Introduction

This is one of the simplest circular routes on the island, but it’s a joy to walk when conditions are fair. Beginning in the centre of Portree, make your way above the harbour and north of town, before heading down Scorrybreac Road to the Cuillin Hills Hotel. From here, an obvious path begins an anti-clockwise loop around the shoreline. The headland has a long connection with the Clan Nicolson – to whom a memorial is located along the route – and links too with Bonnie Prince Charlie, who’s said to have sailed from here to Raasay to escape Hanoverian forces. 

As the path continues, you’ll have broad views of both Raasay and Ben Tianavaig, with a good chance of spotting white-tailed sea eagles – the UK’s largest bird of prey – in the bay. After rounding an obvious bend on the headland, the sloping cliffs of Rubhan na h-Àirde Glaise soon loom into view. When you reach a drystone wall, head uphill to reach a series of switchbacks ascending into the trees. Sticking with this path, make your way through the birch woods to return to where you started, the reward of Portree’s pubs and cafes now back within reach.