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wildlife · Portree

Fairy Pools of Glen Brittle: A Guided Highland Walk

Follow the River Brittle into the shadow of the Black Cuillin mountains to discover the Fairy Pools — a cascading sequence of crystal-clear, turquoise rock pools fed by Highland waterfalls. One of Scotland's most enchanting natural spectacles, guided in small groups.

What to expect

The path traces the river upstream through a glacially carved glen, with each pool more vivid and inviting than the last. The Cuillin Ridge looms dramatically overhead, providing a mountain backdrop that photographers dream of. Your guide identifies local wildflowers, points out golden eagle territory above, and shares the Gaelic folklore woven into the landscape. The walk is moderate — around 5 km return — and entirely worth every step.

Book it
From Inverness: Isle of Skye and Fairy Pools Day Trip
$107 per person
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Good to know

Wear waterproof boots — the path crosses the river and can be wet underfoot even in summer. Fairy Pools is about 1 hour from Portree; a guided tour handles all logistics. This is a morning excursion — ensure return timing aligns with your all-aboard. Not recommended if mobility is limited.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Portree — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Oceania · Oceania Vista
11 nights · calls at Portree
from $6,549
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Explora Journeys · EXPLORA IV
10 nights · calls at Portree
from $11,690
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Holland America · Nieuw Statendam
14 nights · calls at Portree
from $2,684
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Norwegian · Norwegian Star
10 nights · calls at Portree
from $2,039
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See all cruises to Portree →

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