Prepare for an encounter with the near supernatural at Fairy Pools, ringed by the Cuillin Hills on Scotland’s dramatic Isle of Skye

By Fergal MacErlean

Published: Tuesday, 06 February 2024 at 13:05 PM


Eilean a’ Cheó – Island of the Mist – or Isle of Skye, is the Inner Hebrides’ most dramatic island. Here, an aura of primeval majesty reigns, a force strongest at the mountainous heart of the island where even compasses swoon under the magnetic rocks.

Ethereal beings would not seem out of place on Skye’s jagged ridges, pinnacles and cliffs. And it’s easy to imagine fairies inhabiting the vibrant turquoise pools near Glen Brittle, at the foot of the Black Cuillin mountains.

Find out more about the myth and legend of Fairy Pools, as well as how to get there, walking trails and swimming.

Loch na Cuilce and Loch Coruisk with Black Cuillins in background/Credit: Getty

The crystal-clear, water-carved Fairy Pools are fed – and ceaselessly enlarged – by a string of small waterfalls on a burn that drains one of the Cuillin’s vast ice-flattened corries.

Britain’s finest and most formidable mountain scenery forms a backdrop to the pools, where the Black Cuillin ridge extends serpent-like for some seven miles.

Why are the Fairy pools called the Fairy pools?

The legend goes that a local Clan MacLeod chief of old married a fairy princess, giving rise to many fairy place names on the Isle of Skye.

It is also said that Fairy Pools attracted selkies. These mythological creatures, disguised as large seals during the day, would come to the beach at the foot of Glen Brittle where they would shed their skins and change into human form for the night, to bathe in the pools under the light of a full moon.

Where are the Fairy Pools?

The Fairy Pools are located on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, near the village of Carbost.

To visit Fairy Pools, assuming you are not coming ashore as a selkie, make your way along the enchanting single-track road that runs down Glen Brittle, east of Carbost.

From the Glumagan Na Sithichean car park, follow the path on the opposite side of the road towards the burn, known as Allt Coir’ a’ Mhadaidh.

Ignore an early fork to the left and continue strenuously uphill on the footpath as it runs alongside the lively burn for 1.5 miles (2.4km).

Waterfalls and mountains
On a sunny day, the pools’ bright greens and blues are at their very best/Credit: Getty – Getty

A dip in Fairy Pools is extremely refreshing, if a bit chilly, even in the summer months.

On a sunny day, the pools’ bright greens and blues are at their very best, lit up to create a magical realm. An underwater arch graces one pool, while higher up, the pyramidal pinnacle of Sgùrr an Fheadain draws the eye.

How many Fairy Pools are there?

The number of distinct pools can vary depending on water levels and how one defines individual pools.

The area features multiple pools of varying sizes, connected by flowing water and surrounded by scenic landscapes.

Useful Information

Where to stay near the Fairy Pools

After your enchanting day, The Old Inn at Carbost offers B&B or bunkhouse lodging, wholesome food and an open fire.

Tours and guided walks to the Fairy Pools

Isle of Skye and the Fairy Pools tour

2-Day Tour to Isle of Skye, The Fairy Pools & Highland Castles

Looking for more Days Out inspiration?

Our experts have put together comprehensive guides to the best walks in Scotland, as well as a guide to Scoltand’s islands. And if you’re visiting the rest of the UK, find out more about Britain’s mountains.