Sgurr nan Gillean

This superb landmark pyramid marks the northern end of the Black Cuillin ridge. It is beyond a normal walk, its easiest (south-eastern) approach still requiring some scrambling and a crossing of a foot-wide knife-edge – and crossing a lot of difficult ground. The length of this walk depends a bit on your approach route. 

With a vast view around the entire extent of the jagged, thrilling Black Cuillin ridge, as well as their Red siblings across the depths of Glen Sligachan, Sgurr nan Gillean has some of Skye’s very finest views.

The south-east ridge is the easiest approach – although everything is relative here.

The normal approach starts across the bridge from Sligachan hotel in a carpark with information boards pertaining to the geology and history of the Cuillins and especially Sgurr Nan Gillean.

The path heads south-ish along a well-used track up above the Allt Deag Beag stream between the two great valleys either side of the Black Cuillins. There are some magnificently clear pools are formed, ideal for a dip of feet or body.

The path becomes a little harder to follow with increased altitude. Sticking south up a gulley until one reaches the gabbro boulder field is a relatively safe bet.

It is advisable to aim southward, away from the peak until up on the south-east ridge. This is a thrilling ascent, every step up the ridge is harder than the last, turning from walk to scramble, to what many would consider a climb: helmets would not go amiss, especially up to the summit of this impressively daunting rock.

It is possible to carry on along the high Cuillin ridge line, to make a descent elsewhere, from Bruach na Frithe for instance, but such an endeavour is truly not for the faint hearted. Walkopedia recommends returning along the same path.

Walkopedia friend Henry shaw says:

We ascended Sgurr nan Gillean in July with serenely perfect conditions for a truly astounding Munro. A challenge indeed, adrenaline-inducing even on a calm day but just awe-inspiring enough that it’s risk is surpassed by the rewards.

Skye has notoriously fickle and often bad weather, and conditions on top can be appalling. It is easy to lose your way in cloud/mist, so not recommended if bad conditions likely. Always come fully prepared. For less experienced walkers, Sgurr Beag, south of the great Gillean is recommended.