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Quiraing

The Quiraing is a dramatic landslip formation located on the Trotternish peninsula in the northern part of the Isle of Skye, Scotland, recognized as the largest landslide in Britain, spanning approximately 2 kilometers in width from the eastern scarp slope to the coast and covering an area of about 8.5 square kilometers.^[1]^[2] Formed by a series of massive rotational and translational slides, it features towering basalt cliffs, hidden plateaus, and distinctive rock pinnacles that create an otherworldly landscape, making it one of the island's most iconic geological sites.^[1]^[2] Geologically, the Quiraing overlies Jurassic sedimentary rocks—consisting of clays, shales, and sandstones—that are capped by around 300 meters of Palaeogene basalt lava flows from ancient volcanic activity in the North Atlantic Tertiary Volcanic Province.^[2]^[1] The landslide's formation occurred in multiple stages, primarily post-glacially, when the immense weight of the lava flows caused shearing along north-south faults in the weaker underlying Jurassic strata, leading to rotational slips over a glide plane and ongoing minor movements in some areas that necessitate periodic road maintenance.^[2]^[1] Key features include The Needle, a 120-foot-high pinnacle of basalt; The Table, a flat, elevated plateau roughly the size of a football field that has slipped from the main ridge; and The Prison, a striking rock formation to the southwest, all of which exemplify the complex interplay of toppling, translation, and rotational failures documented in the site's geomorphology.^[1]^[3] Beyond its scientific value as a prime example of large-scale slope instability and one of Scotland's most complete Jurassic sequences, the Quiraing attracts hikers and photographers for its breathtaking vistas, serving as the second most visited natural site on Skye after the Cuillin Hills, though visitors are advised to exercise caution due to unstable terrain and active slippage risks.^[2]^[1]

Location and Access

Geographical Setting

The Quiraing is situated on the Trotternish Peninsula, the northernmost extension of the Isle of Skye in Scotland, where it forms a prominent segment of the Trotternish Ridge. This ridge represents a major geological feature stretching along the peninsula's spine, with the Quiraing occupying its northeastern portion near the communities of Staffin and Uig.^[4]^[5] Geographically, the Quiraing lies at approximately 57°38′N 6°17′W, encompassing a dramatic topography that rises from coastal lowlands to elevated summits. Elevations vary significantly, starting near sea level along the adjacent shores and ascending to peaks over 500 meters, including the high point of Meall na Suiramach at 543 meters. The area is flanked by the Sound of Raasay to the east, separating it from the island of Raasay, and the Atlantic Ocean—specifically the Inner Sound and Little Minch—to the west, contributing to its exposed and rugged coastal character.^[6]^[7]^[5] As the eastern escarpment of the Trotternish Ridge, the Quiraing integrates into the broader landscape through a series of steep cliffs and slopes that drop toward the eastern seaboard, spanning roughly 5 km in north-south extent. This positioning places it in close proximity to other notable landmarks along the ridge, such as the Old Man of Storr approximately 21 km (13 miles) to the south, enhancing its role within the peninsula's interconnected topographical framework.^[8]^[9]

Transportation and Entry Points

The primary access to Quiraing is via the A855 road, which runs along the eastern coast of the Trotternish Peninsula on the Isle of Skye.^[10] A single-track branch road departs from the A855 north of Staffin, ascending steeply for about 4.8 km (3 miles) to the main Quiraing car park at an elevation of approximately 250 meters.^[11] This narrow road features passing places and requires careful driving, particularly in adverse conditions, as it winds through the Trotternish Ridge landscape.^[12] The nearest major town is Portree, located about 32 km (20 miles) south of the Quiraing car park, offering amenities such as accommodations, fuel, and dining.^[13] Portree is accessible by long-distance bus services, including Scottish Citylink routes 915 from Glasgow (approximately 5-6 hours) and 917 from Inverness (about 3 hours), which terminate at Portree's Somerled Square.^[14] From Portree, local Stagecoach buses 57A or 57C connect to nearby stops like Staffin or Flodigarry (20-30 minutes), but visitors must then hike or arrange a taxi for the final ascent to the car park, as no direct public transport reaches the site itself as of 2025.^[15] For those arriving from the mainland, key entry points include the Skye Bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh, about 87 km (54 miles) southeast of Quiraing, providing a direct road crossing without tolls.^[16] Alternatively, the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry from Mallaig to Armadale operates year-round (30-minute crossing, multiple daily sailings), landing approximately 80 km south of Quiraing, followed by a scenic drive north via the A851 and A87 roads.^[17] Advance booking is recommended for ferries during peak seasons (April-October).^[18] Parking at the Quiraing car park accommodates around 100 vehicles and requires payment via on-site machines: £3 for up to 3 hours or £5 for 6 hours, accepting coins and cards.^[10] Overflow parking is available along the descending road toward Staffin if the main lot fills, which often occurs mid-morning in summer.^[12] Seasonal factors influence access, with the single-track road occasionally closing in winter due to snow, ice, or high winds, though such disruptions are infrequent outside December-February.^[19] Heavy rain or fog can make the route hazardous year-round, so checking forecasts via Traffic Scotland is advised.^[20] For electric vehicles, charging points exist in Portree (e.g., at Bayfield Car Park and the Isle of Skye Candle Company Visitor Centre, offering 22-50 kW options), but availability remains limited relative to urban areas, with expansion planned through 2025.^[21]

Geological Formation

Historical Development

The geological development of the Quiraing commenced approximately 60 million years ago during the Paleogene period, as part of the extensive British Tertiary Volcanic Province, where thick sequences of basaltic lava flows erupted across the region, including the Trotternish Peninsula on the Isle of Skye.^[22] These volcanic deposits, reaching thicknesses of approximately 300 meters thick, consisting of around 24 lava flows, overlay softer Jurassic sedimentary rocks and dipping gently to the west, which, combined with the elevated topography, set the stage for later instability.^[2] The landslip's primary development occurred post-glacially, dated to between 13,000 and 5,000 years ago based on geomorphological studies, when deglaciation removed supportive ice, allowing the rigid basalt layer to slide over the weaker underlying sediments along north-south faults, facilitated by the westward dip of the strata.^[8]^[23] Key events in this evolution included initial faulting along north-south trending faults that accommodated the regional extension and tilting of the peninsula, followed by prolonged erosion that exposed the slip plane and sculpted the escarpment.^[2] Geological studies, including those by the British Geological Survey, have identified multiple phases of movement, with the primary slip plane dipping at about 20-30 degrees eastward, confirming the role of fault-controlled instability in forming the Quiraing's distinctive landslide morphology.^[22] Ongoing minor slumps and creep continue to this day, with the landslip advancing at rates of several centimeters per year, as documented in recent geomorphological surveys monitoring post-glacial activity up to 2025.^[24]^[3]

Rock Composition and Structure

The Quiraing's rock composition is dominated by Palaeogene basalt lavas of the Skye Lava Group, which form the upper, resistant layers exhibiting characteristic columnar jointing due to cooling contraction during volcanic activity. These lavas overlie softer Upper Jurassic sedimentary rocks, including limestones, shales, sandstones, and clays deposited in a shallow marine environment.^[23]^[24]^[25]^[1] Structurally, the strata dip gently eastward, creating a west-tilted plateau disrupted by a basal slip plane that reactivates listric faults within the Jurassic shales, enabling rotational and translational movements across a landslide block up to 2 km wide and covering approximately 8.5 km². This slip plane, along with fault zones, dyke intrusions, and major joint sets in the basalt, defines the internal architecture and boundaries of the instability.^[3]^[23]^[8] Differential erosion rates underpin the site's dramatic morphology, with the durable basalt lavas weathering far more slowly than the underlying sediments, leading to the isolation of pinnacles and the undercutting of cliffs. Variations in shear strength—higher in the jointed basalt but lower in the clay-rich shales—exacerbate these processes, promoting localized toppling and sliding without widespread failure.^[3]^[8]^[26] Recent assessments indicate the Quiraing remains largely stable overall, with no imminent major collapse, though low-rate movements at the toe slopes necessitate ongoing observational monitoring, including potential micro-seismic techniques to detect subtle activity.^[26]^[27]

Landscape Features

Prominent Formations

The Quiraing landslip features a dramatic escarpment that rises 150 to 300 meters above the surrounding coastal plain, extending approximately 2 kilometers in width and covering an area of about 8.5 square kilometers as part of the larger Trotternish Ridge system. This scale underscores the immense geological activity that has shaped its distinctive rock structures through ongoing slippage and erosion. The formations are primarily composed of resistant basalt lavas overlying softer sedimentary layers, resulting in isolated pinnacles and plateaus that dominate the landscape.^[23]^[1]^[24] Among the most iconic structures is The Table, a flat-topped plateau roughly the size of a football field, elevated above the surrounding terrain due to differential erosion that has removed softer underlying rocks while preserving the harder basalt cap. This grassy, sheer-sided remnant offers a stark contrast to the jagged surroundings and is accessible via a steep path, providing panoramic vistas of the landslip's interior. Nearby, The Prison stands as a pinnacle with a fortress-like profile, its pyramidal shape evoking medieval architecture through the erosion of surrounding material into a solitary, imposing mass. Complementing these is The Needle, a detached, jagged spire rising 37 meters (120 feet) in a sharp, needle-like form, isolated by erosion processes that have carved it from the basalt flows.^[28]^[23]^[1] The Quiraing also encompasses hidden valleys and elevated plateaus, such as those near the interior lochans and broader flats reaching up to 400 meters in elevation, which create secluded pockets amid the escarpment's chaos. These features, including subtle basalt exposures with occasional columnar jointing from ancient lava cooling, enhance the area's otherworldly morphology. The prominent formations are best appreciated from the established Quiraing paths, where their scale and textures—ranging from smooth plateau tops to rugged spires—reveal the interplay of volcanic origins and erosional sculpting.^[23]^[29]^[30]

Terrain and Views

The Quiraing features a dramatic terrain shaped by ancient landslips, characterized by steep escarpments that form the eastern face of the Trotternish Ridge, dropping sharply from elevations around 300 meters to create hidden plateaus and grassy slopes below. These escarpments give way to expansive grassy plateaus, such as the notable Table formation, which offers flat, elevated expanses amid the rugged landscape, while scree slopes of loose gravel and rocky debris accumulate at the base of cliffs, adding to the area's unstable and dynamic profile. Hidden corries, or hollowed-out basins resulting from the slippage, provide secluded pockets within the terrain, contributing to its labyrinthine quality.^[1]^[10]^[31] Panoramic views from the Quiraing are among its most striking aspects, offering expansive vistas eastward across the Sound of Raasay toward the mainland of Scotland, northward to the coastal areas near Flodigarry, and southward along the undulating Trotternish Ridge. The terrain's elevation allows for sweeping sightlines that encompass islands like Raasay and Rona, as well as distant hills such as the Torridon range on clear days. Frequent misty conditions, common due to the area's exposure to Atlantic weather, often soften these horizons and enhance the dramatic, ethereal effect of the landscape. Viewpoints vary significantly by position, with ridge-top perspectives providing broader panoramas compared to the more enclosed scenes from valley floors.^[31]^[10] Seasonal variations further accentuate the Quiraing's terrain and visual appeal; in winter, snowfall blankets the escarpments and plateaus, sharply outlining contours and adding a stark, white contrast to the dark basalt rocks. Summer brings vibrant green grasses to the plateaus, occasionally dotted with wildflowers that introduce splashes of color across the slopes. Visibility can extend far on clear days, revealing intricate details of the surrounding seascape and highlands, though the area's frequent cloud cover often limits this to more intimate, atmospheric scenes.^[31]^[32]

Ecology and Conservation

Flora and Fauna

The unique geological and climatic conditions of the Quiraing support a diverse array of plant life adapted to its rocky, exposed terrain. Dominant among these are Atlantic heather (Calluna vulgaris) and bell heather (Erica cinerea), which form extensive moorland carpets across the basalt slopes, providing nectar for pollinators and stabilizing the soil.^[33] Lichens, such as various Cladonia species, thrive on the basalt rock faces, contributing to the area's colorful crusts and playing a key role in nutrient cycling in this nutrient-poor environment.^[34] In sheltered crevices and higher elevations, rare arctic-alpine species persist, remnants of post-glacial flora that find refuge in the microhabitats formed by the landslip's pinnacles and cliffs.^[33] Spring brings vibrant displays of bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) in the lower grasslands, enhancing the biodiversity of these open areas.^[33] The Quiraing's wildlife is equally notable, with bird species dominating the cliff ecosystems. Golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) nest on the sheer basalt cliffs, utilizing the thermal updrafts for hunting over the expansive views, while peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus) also breed here, preying on smaller birds and showcasing remarkable aerial agility.^[35] Along the coastal edges adjacent to the landslip, otters (Lutra lutra) and common seals (Phoca vitulina) frequent streams and sea lochs, foraging in the nutrient-rich waters influenced by Atlantic currents.^[36] On the plateau grasslands and moorlands, red deer (Cervus elaphus) roam in herds, grazing on heather and grasses, accompanied by mountain hares (Lepus timidus) that blend into the rocky terrain during their seasonal camouflage changes.^[36] These species inhabit distinct zones shaped by the Quiraing's topography: cliff-edge scrub dominated by hardy shrubs and ferns supports raptors and lichens; plateau meadows offer foraging grounds for deer and hares amid wildflowers; and scree fields host specialized alpine plants in their loose, gravelly substrates.^[37] The region's high rainfall, exceeding 1,500 mm annually, fosters lush vegetation growth while maintaining moist conditions essential for bryophytes and invertebrates that form the base of the food web.^[38] Recent biodiversity surveys indicate stable populations across key species in the Trotternish area, with ongoing monitoring highlighting the absence of dominant invasive species that could disrupt native ecosystems.^[39]

Protection Status

The Quiraing forms part of the Trotternish Ridge Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), notified in 1974 under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 and re-notified in 1986 under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, primarily for its exceptional geological value as the site of Britain's largest landslip, spanning approximately 8.5 km² and featuring significant Jurassic sedimentary and Tertiary igneous rock exposures.^[40] This designation recognizes the area's role in illustrating post-glacial mass movement processes, with ongoing minor slumps contributing to its dynamic landscape. The site also lies within the Trotternish National Scenic Area, established in 1978 to safeguard its dramatic cliffs, pinnacles, and panoramic views as outstanding examples of Scotland's natural heritage. Management of the Quiraing is overseen by NatureScot in collaboration with local landowners, including 19 common grazings committees and the Scottish Government as partial owner, focusing on balancing conservation with sustainable access through operations such as path maintenance and grazing control to mitigate trampling and erosion.^[41] Although proposals for a national park encompassing Skye, Raasay, and Rona were advanced in 2023–2024 to enhance protections amid rising visitor numbers, the bid was withdrawn in February 2024, leaving the area without full national park status as of 2025.^[42] Historical recognition of the Quiraing's geological significance began in the 1970s through surveys by the Institute of Geological Sciences (now British Geological Survey), which highlighted its landslip features and informed the initial SSSI notification.^[25] Key threats to the Quiraing include erosion exacerbated by approximately 300,000 annual visitors at nearby sites like The Storr, prompting long-term monitoring programs since 1998 to track vegetation degradation and soil loss, alongside measures like rabbit control and muirburn prevention.^[43]^[44] Drone use is restricted across the SSSI to minimize disturbance to wildlife and sensitive habitats, requiring operators to comply with Civil Aviation Authority guidelines and obtain permissions from NatureScot for any surveys.^[45] Climate change poses additional risks through intensified slumping and weathering, addressed via the Scottish National Adaptation Plan 2024–2029, which incorporates monitoring and resilience strategies for landslide-prone areas like Trotternish to counter increased precipitation and temperature variability. These efforts collectively aim to preserve the Quiraing's geological integrity while protecting associated ecological elements such as base-rich grasslands.

Tourism and Recreation

Hiking Routes

The Quiraing offers several established hiking routes that allow visitors to explore its dramatic landslip landscape on the Trotternish Peninsula of the Isle of Skye. The primary route is a circular path starting from the main car park at the summit of the minor road between Staffin and Uig, covering approximately 6.5 km with an elevation gain of 374 meters, typically taking 3 to 4 hours in summer conditions and rated as moderate difficulty. This loop ascends along well-defined tracks, passing notable formations such as The Prison, The Needle, and The Table, before descending via the ridge for panoramic views over the surrounding cliffs and Sound of Raasay.^[31] For those seeking shorter options, a 1.5 km out-and-back viewpoint trail from the same car park leads to close-up sights of The Prison, involving minimal elevation change and completable in under an hour, ideal for a quick introduction to the area's pinnacles. Longer itineraries include an 11 km ridge traverse that connects the Quiraing to the nearby Old Man of Storr, following the Trotternish Ridge with sustained climbs and exposed sections, often extending the hike to 5-6 hours for experienced walkers.^[10]^[46] These paths feature well-worn tracks interspersed with rocky terrain and occasional minor scrambling, particularly near scree slopes and cliff edges, enhanced by path repairs and improved signage completed in 2022 by the Outdoor Access Trust for Scotland to better guide visitors and reduce erosion. Mapping resources such as Ordnance Survey Explorer 408 (Skye - Trotternish & The Storr) are recommended for navigation, while downloadable GPX files for the main circuit remain available on Walkhighlands as of 2025.^[47]^[31]

Visitor Guidelines and Safety

Visitors to the Quiraing must prioritize safety due to the area's rugged terrain and unpredictable conditions. Key hazards include loose rocks and gravel on paths, which can become slippery, especially after rain, increasing the risk of slips. Steep drops along cliff edges, with sheer cliffs reaching up to 150 meters in height, pose significant dangers, particularly in windy or misty weather when visibility is reduced. Sudden weather changes are common on the Isle of Skye, with rain, high winds, and fog capable of altering conditions rapidly, making navigation challenging and exposed sections hazardous.^[48]^[49]^[50] To minimize risks and protect the landscape, visitors should adhere to established guidelines. Sticking to marked paths is essential to prevent soil erosion and damage to fragile vegetation in this sensitive landslip area. Off-road driving is prohibited to preserve the natural environment and avoid contributing to erosion or access issues on the narrow single-track roads leading to the site. Leave no trace principles are strongly encouraged and reinforced by on-site signage, including packing out all waste, avoiding the creation of unofficial cairns, and respecting wildlife habitats.^[51]^[52]^[12] The optimal visiting period is from May to September, when longer daylight hours—up to 18 hours in midsummer—allow ample time for exploration under safer conditions. Avoid dusk and early evening visits during this season, as midges become active and can make the experience uncomfortable without insect repellent. Facilities at the Quiraing are limited; there are no permanent toilets at the main car park, with the nearest public facilities available in the nearby village of Staffin, though portable options may occasionally be present during peak times.^[53]^[54] The Quiraing's uneven, rocky terrain and steep inclines render it unsuitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments. For those seeking assistance, guided tours are available through reputable local operators like Skye Guides, offering expert-led hikes that enhance safety and provide insights into the landscape, with costs typically ranging from £50 to £100 per person in 2025. These tours can incorporate elements of the established hiking paths while emphasizing hazard avoidance.^[55]^[56]

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Mar 29, 2025 · Lesser-known coastal routes are usually pathless and exceptionally wet. In the Red Cuillin, expect boggy paths interspersed with loose scree, ...
[52]
Visiting Skye Responsibly - OS GetOutside - Ordnance Survey
Mar 7, 2024 · Leave no trace · Discarded loo paper is a regular sight at popular attractions and along paths. · Rock towers and cairns are a common sight but ...
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A Guide to Midges & Ticks in Scotland | VisitScotland
At what time of year are midges most common? From May to October. Where are midges found? Midges love humid and damp conditions as well as shady spots.
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https://www.theskyeguide.com/walking-mainmenu-32/13-moderate-walks/128-quiraing/
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Quiraing, Portree | Book Now Tickets & Tours Online - Viator
Tours and Tickets to Experience Quiraing ; Isle Of Skye Self Guided Driving Tour · $15 ; 1 Day Tour from Portree - Best of Skye · $119 ; Edinburgh: Isle of Skye, ...
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Prices and Enquiries - Skye Guides
Winter climbing and mountaineering prices 2025/2026 ; 1:2 Up to grade V · £350, £690, £1035, £1380 ; 1:3 Grade II maximum, £400, £800, £1200, £1600.Missing: Quiraing | Show results with:Quiraing