Quiraing

The Quiraing is a unique geological formation on the eastern face of Meall na Suiramach, the northernmost summit of the Trotternish escarpment on the of the Isle of Skye. It was created by a massive landslip, which continues to shift today, producing cliffs, pinnacles, and hidden plateaus. Notable features include the Needle, a 120-foot rock pinnacle; the Prison, a pyramid-shaped outcrop resembling a medieval keep; and the Table, a flat grassy plateau historically used to hide cattle from Viking raiders. The name “Quiraing” comes from the Old Norse “Kví Rand,” meaning “Round Fold”.

The main Quiraing Circuit is a 6.8 km (4.3-mile) loop, with sections requiring scrambling over loose rocks and steep grassy slopes. The route offers sweeping views of the Isle of Skye, the Outer Hebrides, and the mainland mountains. A shorter Prison Walk covers 4 km roundtrip, suitable for those with limited time or mobility. The path can be muddy, slippery, and uneven, especially after rain. Some sections are close to cliff edges, so caution is advised. Hiking boots, waterproof clothing, and layered attire are recommended.

The Quiraing is accessible via a single-track road connecting Uig and Staffin, about 35–40 minutes from Portree. Weather is a key factor; clear days provide the best visibility and photography opportunities. Sunrise and sunset are ideal for dramatic lighting. The Quiraing is accessible year-round, but winter and autumn offer misty, atmospheric conditions.

Image 2 is a mural on a wall in Portree. Our photography group went to the Quiraing at dawn.

Portree Doors

couple of doors from our stay in Portree, isle of Sky at the end of April.

For Dan’s Thursday Doors: https://nofacilities.com/2026/06/18/italian-room/

Neist Point

Neist Point is the westernmost tip of the Isle of Skye in the area known as ‘Durinish’. It is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, iconic lighthouse, and abundant wildlife.

Neist Point is one of the most famous lighthouses in Scotland and can be found on the most westerly tip of Skye near the township of Glendale. From the path you will see stunning views of the high cliffs and the lighthouse itself, at sunset the view is made even more spectacular making this a top destination for landscape photographers. This walk is not suitable in all weather conditions. As it takes you near high cliffs so it cannot be recommended in windy conditions or if it’s misty (low visibility).

Neist Point Lighthouse was built in 1900 when it was a manned lighthouse. Since then the internal light system has been updated to an automated system that no longer requires daily maintenance. The light is 43 meters above sea level and can be seen up to 16 nautical miles offshore. The keeper’s cottages that surround the main tower are now privately owned, for a few years were used as holiday lets, but recently don’t seem to have been used.

Image 2 is a mural in Portree.

Portree

Portree is the largest town and capital of the Isle of Skye, known for its colorful harbor, scenic landscapes, and as a hub for exploring the island.

Portree, or Port Rìgh in Scottish Gaelic, meaning “King’s Port,” is located on the east coast of the Isle of Skye, overlooking a bay and surrounded by hills such as Ben Tianavaig and Fingal’s Seat. The town has a population of around 2,500. Its natural harbor, extended by Thomas Telford, is lined with brightly painted buildings.

Portree’s origins date back centuries, with archaeological evidence of settlement from the Early Bronze Age to the Medieval period. The town developed as a fishing village in the 18th and 19th centuries and played a role in Scottish emigration and trade. Its name is traditionally linked to a visit by King James V in 1540, though the area was known as Port Ruighe, meaning “slope harbor,” before that.

Portree is an excellent base for exploring Skye due to its central location and access to major roads like the A87 and A855. The weather is mild, wet, and windy; visitors should dress for changing conditions.

The buttercups glowed like stars in the shadows. Marc’s version is image 2. I created image 3.

Loch Coruisk

Loch Coruisk is a remote freshwater loch at the foot of the Black Cuillin mountains on the Isle of Skye, Scotland, accessible only by boat from Elgol or by hiking from Sligachan or Elgol. There is no road access to Loch Coruisk, making it one of the most remote lochs in Britain. Our group went there by boat.

Loch Coruisk (Scottish Gaelic: Coire Uisg, meaning “Cauldron of Waters”) lies in the southern part of the Isle of Skye, within the Scottish Highlands, at the base of the dramatic Black Cuillin mountain range. The loch is approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) long and 370–400 meters wide, with dark, deep waters that reflect the surrounding jagged peaks. Its southern end drains via the short Scavaig River into Loch Scavaig, a sea loch connected to the Atlantic Ocean.

The loch is renowned for its wild, untouched beauty and has inspired artists and writers such as Sir Walter Scott, J.M.W. Turner, and Lord Tennyson. The northern end is ringed by the Black Cuillin peaks, often shrouded in cloud, while the southern end opens to the sea via Loch Scavaig. Wildlife includes seals along the shoreline, red deer, and golden eagles in the surrounding slopes. The area is ideal for photography, hiking, and experiencing remote Highland landscapes.

There was a little baby enjoying the cold water (image 5). I discovered a rare plant, a Hairy Daisy (Erigeron incertus) (image 6). We had a peaceful and enjoyable day there.

Sligachan

The Sligachan Bridge, also referred to as the Sligachan Old Bridge, is situated in the small settlement of Sligachan, in the heart of the Isle of Skye. It spans the River Sligachan and lies along the main road A87, which connects Portree, Broadford, and the Skye Bridge. The bridge is surrounded by the dramatic Cuillin Mountains.

This was an evening photoshoot with the photography group.

Eilean Donan Doors

Eilean Donan Castle in Loch Alsh, Kyle, Dornie, Scotland. These are doors for Dan’s Thursday Doors: https://nofacilities.com/2026/06/11/the-german-room/.

Eilean Donan Castle

I paid to walk around the castle but not to go inside. I was amused by the contrail looking like smoke from the chimney on the castle. That is Marc by the tree.