Watch water plummeting down the sheer rock edge into the ocean below at these dramatic sea cliffs.
Kilt Rock is a visual delight, even by the Isle of Skye’s high standards. Bring along your camera to the roadside viewpoint and try to capture the aesthetic beauty of the wind and water-beaten cliffside. The patterns and colours of the basalt columns bear resemblance to Scottish tartan pleats, a fact referenced in the cliff’s unusual name.
Also visible from the viewpoint here is a waterfall, which plunges over the cliff edge right down onto the rock-strewn shoreline below. The water for this cascade flows from the nearby Mealt Loch before falling down into the sea.
After attempting to capture the scene with photographs, put away your camera and simply soak up the ambiance. Not only can visitors here see the crashing falls, but the viewpoint also provides vistas out over the coast and on fine days, the open horizon.
When the weather is windy and rough, the scene is even more dramatic. Sometimes, the gusts are so strong that the water is blown off course and fails to reach the sea below.
Close your eyes and listen to the roaring crash of the water as it hits the rocks and water below and the wind whistling as it travels through openings in the cliffside. Feel the spray of sea water misting on your face.
If possible, go after heavy rainfall when the falls are particularly impressive. If the weather is fine, bring along a picnic. Be alert for eagles who can occasionally be seen circling the nearby skies in search of prey.
Kilt Rock is in northeast Trotternish on the coastal road between Portree and Staffin. Drive north from Portree for about 25 minutes to get here. Park for free in the roadside parking lot. The viewpoint is equipped with guard rails to prevent sightseers from falling over the cliff edge, but care should still be taken especially with children.
