Walk 1165 - The Quirang, Isle of Skye

   
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A short but enjoyable walk but rather more challenging than a first glance would suggest. The place to start (probably along with many other people) is the parking area at Bealach Ollasgairte where the Staffin to Uig road breaches the Trotternish escarpment. This bealach is not named on the OS Landranger Map but can be found at grid reference NG440679. Alternatively you can start the walk from the car park at the nearby cemetery (grid ref. NG446680) although this involves an additional 350 feet (100 metres) of ascent. Whichever way you chose the scenery is wonderful with sheer cliffs dominating the grassy lower slopes of the escarpment.

The scenery of the east facing Trotternish escarpment is outstanding without the added bonus of the Storr Sanctuary and the Quirang. This short expedition provides intimate views of the escarpment as well as allowing you to see at close quarters the three principal elements of the Quirang - The Needle, The Prison and The Table. From the road take the level path which contours along the base of the cliffs to your left. The going is generally easy although there is an awkward stream to cross together with a steep ascent over grass to reach the Table.

The Prison is the first large rocky prominence reached on your right. Further along The Needle soars skyward on your left. By climbing up the steep grassy slope behind The Needle you will reach The Table, the top of which can be gained after a scramble up a short gully. Despite the modest elevation, the views are wide ranging with your eyes drawn to the many fascinating sights both near and far. After allowing suitable time for exploration you return to your transport by the outward route. However try to have some spare time and head further north along the main path beyond The Needle. Suddenly the crowds disappear and you can enjoy the delights of the Trotternish escarpment in solitude extending your walk as far as you wish.

Suggested Maps

It is recommended you take a map with you when following a walk route. The preferred scale is 1:25000 used by the Explorer series.

	OS Explorer	1:25,000	Sheet 408
	OS Landranger	1:50,000	Sheet 23

Note : If two maps are listed at the same scale then either (a) both are required for full coverage of the route or (b) the route is covered on both maps.

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