Wanderyn
Quiraing
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · GB

Quiraing

natureadventure
Recommended stay: 1 day
Getting around: The Quiraing car park is reached via a narrow, winding single-track road from Staffin, about 25-30 minutes' drive from Portree; a car is essential and the access road itself requires careful driving.
Hours: Accessible at any time as an outdoor trail; daylight hours and stable weather are important given the exposed, sometimes slippery terrain.

The Quiraing is a strange, otherworldly landslip landscape at the northern end of the Trotternish Ridge, made up of towering rock pinnacles, hidden grassy plateaus, and dramatic escarpments that were once used by farmers to hide cattle from raiders — the flat hidden table known as the Table is still visible partway around the walk. It's widely considered one of Skye's most spectacular landscapes, arguably rivaling the Old Man of Storr, but it draws noticeably fewer visitors because the walk is longer and the access road narrower.

The full circuit is a serious hike with steep, sometimes exposed sections, but even a short walk from the car park up toward the first viewpoints delivers huge views back over the Trotternish peninsula and out to the sea. Weather here can shift fast and the path gets slippery, so this isn't a place to underestimate, but on a clear day the scenery is unforgettable.

Quiraing FAQs

How long is the Quiraing walk?

The full circuit is roughly 4-7km depending on the route taken and generally takes 2-4 hours; shorter out-and-back options are possible for less time.

Is the Quiraing walk harder than the Old Man of Storr?

Generally yes — the terrain is more exposed and uneven, and the full circuit is longer, so it suits reasonably experienced walkers best.

What is 'the Table' at the Quiraing?

It's a flat, hidden grassy plateau within the landslip landscape historically used to hide livestock, visible along the walking route.

Is the access road difficult to drive?

The single-track road from Staffin is narrow with passing places and can be challenging in poor weather or for less confident drivers.

Can you do a shorter version of the walk?

Yes, walking partway up from the car park to the first viewpoints gives strong views without committing to the full circuit.

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