Neist Point
August 7, 2007
Today… finally dry after days of fierce winds and heavy rain. So, a good moment to get out and about. Neist Point is always a good spot for a quick workout. It’s about a 10 minute drive from our house and during the holiday season a popular spot with the tourists.
Today is was extremely crowded with people. The recently renovated and extended car park was packed full with cars.
Neist Point is located in the North West of Skye, along the coast and is well known for its cliffs and the lighthouse. The cabins of the Lighthouse are now operated as self catering chalets although there’s never much folk around. Probably because it’s extremely remote and requires a very brisk 30 minute walk along steep paths. There used to be issues with the public access of the area (click here to read) but this all seems history as the area is now enjoyed by everybody without any problems.
The lighthouse is still operational and maintained by the Northern Lighthouse Board. Nowadays it is fully automated and only inspected every now and then. Besides the occasional tourist talking a walk, the area is also popular with climbers and anglers.
Opposite of the road leading to the lighthouse is Skye’s highest cliff, called Waterstein Head. If you drive on, past Neist Point, you can also climb Waterstein Head. This gives a marvelous view over Neist Point and - when you’re lucky - you can see sea eagles soaring the cliff.
To go back to your car, you will have to climb the very steep path and stairs back to the car park. The stairs have been made of concrete and you’re protected from tumbling down the steep cliffs by an iron fence. Although the picture may not give the right impression, I estimate the slope at about 30 degrees.
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