Fairy Pools

The Fairy Pools are among Skye's most magical natural wonders, a series of crystal-clear pools and cascading waterfalls where the River Brittle tumbles down from the Black Cuillin mountains. The water is so clear that every pebble on the bottom is visible, and the pools glow an ethereal blue and green that seems almost supernatural - it's easy to understand why they're named for the fairies.

The pools are formed where the river cascades over a series of rocky steps, creating natural swimming pools of varying depths. Despite the water temperature rarely rising above 10°C even in summer, wild swimming here has become increasingly popular - the brave who take the plunge describe the experience as exhilarating and unforgettable. Even for those who prefer to stay dry, the pools are mesmerising.

The walk to the Fairy Pools from the car park at Glenbrittle takes about 20 minutes along a well-maintained path. The dramatic backdrop of the Black Cuillins adds grandeur to an already spectacular scene - on clear days, the jagged peaks tower above the glen. The pools have become extremely popular, so early morning visits offer the best chance of experiencing their magic in relative solitude.