Neist Point Lighthouse Walk

The Neist Point Lighthouse Walk leads to the most westerly point on the Isle of Skye, a dramatic headland with sweeping views over The Minch to the Outer Hebrides, and one of the finest spots on the island for watching whales, dolphins, and porpoises in summer.

The route starts from the car park at the end of the single-track road near Waterstein, past Glendale — parking is limited and fills quickly, though additional roadside spaces have been created nearby. From the car park, a path leads through a gate (easily walked around if locked) before turning left and swinging right to ease the descent to the headland far below, aided by a metal handrail for much of the way. The path continues at a level gradient, with an optional detour to the cliff edge overlooking An t-Aigeach ("the Stallion's Head"), a dramatic upstanding crag popular with rock climbers, and views left to the impressive cliffs of Waterstein Head and the Hoe, the second highest on Skye.

At the highest point of the constructed path, a grassy detour leads to the top of An t-Aigeach for those wanting a closer look, though great care is needed near the unfenced cliff edge. Rounding the headland, the lighthouse comes into view for the first time — built in 1909 by David A. Stevenson of the renowned lighthouse-building family, its white tower and outbuildings are not open to the public, but the setting is superb, with a former crane once used to land supplies by boat still visible nearby. Beyond the lighthouse, a further detour across rougher, pathless ground reaches the furthest point of the headland, where basalt rock formations similar to the Giant's Causeway can be seen.

This is a short but genuinely worthwhile walk, though the descent and return climb are steeper than they first appear, and the entire route runs close to unfenced cliffs — this walk is not recommended in high winds or poor visibility, and dogs and children should be kept close throughout.

Parking at the end of the road is free but limited; the nearest bus stop is at Glendale, around 5 kilometres away.