Sgùrr nan Gillean

Sgùrr nan Gillean, at 964 metres, is widely regarded as the finest peak of the Skye Cuillin, a dramatic pyramid with three ridges, only one of which is accessible to hillwalkers rather than rock climbers.

The route starts from the layby at Sligachan, on the Dunvegan road, following a good footpath across a high footbridge over the Allt Dearg Mòr. The path climbs into Coire Riabhach, becoming steeper and less distinct through boulders and scree, before reaching a large rock slab. From here a faint, cairned path keeps left of the crags, zig-zagging up scree to gain the South East Ridge — the only route to the summit that doesn't require rock-climbing skills. The final approach along the ridge involves genuine, exposed scrambling with significant drops, requiring a confident head for heights.

This is the only descent option for hillwalkers too — the West Ridge towards Am Bàsteir is a graded rock climb with a mandatory abseil, and the North Ridge (Pinnacle Ridge) is harder still, so non-climbers must return by the same South East Ridge route in both directions.

The round trip from Sligachan is around 9 kilometres, but the technical nature of the ground means it typically takes five to six hours despite the modest distance.

This is not a straightforward hillwalk — the final scramble to the summit is genuinely difficult and exposed, the path can be hard to follow in mist, and several parties choose to carry a rope for reassurance on the upper sections even when descending by the same route. Walkers uncomfortable with exposed scrambling should not attempt this without appropriate experience or a qualified guide; the nearby, easier summit of Sgùrr Beag is a sensible alternative for those who decide against the final pitch.

Parking at the Sligachan layby is free; buses from Portree, Broadford, and Kyleakin stop at the Sligachan Hotel nearby.