The Fairy Retreat in Uig is the perfect location for a splendid holiday on the Isle of Skye.
Located on the west coast of the Trotternish peninsula, in the North of Skye, we've got easy access to the Quiraing, Fairy Glen, the Trotternish mountains and the Calmac ferry to the Outer Hebrides - the isles of Harris and Uist.
There are also some fabulous lesser known walks in the local area. We've also got easy access to Portree, the island's capital and the Cuillin, as well as the West Coast of Skye including Dunvegan and Waternish.
There is a fuel filling station/shop near the pier.
Uig Bay
Uig Bay is simply stunning. A sheltered bay with the backdrop of the Trotternish mountains. The gateway to the Outer Hebrides via the Calmac ferry to the Isles of Harris and Uist.
On a clear day you can see Harris and Uist in the distance, as well as the Waternish peninsula. Watch Sea Eagles and Buzzards soar along the coast - a joy to behold.
And the sunsets are to die for - see below.
Quiraing
The Quiraing is an area of enormous geological landslip, created over millions of years that appears as if it’s tumbling over the edge of the mountains. The Quiraing spills from the northernmost summit of the Trotternish Ridge.
It is made up of towers, needles and plateaus and is a truly memorable place to explore. It is worth taking a few hours to make the most of this wonderful place.
The area is still geologically active and moves a few centimetres every year. It is the largest landslide in the UK. The nearby Staffin to Uig road has to be maintained annually as the land keeps on moving. But don't worry - you won't notice it while you are there!!
Plentiful parking available and in the season there is often a coffee kiosk.
Fairy Glen
Hidden in the hills above Uig, along the sweeping sides of Glen Conon, the enchanting geographical formations that form Balnaknock, the Fairy Glen (Bail nan cnoc in Gaelic, meaning village in the hills) has gained this special miniature landscape on Skye a reputation for being a place of myth and wonder.
This small and magical feature, dotted with gnarled rowan trees, was formed over 100,000 years ago by post-glacial landslides, while years of erosion have sculpted the landscape into unusual patterns of cone-shaped craggy hillocks, random boulders, tranquil lochs and even a basalt "castle".
Plentiful parking is available up the glen or you can walk from the Fairy Retreat - about 2 miles.
The Storr and Old Man of Storr
The Storr is the mountain. The Old Man is the spectacular rock pinnacle seen for miles around.
Both are fantastic to do. The Storr itself is a relatively easy walk for Skye and the views from the top are outstanding.
The Old Man of Storr is a shorter but steep walk from the main Old Man of Storr car park and it is always busy. But it is worth the effort.
These walks require a drive of about 45 minutes from the Fairy Retreat.
Sligachan Old Bridge - Red Cuillin and Black Cuillin
The Old Bridge at Sligachan is THE classic viewpoint of both the Red Cuillin and Black Cuillin - the mighty mountain ranges of the island. Possibly the best on the whole of Skye.
Glamaig towers above the old bridge, with its massively steep slopes, famous for its fell race in July. The Black Cuillin are a mountain climbers paradise. The views in all directions are simply outstanding. Start here to climb the mountains.
There is the Sligachan Hotel and Seamus Bar for food and drink.
About 35 minutes drive from Uig.
Stunning Skye Sunsets - from Uig
The sunsets from Uig are simply outstanding, especially in the summer months.
Who needs the Caribbean when you can experience the stunning sunsets of the Isle of Skye? It's what makes the West Coast of Scotland so special.
You can watch the sun set over Waternish and Uig Bay from the comfort of the Fairy Retreat.
Local businesses to visit in Uig
We've got some great local shops/businesses to visit whilst staying in Uig:
Isle of Skye Brewery Shop - www.skyeale.com
Uig Pottery - www.uigpottery.co.uk
Quirky Clay - www.quirky-clay.co.uk
They are all located down by the pier.
Get yourself a present from Uig to take home and remind you of your holiday on the Isle of Skye.