Rhub an Dunain

The 'headland of the fort' is a wild, uninhabited peninsula between Loch Brittle and the Soay Sound, south-west of the Black Cuillins. 8,000 years of history (Neolithic to Iron age to Viking and beyond) underlie the hugely atmospheric ruins on the glorious headland, giving rise to it being called the ‘Scottish Tintagel’.

A generally reasonable path winds above the west coast of the promontory from Glen Brittle beach. This is a stunning walk above sea-cliffs for much of the way, with views which only get better if you decide to climb the local summit of Creag Mor (120m), which has outstanding 300^o views, including back up to the Black Cuillin.

Toward the end of the cape, you follow an ancient wall south across the headland, then swing west above the southern cliffs to the 4,000-year-old fort (wall intact) which sits by the artificial channel to the little loch near the end of the headland.

After walking on for gasp-inducing views at the headland itself, return along the northern flanks, exploring the Neolithic chambered cairn near the loch’s northern shore. Thence it is a long, beautiful, by now tiring yomp homeward.

Pathfinder Guides’ Skye and the North West Highlands has a good section on this walk.

Rough going in places. Skye has notoriously fickle weather. Always come fully prepared.

For more information and photos, including detailed practical information, see our Isle of Skye walk page.