Kilt Rock, a sea cliff on the Trotternish Peninsula in the Isle of Skye, gets its name due to its remarkable similarity to a pleated kilt. Here is a compete guide.
How To Get To Kilt Rock
Located on the Trotternish Peninsula in the north of the Isle of Skye, this famous sea cliff is about 15 miles from Portree, the capital of the Isle of Skye.
By Car:
Follow the A855 for just under 15 miles until you see the Kilt Rock signs off to the right.
There is a good sized, free car park.
By Tour:
For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.
Kilt Rock Entrance Fee
It is free to visit this attraction.
Kilt Rock Opening Times
This attraction is open every day, all year round.
Best Time To Visit Kilt Rock + Tips
This is a popular tourist attraction, so can get quite busy in peak season. Therefore, it’s probably best to arrive early if you like it less crowded.
If you visit in the morning, the lighting is much better and gives you a clearer view of the unique pattern of cliffs.
The car park fills up quickly in peak season. However, people don’t usually stay too long at this attraction so sit it out and a space will soon be free.
There are no facilities in the car park.
What To Pack
History Of Kilt Rock
Also known in Gaelic as Creag An Fheilidh, meaning the rock with the kilt-like appearance, this amazing sea cliff was formed gradually, over millions of years.
In fact, this area is part of the British Tertiary Volcanic Province. This large igneous province was created in a time of intense volcanic activity over 50 – 60 million yeas ago.
The basalt columns undulate, creating a ripple effect that resembles the pleated folds of a traditional Highland kilt, hence the name ‘Kilt Rock’.
What To Expect At Kilt Rock
We visited Kilt Rock on our second day in the Isle Of Skye. Following a full day of exploring Fairy Pools and Old Man Of Storr.
Upon arrival, just a 5 minute walk from the car park, you will find a viewing platform allowing for safe viewing. From here you get spectacular views of the ocean and unique sea cliffs.
At the viewing point you will also find an interesting information board, giving facts about the area.
Standing approximately 60m (196ft) high, Kilt Rock is made up of many different colours of dolerite rock strata.
Moreover, with vertical basalt columns forming pleats and sills of dolerite forming the pattern, these cliffs do actually look like a tartan kilt!
(A kilt is a knee length skirt with pleats in the back, worn by both sexes, usually made from tartan material and is the traditional dress of Highland Scotland.)
In addition, there is also a beautiful waterfall that drops dramatically into the ocean, created by the outflow from nearby Loch Mealt.
Kilt Rock is a great little stop off, with stunning views, a dramatic waterfall and the unique pattern of the cliffs making it definitely worth a visit.
Another stunning, natural wonder on the Isle of Skye that gives you some amazing photos opportunities.
Next up on the Isle Of Skye itinerary was to tick off the famous Quiraing.
Where To Stay In The Isle Of Skye
Luxury – Monkstadt 1745 Luxury Lodge
Featuring mountain views, Monkstadt 1745 Luxury Lodge in Portree features accommodation, a garden, a shared lounge, a restaurant and a bar. Both WiFi and private parking are accessible at the lodge free of charge.
Monkstadt 1745 Luxury Lodge offers a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with free toiletries, a hairdryer and shower.
An à la carte, Full English/Irish or vegan breakfast is available each morning at the property.
If you would like to discover the area, hiking and cycling are possible in the surroundings.
Mid-Budget – Balmacara Hotel
Situated on the shores of Loch Alsh, Balmacara Hotel is just 5 minutes’ drive from Kyle of Lochalsh, the main crossing point to the Isle of Skye. Live music is available in the on-site pub. Free private parking is also available.
An en suite bathroom, TV and tea/coffee making facilities are available in each Balmacara room, and most come with scenic views across Loch Alsh towards the Isle of Skye. Some of the contemporary themed rooms come with with Victorian antiques on display.
Guests can savour views of the Loch as they enjoy their meals. Specialities include local seafood and game. Plus a full English breakfast is available in the 1930’s style coffee lounge.
Budget – Skye Backpackers
Facing the seafront in Kyleakin, Skye Backpackers features barbecue facilities. Among the various facilities are a garden and a shared lounge. Both free WiFi and private parking are available at the hostel.
Rooms are complete with a shared bathroom, while some rooms at Skye Backpackers also provide guests with a seating area.
The 8 and 10 bed mixed dormitory rooms are in large static caravans in the back garden, with 24-hour access to all facilities within the main house, as well as an outdoor wash block and hot drinks station.
Cycling, fishing and hiking are among the activities that guests of the accommodation can find nearby.
For more places to stay in The Isle Of Skye, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.
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