Black Cuillin
Black Cuillin
5
About
The Black Cuillin are a world famous range of mountains on the Isle of Skye. Mainly composed of basalt and gabbro, it is from the dark colour of the gabbro that the Black Cuillin derives its name. The summits of the Cuillin are bare rock, jagged in outline and with steep cliffs and deep cut corries and gullies. All twelve Munros on Skye are Black Cuillin peaks except for Blaven which belongs to a group of outliers separated from the main ridge by Glen Sligachan. The highest point of the Black Cuillin is Sgùrr Alasdair at 992m (3,255ft). At the heart of The Cuillin lies one of Britain's most famous corrie’s, Loch Coruisk, a deep and forbidding body of water. It has inspired countless artists such as William Turner and Sir Walter Scott who described them after his visit in 1814: ‘We were now under the western termination of the high mountains of Cuillin, whose weather-beaten and serrated peaks we had admired at a distance from Dunvegan. They sunk here upon the sea, but with the same bold and peremptory aspect which their distant appearance indicated. They seemed to consist of precipitous sheets of naked rock, down which torrents were leaping in a hundred lines of foam. The tops, apparently inaccessible to human foot, were rent and split into the most tremendous pinnacles: towards the base of these bare and precipitous crags the ground, enriched by the soil washed away from them, is verdant and productive.’
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Scotlandmac
Glasgow, UK14,381 contributions
Apr 2013 • Couples
These mountains rise 3000ft + straight up out of the sea.They look fantastic from most areas of Skye but from Elgol and Glen Brittle they are something else.Only a few summits are safely accessible to hillwalkers (Sgurr na Banachdich, Bruach na Frithe, Blaven and Sgurr Dearg) but even these need respect.However, lower level walks are hugely rewarding - up to Coire Lagan's sublime lochan surrounded by the big rock peaks (about 1.5hrs on moorland track with an easy, minor scramble at the end).Or walk to the Fairy Pools (25mins) and get closer to the other-worldly Coire na Creiche.Easiest of all, get the boat trip from Elgol to unbelievable Loch Coruisk.This is world class stuff. Ancient, looming, brooding mountain scenery lapped by deep blue waters.Fabulous.
The view from Elgol itself is reckoned by some of our best mountain explorers and writers to be one of the world's finest in good light conditions.
Also, try the path to Camasunary from Kilmarie.Reaching (45min -1hr)the high point of this simple moorland climb will reward with one of Skye's most stunning vistas - Rum rearing out of the ocean; the Black Cuillin rising majestically ahead and Camasunary's emerald sward of grass and little beach sitting invitingly below.What a picnic spot! A hard one to leave.
The views from Sligachan and Torrin (for Blaven) are extremely impressive too - iconic even.
The walk from Glen Brittle out to Rubh' an Dunain is an easy one (I hr approx).While not quite in the same class as the above mentioned, it gives fabulous sea views and the Dun itself is in a stunning spot with the Cuillin behind, if foreshortened.This is the haunt of sea eagles and whales.
I have been to Skye 4/5 times a year during the last 20years and these viewpoints still take my breath away.The changing light,time of day, weather and seasons always bring different qualities(heavy, low mist is the only thing that completely destroys the view, leaving you wondering what all the fuss is about.)
The view from Elgol itself is reckoned by some of our best mountain explorers and writers to be one of the world's finest in good light conditions.
Also, try the path to Camasunary from Kilmarie.Reaching (45min -1hr)the high point of this simple moorland climb will reward with one of Skye's most stunning vistas - Rum rearing out of the ocean; the Black Cuillin rising majestically ahead and Camasunary's emerald sward of grass and little beach sitting invitingly below.What a picnic spot! A hard one to leave.
The views from Sligachan and Torrin (for Blaven) are extremely impressive too - iconic even.
The walk from Glen Brittle out to Rubh' an Dunain is an easy one (I hr approx).While not quite in the same class as the above mentioned, it gives fabulous sea views and the Dun itself is in a stunning spot with the Cuillin behind, if foreshortened.This is the haunt of sea eagles and whales.
I have been to Skye 4/5 times a year during the last 20years and these viewpoints still take my breath away.The changing light,time of day, weather and seasons always bring different qualities(heavy, low mist is the only thing that completely destroys the view, leaving you wondering what all the fuss is about.)
Written 24 April 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ana S
Ayr, UK186 contributions
Jul 2013 • Family
The Black Cuillin are really unlike anything else in Britain. Made up of Gabbro, they have a sinister, yet beautiful Alpine look to them, and when the sun is reflecting on them, you can admire the jiggy jaggedness of the ridge. Towering over 3000 feet, they can be seen from most parts of Skye. However, if you are really wanting to get a good view of them, take a trip to Elgol and enjoy a boat trip on Loch Courisk to view the full ridge. Otherwise, Glen Brittle also will provide you with a stunning view of them too.
The Cuillin is a haven for rock climbing, and provide one of the most difficult ridge traverses in Britain. Nearly all the mountains apart from two (Sgurr Na Banachdich and Bruach Na Frithe) require rock climbing and hard scrambling on exposed, narrow ridges. The Innacessible Pinnacle (Sgurr Dearg) can only be climbed by people who have experience in rock climbing. Sgurr Alasdair is the highest point on Skye, towering to a height of 993m, and to reach it, you need to ascend the famous "Great Stone Chute". This is a very steep line of scree leading to the main ridge to reach the summit, requiring great care on the way up, and on the way down. Although it will be a challenge, climbing any these peaks will reward you with stunning views across the entire ridge, across Skye, surrounding Isles and the Atlantic Ocean.
For those who aren't wanting a difficult climb, there are plenty of lower level walks that will allow you to admire the varied flora and fauna of Skye, as well as viewing different angles of the beautiful Cuillin range. Take a relaxing stroll along the footpath towards Loch Sligachan from the Sligachan Hotel, heading towards the northern part of the loch, also offering great views of the elegant slopes of Glamaig. Truly memorable.
If your wanting something with a little more of a climbing element, but something not too arduous, take the Coire Lagan walk. This lovely walk starts from the campsite bathroom facilities at Glen Brittle, and follows a footpath, gaining height and offering views over to the Isle of Rum, and a little later, the Isle of Eigg. There is one part of the walk that requires a little but of a scramble, but it shouldn't prove too difficult. Once this part has been passed, the loch should come into view, surrounded by rock, scree slopes and very steep cliffs. On the left hand side, you will be able to view the Inaccessible Pinnacle, the only mountain in the Cuillin that can only be reached with use of a rope. You won't see the summit, but you will be able to see the stomach churning steep scree slopes around it. Heading back down the mountain will reward you with the view of the Eas Mor falls, with the torrent of water falling into a gigantic ravine. The path gradually approaching the greenery of Glen Brittle and moving away from the darkness of the Cuillin Range.
From the Cuillin Ridge Traverse, to the lower level walks, there really is something for all abilities. As a climber myself, I know that I'm only able to ascend two of the main peaks on the ridge until I get some more rock climbing experience. However, there is plenty to keep my eyes fixed on the stunning scenery and the beautifully crafted ridge. A trip to Skye is not complete without marvelling the beauty of the Black Cuillin. It's a pain when the poor weather arrives and they can't be seen in all their glory, so make the most of it when they're visible. It will be an experience you will never forget.
The Cuillin is a haven for rock climbing, and provide one of the most difficult ridge traverses in Britain. Nearly all the mountains apart from two (Sgurr Na Banachdich and Bruach Na Frithe) require rock climbing and hard scrambling on exposed, narrow ridges. The Innacessible Pinnacle (Sgurr Dearg) can only be climbed by people who have experience in rock climbing. Sgurr Alasdair is the highest point on Skye, towering to a height of 993m, and to reach it, you need to ascend the famous "Great Stone Chute". This is a very steep line of scree leading to the main ridge to reach the summit, requiring great care on the way up, and on the way down. Although it will be a challenge, climbing any these peaks will reward you with stunning views across the entire ridge, across Skye, surrounding Isles and the Atlantic Ocean.
For those who aren't wanting a difficult climb, there are plenty of lower level walks that will allow you to admire the varied flora and fauna of Skye, as well as viewing different angles of the beautiful Cuillin range. Take a relaxing stroll along the footpath towards Loch Sligachan from the Sligachan Hotel, heading towards the northern part of the loch, also offering great views of the elegant slopes of Glamaig. Truly memorable.
If your wanting something with a little more of a climbing element, but something not too arduous, take the Coire Lagan walk. This lovely walk starts from the campsite bathroom facilities at Glen Brittle, and follows a footpath, gaining height and offering views over to the Isle of Rum, and a little later, the Isle of Eigg. There is one part of the walk that requires a little but of a scramble, but it shouldn't prove too difficult. Once this part has been passed, the loch should come into view, surrounded by rock, scree slopes and very steep cliffs. On the left hand side, you will be able to view the Inaccessible Pinnacle, the only mountain in the Cuillin that can only be reached with use of a rope. You won't see the summit, but you will be able to see the stomach churning steep scree slopes around it. Heading back down the mountain will reward you with the view of the Eas Mor falls, with the torrent of water falling into a gigantic ravine. The path gradually approaching the greenery of Glen Brittle and moving away from the darkness of the Cuillin Range.
From the Cuillin Ridge Traverse, to the lower level walks, there really is something for all abilities. As a climber myself, I know that I'm only able to ascend two of the main peaks on the ridge until I get some more rock climbing experience. However, there is plenty to keep my eyes fixed on the stunning scenery and the beautifully crafted ridge. A trip to Skye is not complete without marvelling the beauty of the Black Cuillin. It's a pain when the poor weather arrives and they can't be seen in all their glory, so make the most of it when they're visible. It will be an experience you will never forget.
Written 28 July 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Timbits10
New Brunswick, Canada30 contributions
Jun 2015 • Family
Driving south on the A87, about 4pm, we parked our vehicle to view the range of mountains that were advancing on us. We were planning to drive-by but the lure and the growing magnificence of the mountains with a mixture of sun and clouds casting their imposing radiance was simply too good to pass-by. As we drove on we found ourselves stopping several times to take more photos of the same mountains as it seemed that with every twist and turn of the road the mountains were yielding more beauty with their ever changing, stunning landscapes! We were simply in awe...absolute awe! Of all the places we had visited on the Isle of Skye we took more photos here than any other attraction, this is not to detract from the Quiraing, Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and other great scenic attractions etc. as they are magnificent in their own way. For us, on that day, it was like having a dozen birthdays all in the one day, the mountains kept on giving us gifts at every turn and every passing cloud:-)
Written 28 June 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Howard M
Cumbernauld, UK110 contributions
Oct 2012 • Couples
The Cuillin look amazing from any angle,BUT,the most amazing has to be from the small crofting township of Elgol(Take a left at the Broadford Hotel)it's clearly sighposted.
You will be rewarded with a stunning 15 mile drive down a single track road ,passing the "Blaven" mountains and ending at Elgol,with plenty of parking and one of the most amazing views,which ranks a World Class having seen many of the finest views around the world.
There are 3 boat trips into the heart of Loch Scavaig and also into Coruisk if you wish.
If you can watch the stunning sunset,it really is beautiful with wonderful colours over the Red and Black Cuillin.
You can also eat at Coruisk house(book) which has amazing seafood.
You will be rewarded with a stunning 15 mile drive down a single track road ,passing the "Blaven" mountains and ending at Elgol,with plenty of parking and one of the most amazing views,which ranks a World Class having seen many of the finest views around the world.
There are 3 boat trips into the heart of Loch Scavaig and also into Coruisk if you wish.
If you can watch the stunning sunset,it really is beautiful with wonderful colours over the Red and Black Cuillin.
You can also eat at Coruisk house(book) which has amazing seafood.
Written 24 October 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HeleneSalomons
Eindhoven, The Netherlands81 contributions
Aug 2017
This is one of the most beautiful sceneries. Great place for walks, scrambling or climbing ..
The Isle of Skye is the place to be, unfortunately very busy during the summer months..but still beautiful!
The Isle of Skye is the place to be, unfortunately very busy during the summer months..but still beautiful!
Written 30 August 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alastair N
Aberdeen, UK563 contributions
Jun 2018 • Friends
Anyone wishing to complete a round of Munros has to tackle the 11 peaks on the Cuillin Ridge. You can get a nice view of the ridge from the main road, and even from Portree on a fine day, but for hillwalkers it is generally a case of parking near Sligachan or down the Glen Brittle road, which is a lot busier than it used to be because of the ridiculous number of people who seem to think they have to see the so-called Fairy Pools. Don't waste your time, and don't get in the way of serious hillwalkers who need access to the hills. The rock of the Cuillin is mostly gabbro, very hard and abrasive, and most of the hills require some tough scrambling with hand and footholds, ascent or descent of scree, and of course for the Inaccessible Pinnacle either some rock climbing and abseiling experience or a good guide. These hills will take a lot out of you and should not be done lightly. Be prepared for terrible weather at times, and don't trust your compass. But the rewards are worth it. I climbed 8 Munros in a week, acquiring some bruises, scratches and abrasions, but it was an amazing experience.
Written 21 June 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Shaun D
12 contributions
Aug 2015 • Family
A bit late putting on this review, I finished climbing my last two munroes on skye in august, sgurr a ghreadaidh and sgurr a mhadaidh, two beautiful mountains with fantastic views as has all the cuillin tops. For anyone venturing onto the cuillin please be kitted out in the correct gear and know your limits as these are extremely rough mountains, paths do not exist higher up and there can be serious exposure on the tops. I have used guides on two occasions, one to do the round of coire lagan and one to do sgurr a bhastier and the west ridge of sgurr nan gillean. The guides gave me the confidence to scramble and hike the cuillin as I had only done the easy ones by myself, bruach na frithe and sgurr na banachdich, by saying easy I only mean by the cuillin standards if you are on the mainland these would be classed as quite difficult, if the weather is rough save it for another day as I once turned back on sgurr nan eag only hundred metres from the top. The corries in the cuillin are amazing atmospheric places to visit if you are unsure about reaching the tops, coire a ghrunnda and coire lagan are easily accessible though coire a ghrunnda is a long walk in and out but they both get you into the heart of the cuillin where you can appreciate the beauty and the atmosphere of this amazing set of mountains. I will always hold these mountains in the highest esteem and when I go back to skye next year I will re-visit some of these amazing peaks.
Written 12 September 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tracey M
Loughborough, UK13 contributions
Apr 2014 • Friends
The Cuillen Ridge is impressive, intimidating and not for the faint-hearted (I say this as an avid rock climber). What an amazing place.
Written 3 August 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris I
Glasgow, UK1,089 contributions
Nov 2020
Brooding in mist and cloud, absolutely stunning silhouette in winter evening sun. Confession. We didn’t walk up a Cuillin, just looked!
Written 15 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John W
Manchester81 contributions
Sept 2015 • Family
The Cuillin range has something for every outdoor enthusiast. Whether you enjoy adventurous scrambling on the main ridge, having fun on the many rock climbing routes on the grippy gabbro rock, walking on the easier ridges or just strolling up to a lochan or waterfall.
Written 17 February 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bonjour
J aimerais savoir où se garer pour pouvoir aller aux cuillins facilement avec deux enfants de 7 et 9 ans
Merci
Written 6 August 2019
Hi guys,
We are planning to hike the Black Cuillins from Sligachan Hotel, follow the river Allt Dearg Mor to Bealach a Mhaim then follow the path going left up Coire a Mhadaich - Sgurr Mhadaidh - Ab Dorus - Core a Ghreadaich to Gleann Bhreatail.
We are relatively experienced and will only do this on a good weather day over this 2015 Easter.
Any advise on difficulty and how much scrambling would be involved would be appreciated... we are NOT technical climbers.
Any easier :-) route across the Cuillins to Glenn Brittle but not the valley walk would appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
Ray
Written 13 March 2015
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