The Plock

The Plock is a hidden gem on the outskirts of Kyle of Lochalsh, a peaceful woodland area that rewards visitors with some of the finest views to the Isle of Skye. While most travellers rush across the Skye Bridge, those who pause at The Plock discover a tranquil spot where native woodland trails lead to viewpoints overlooking the narrows, the iconic bridge, and the Skye mountains beyond.

The name 'Plock' derives from the Gaelic 'ploc,' meaning a lump or small hill, and this gentle elevation provides surprisingly dramatic vistas for minimal effort. Well-maintained paths wind through birch and oak woodland, with benches positioned at the best viewpoints. It's an ideal spot for photography, picnics, or simply sitting quietly to watch the ever-changing light play across the Cuillin ridge.

The Plock also serves as a gateway to understanding the local area's history. Kyle of Lochalsh was once the terminus of the railway from Inverness and the departure point for the Skye ferry. That ferry crossing, ending in 1995 when the bridge opened, connected mainland Scotland to the Hebrides for centuries. Standing at The Plock, you can contemplate both the ancient relationship between Skye and the mainland and the engineering achievement that now spans the narrows below.