You reach the Fairy Pools from the dedicated Glenbrittle car park on the Isle of Skye, followed by a rough, uneven riverside walk of around 2.4 kilometres return. Most people reach the first pools and waterfalls in 15 to 20 minutes, but wet ground, steep sections and river conditions can make this short route more demanding than it sounds.
It is free to visit, although parking is charged, and drones are not permitted at the Fairy Pools. Plan for changeable Highland weather, wear proper footwear and check local conditions before setting off.
Fairy Pools Access and Parking
The Fairy Pools are in Glenbrittle on western Skye, beneath the Black Cuillin. Turn off the B8083 near Carbost and follow the narrow single-track road towards Glenbrittle. There are frequent passing places, but these are for traffic travelling in either direction, not extra parking spaces.
Use the official Fairy Pools car park at the start of the path and pay the displayed fee. It can fill early in summer, especially from late morning to mid-afternoon. Arrive early, later in the day or outside peak season for a better chance of parking without joining Skye’s slow-moving queue.
- Do not park on verges, passing places or the narrow approach road.
- Follow all car-park signs, including payment instructions and any temporary access notices.
- Bring enough food, water and layers for the walk, as services near the trailhead are limited.
- Allow extra driving time if you are coming from Portree, Broadford or elsewhere on Skye.
There is no regular public transport service that drops walkers at the Fairy Pools trailhead. A car, hired vehicle, taxi arrangement or organised Skye tour is usually the practical option. Mobile coverage can be patchy, so download directions before you leave and use our guide to staying connected on a Scotland road trip for maps and offline apps.
The Fairy Pools Walking Route
The usual Fairy Pools walk is an out-and-back route of roughly 2.4 kilometres and takes around one hour at a steady pace. Many visitors need longer because they stop for photographs, explore several pools or wait for a quieter spell by the water.
From the car park, follow the signed path downhill towards the River Brittle. The route continues upstream past a series of pools and waterfalls. There is no loop to complete, so you can turn back whenever it suits your time and confidence. Going farther upstream reveals more of the glen, but the ground gets rougher and progress slows.
The pools can look clear in good light, but the water is cold throughout the year. Swimming is a personal decision and comes with real risks, including cold-water shock, slippery rocks and stronger currents after rain. Do not enter water that is fast-moving, high or discoloured.
How Difficult Is the Walk?
The route is short, but it is still a proper countryside walk. Expect loose stones, mud, uneven ground and sections that get slippery after rain. The outward section is downhill, so the return to the car park is uphill, just when your legs may feel they have done enough sightseeing.
- Fitness: Suitable for most walkers with reasonable mobility who have time to take the path slowly.
- Footwear: Waterproof walking boots or sturdy trail shoes with grip are sensible.
- Pushchairs and wheelchairs: The uneven, unpaved surface is generally unsuitable.
- Dogs: Keep dogs under close control, especially around livestock and other walkers.
- Children: Supervise closely near steep banks, waterfalls and fast water.
The river and path can change quickly after heavy rain. Skip river crossings when water is high, and do not wade through fast-flowing water simply to reach a photo spot. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code asks visitors to behave responsibly, including respecting land management, livestock and other people enjoying the outdoors.
What To Pack for the Fairy Pools
Skye weather can change during a single walk. Even if the forecast is dry, the Fairy Pools path may be wet underfoot, and wind can make the uphill return noticeably colder.
- Waterproof jacket with a hood
- Walking boots or grippy trail shoes
- Warm mid-layer and spare dry socks
- Water and a snack
- Offline map or downloaded route directions
- Small first-aid kit and fully charged phone
A waterproof layer is useful year-round, while footwear with grip is the item most likely to improve your day. Trainers can work in dry conditions, but they are a poor match for mud, wet stone and a path that has had a proper Skye soaking.
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Fairy Pools Drone Rules
Do not fly a drone at the Fairy Pools. Local landowner visitor guidance prohibits drone use at the site. This helps protect other walkers’ experience and reduces disturbance at a busy natural attraction.
It is important to separate site permission from aviation rules. The Civil Aviation Authority regulates UK airspace, while a landowner can control take-off and landing on their property. Meeting CAA requirements does not give you permission to launch or land where the landowner has banned drone activity.
The CAA’s Drone Code requires recreational drone pilots to keep the aircraft in direct visual line of sight, stay below 120 metres, avoid crowds and follow separation rules for uninvolved people and property. Most camera-equipped drones also require an Operator ID, and pilots may need a Flyer ID depending on the aircraft and flight category.
Flying from the car park, path, riverbank or nearby estate land is not a workaround. Respect the local restriction and choose another lawful location only after confirming landowner permission, airspace limits and CAA requirements. Skye has plenty of open views, but a drone flight needs more planning than a phone photo.
When To Visit the Fairy Pools
Early morning and late afternoon are usually quieter for both parking and walking. Summer means longer daylight and busier paths. Winter can be quieter, but limited daylight, ice, wind and heavy rain can make the route less comfortable.
Spring and autumn often offer a good balance of daylight and smaller crowds, though rain remains part of the deal. Check the Met Office forecast for Glenbrittle and Skye before leaving, paying attention to wind, rainfall and temperature, not just the little weather symbol that always looks more cheerful than it has any right to.
Where To Stay Near the Fairy Pools
Carbost is one of the closest useful bases for the Fairy Pools, particularly if you want to explore western Skye without driving across the island each evening. Portree has a wider choice of accommodation, restaurants and shops, but the journey to Glenbrittle takes longer.
Book accommodation well ahead for summer travel. If you are planning a wider island itinerary, allow enough time for single-track roads and weather delays, which can turn a short map distance into a much longer day.
Practical Fairy Pools Visit Checklist
- Park only in the official car park and pay the displayed charge.
- Set aside at least one hour for the standard return walk.
- Wear footwear with grip and carry waterproof layers.
- Keep away from unstable edges and do not cross a swollen river.
- Leave no litter and take all rubbish with you.
- Do not fly a drone at the Fairy Pools.
- Check weather, road conditions and local signage on the day of your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Have To Pay To Visit the Fairy Pools?
Access to the Fairy Pools is free, but the official car park charges a fee. Check the payment machine or signs on arrival for the current price and accepted payment methods.
How Long Is the Fairy Pools Walk?
The standard out-and-back walk is around 2.4 kilometres and takes about one hour at an easy pace. Allow longer for photographs, wet conditions or exploring farther up Glenbrittle.
Can You Drive Directly to the Fairy Pools?
You can drive to the official car park near the trailhead, but the pools themselves are reached only on foot. The access road is single track in places, so drive slowly and use passing places correctly.
Are the Fairy Pools Accessible for Wheelchairs or Pushchairs?
The main path is rough, uneven and often muddy, with slopes and loose stones. It is generally unsuitable for standard wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Can You Fly a Drone at the Fairy Pools?
No. Local visitor guidance prohibits drone use at the Fairy Pools. CAA registration and flight rules still apply elsewhere, but they do not override a landowner’s restrictions on take-off and landing.
