Fairy Pools


The spectacular Fairy Pools are located near the village of Carbost in Glenbrittle in the shadow of Cuillin mountains. Tributaries of the River Brittle run down from the Cuillin into the glen including a stream with waterfalls known as the Fairy Pools, a popular place for walkers. The Fairy Pools are beautiful rock pools of translucent mountain spring water fed by a series of waterfalls.

A stunning 2.4km walk from the car park to the Fairy Pools via the gravel path bordered with grass, heather, peat and rocks up towards the largest waterfall, or walk further up the path and explore some of the smaller pools which lie ahead. The water of the Fairy Pools is crystal-clear, perfect for any adventurous swimmers brave enough to enter the icy waters. It is advisable to bring a wetsuit for this activity as these beautiful rock pools can be bracing.

Although peaceful today, the Fairy Pools were the location of the last and bloodiest Battle of Coire na Creiche, between the MacLeods of Dunvegan and the MacDonalds of Sleat. The MacDonalds were victorious, but it is said that the battle was so fierce and so many had been killed, that Allt Coir a ‘Mhadaidh (the Fairy Pools) ran red with blood. There may be some truth to the legend, as the Scottish Crown was sufficiently horrified by the battle to intervene and force a truce between the feuding clans, who never again went to war with each other.

The Fairy Pools are becoming increasingly popular with walkers, so please drive safely on the single-track roads, follow the parking notices, the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and take your litter away with you. There is a WC at the nearby award winning Glenbrittle Campsite & Cafe right next to Loch Brittle beach, along with some great hot chocolate and speciality coffee served up by the baristas at the Cuillin Coffee Co.

The Fairy Pools are a popular tourist attraction located on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. They are a series of enchanting crystal-clear pools and waterfalls that flow along the River Brittle in the Glen Brittle area, at the foot of the Black Cuillin mountains.

The highlights of the Fairy Pools is the opportunity to swim in the pools if you're brave enough to face the cold water. Many visitors choose to take a dip and experience the invigorating waters surrounded by the stunning landscape.

The Fairy pools is approximately 26 miles from the Three Chimneys and could be combined with a visit to Talisker Distillery. 


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