The Fairy Pools

The Isle of Skye is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and vistas, and the Fairy Pools are a prime testament to this. 

The pools are an absolute marvel to behold and are a treasure that beckons nature enthusiasts and photography buffs alike. The pools are famous for their crystal clear waters, cascading waterfalls and incredibly scenic backdrops. 

We were forewarned on our visit to Scotland in January that the 'burns' or the swelling rivers flowing through the Fairy Pools may be high to traverse, but that didn't stop us! We boldly slipped off our boots and socks off, braving slightly overflowing and incredibly cold river to access the main path to the pools. We were so glad we got the courage because the hike was one of my absolute favorites in Scotland. 

While we didn't see any fairies or selkies (a mythical Scottish creature that is half seal-half human), it is easy to see how these pools are rumoured to be their mythical abode. The terrain was unspoiled and wild, seemingly untouched by humans.  Along the trail, we even encountered a procession of Scottish sheep who reluctantly welcomed us into their home. 

The visit was truly something that felt out of a storybook - We spent ample time at the pools exploring the myriad of waterfalls and striking poses at the countless photo spots. Half a day's journey was all we could afford on our trip, but we easily could have spent a full day at the pools. 

Undoubtedly, reaching the Isle of Skye does require a bit of additional planning, especially summer months when there is more of a crowd descending on the Isle of Skye. We were told in January that if you visit the Isle of Skye in summer months, you sometimes need a hotel reservation to be permitted over the Skye bridge due to capacity on the island so be sure to plan accordingly. However, the riches that the Isle of Skye bestow warrant the additional efforts. If you do find yourself in Skye on your Scottish adventure, be sure to check out the Fairy Pools as they are truly a realm where nature's wonders transcend mere sightseeing.