, from the best routes to personal tips for enjoying the hike. Spoiler alert—it’s a little slice of heaven that’s absolutely worth the trek!  

What (and Where) Are the Fairy Pools?  

The Fairy Pools are a series of mesmerizing crystal-clear blue pools and waterfalls nestled along the Allt Coire a’Mhadaidh stream on the Isle of Skye. Picture a postcard-perfect backdrop featuring the dramatic Black Cuillin range and lush Glen Brittle forest waving in the Highland breeze.  

It’s not just a trek—it’s an experience. Whether you’re someone who can’t resist a good photo op or just want to immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility, the Fairy Pools have your name on them.  

Fairy Pools Location Cheat Sheet  

• Region: Isle of Skye, Scotland  
• Specific Spot: On the northern slopes of the Black Cuillin range. The pools culminate where Allt Coire a’Mhadaidh flows into the River Brittle.  
• Parking: Near Glen Brittle, there’s a parking area (with a small fee of £5).   

Set your GPS, but don’t worry—the well-trodden trail will wave you in the right direction.  

How to Visit and What to Expect  

Visiting the Fairy Pools is like stepping into a Highland dream, except there are no jaw-dropping filters needed because reality looks better. The hike to reach them starts right at the parking area. It’s a fairly easy walk, though the terrain has its quirks—think muddy patches and a couple of inclines that will make your calves go, “Oh hey!” 

Here’s what you’ll love:  

• The Hike: A gentle stroll alongside the River Brittle with sweeping views of the surrounding Highlands. Pro tip? Go slow and soak in the vibe.  
• The Magic of Waterfalls: Expect a series of petite but powerful waterfalls—each one tumbling into a pool prettier than the last.  
• The Landscape: Between the Cuillin skyline, emerald green vegetation, and water so clear it could star in a bottled water commercial, your surroundings will leave you speechless (and maybe out of breath in the best way).  

If you’re looking for that perfect IG reel or want to feel like you’ve stepped into a fantasy film, this is the spot. Pro tip? Bring your camera, but take a second to just look around—you’ll thank yourself later.  

Tips for Visiting the Fairy Pools

Want to make your visit absolutely seamless? Take note of these tips to level up your Fairy Pools experience:

• Arrive Early or Late: The pools get crowded, real fast. Beat the rush by going early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
• Dress for Adventure: Waterproof hiking boots are a must—the trail to the pools can get muddy, slippery, and wet (classic unpredictable Scottish weather).
• Bring a Snack: While you won’t need full-on camping rations, having a snack and water on hand will save you from getting “hangry” halfway through the trail.
• Swim at Your Own Risk: If you’re daring enough to swim here, expect icy water. No lifeguards are on duty, so be cautious.
• Respect the Landscape: Keep the Fairy Pools as pristine and magical as they are by taking all your trash with you.

The Legend Behind the Fairy Pools  

No magical place is complete without a legend, right? The Fairy Pools have their fair share of folklore. Local stories whisper about the Blue Men of the Minch, mischievous sea creatures who lured sailors to their doom. Other tales claim these pools are literal portals to the fairy realm, allowing fairies to flit back and forth between their world and ours.  

Whether you’re a sucker for myths or just here for the nature vibes, the stories add an extra sprinkle of magic to your visit. Who knows—maybe you’ll spot a fairy (or a swimmer)!