The Enchanting Sligachan Bridge on Isle of Skye — What to Know

An enchanting three-arch old stone bridge simply known as Sligachan Bridge has people flocking to the Isle of Skye for that little magic…

Where is the Sligachan Bridge & How to Get Here

Sligachan Bridge is located on the Isle of Skye, Scotland, along the A87 that links Broadford to Portree. More precisely, at the junction of the A87 and A863 roads, offering stunning views of the Cuillin mountains.

From Inverness to Sligachan (2.5–3 hours)
By Car: Drive via the A82 and A87, crossing the Skye Bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh.
By Public Transport: Buses run from Inverness to Portree, with a stop at Sligachan.

From Glasgow to Sligachan (5–6 hours)
By Car: Drive via the A82 along Loch Lomond, then follow the A87 to Skye.
By Public Transport: Take a train or bus to Kyle of Lochalsh, then a bus to Sligachan.

From Edinburgh to Sligachan (5.5–6.5 hours)
By Car: Drive via the M90, A9, and A87 through the Highlands.
By Public Transport: Take a train to Inverness, then a bus to Sligachan.

Take the Scenic Ferry Option (from Mallaig)
From Glasgow or Edinburgh, drive via Fort William to Mallaig (around 4–5 hours).
Take the CalMac ferry from Mallaig to Armadale (30 minutes).
Drive or take a bus from Armadale to Sligachan (45 minutes).

Parking near Sligachan Bridge
There is a small car park for visitors to Collie-Mackenzie monument and several lay-bys where you could park safely. Parking is available at Sligachan Hotel but this is strictly limited to guests only. Perhaps, you could stop by at the bar for a taste of one of their 400 malts after exploring Sligachan Bridge?

The Enchanting Sligachan Bridge, Isle of Skye

The enchanting Sligachan Bridge is special. It is brought to life like many other scenic spots on the Isle of Skye by the stories and legends associated with it.

Many come here to test the spellbinding ancient legend associated with the magical waters of Sligachan that runs under the enchanting Sligachan bridge. The enchanted waters of Sligachan is said to deliver eternal beauty provided the brave souls can submerge and stick to the rules!

As well, people come here to see, capture the views of the mighty mountains that so often graces canvasses and television screens and to experience a slice of the wild Scotland.

When was the enchanting Sligachan Bridge built?

Just so you know, there are two bridges at Sligachan. A more recent bridge was constructed for vehicles and is part of the main road, A87 to Portree, the capital city of Skye. The original Sligachan Bridge is now a pedestrian and cyclists only bridge.

The original and enchanting Sligachan Bridge was engineered by Thomas Telford between 1810 and 1818. This enchanting Old Sligachan Bridge is a single track bridge and has three uneven arches with a hump over the central arch. It sits really well with the unspoilt countryside and the Cuillins, bringing to life the time-old legend of the enchanted waters that runs beneath it.

The Legend of Magical Waters of Sligachan: Connection to Scottish Folklore and Warriors

The legend of the magical waters of Sligachan begins with the story of Scotland’s famous warrior woman, Scáthach (pronounced “Skah-thah”). She lived around 200 BC in a fortress on the Isle of Skye. A never-ending battle ensued between her and an Irish warrior…

The Warrior Woman

The warrior woman Scáthach, whose name in Gaelic means “Shadowy”, is believed to have lived in Dunscaith Castle (Dún Scáith in Gaelic, meaning “Castle of Shadows”). The castle, located in Tokavaig, on the southern coast of the Isle of Skye, still has ruins that can be visited today.

Scáthach was the greatest warrior in Scottish history, renowned for her unmatched combat skills and legendary training of heroes. Tales of her strength and martial prowess spread far beyond Scotland, reaching warriors across the Celtic world.

The Competitive Warrior

Soon, an Irish warrior, Cú Chulainn, learned of Scáthach’s legendary strength and set sail across the sea to the Isle of Skye to challenge her. According to legend, Cú Chulainn was the son of the god Lugh and a mortal woman, giving him extraordinary strength and near-invincible combat skills. Though not an evil man, he was fiercely competitive and driven by the desire to prove himself. His goal was clear—defeat Scáthach and cement his reputation as the greatest warrior in the Celtic world.

The Battle

A fierce battle between Scáthach and Cú Chulainn raged for weeks. The warriors were so powerful that their strikes shook the land, forcing animals to flee from Skye’s rugged terrain. The impact of their crushing blows split the earth, carving out mountains and valleys, forever changing the landscape.

It was the greatest battle the land had ever witnessed, an unrelenting clash of strength and skill. Yet, despite their endurance, neither warrior could overpower the other. With no end in sight, only one resolution seemed inevitable—a battle to the death.

Scáthach’s Daughter and the Magical Waters under Sligachan Bridge

Scáthach’s daughter was devastated. She could no longer bear the endless fighting, knowing that the battle would only end in death. Fearful that her mother might lose, she ran to the Sligachan River, where she wept uncontrollably, calling out for someone—anyone—to help stop the battle. Her cries were so heartfelt and her love for her mother so deep that someone from the magical world heard her plea.

The waters of Sligachan have long been believed to be a portal to the faerie world, and the faeries heard her desperate cries. Taking pity on her, they decided to help. Opening the mystical gateway, they instructed Scáthach’s daughter to submerge her face in the enchanted waters of the river. She obeyed without hesitation. As she emerged, she was transformed, her mind now filled with the wisdom and knowledge of what she must do to end the battle.

The End of the Battle

Armed with the knowledge she had gained, Scáthach’s daughter travelled across Skye, gathering herbs, meats, nuts, and all the delicacies that the island had to offer. She brought these ingredients back to her home and prepared a hearty broth, unlike anything anyone could imagine. The aroma was so intense and inviting that it began to fill the valleys of the Isle of Skye, spreading far and wide.

The fighting warriors caught a whiff of the incredible scent. They had been locked in battle for weeks, without food, and they were starving. Both warriors, weakened by hunger, agreed to take a break and enjoy the feast that awaited them. They made their way to Scáthach’s home, where her daughter warmly greeted them. There, they feasted together, enjoying a meal as never before, satisfying their hunger after weeks of brutal combat.

It was this shared feast that marked the end of the battle. By being invited into Scáthach’s home, Cú Chulainn became a guest, and as such, the laws of hospitality meant that neither warrior could harm the other. In Celtic tradition, you cannot harm someone who has hosted you, and so the battle ended in a stalemate, with neither warrior claiming victory.

The Famous Myth of Eternal Beauty: Portal to the Faerie World

Legend has it that the portal to the faerie world was forever “disturbed” when the faeries decided to help Scáthach’s daughter. Her passionate tears of love and her beauty opened the gateway to the magical world.

It is said that anyone brave enough to submerge their face in the icy waters of the Sligachan River would be granted eternal beauty by the faeries. The waters near and beneath the Sligachan Bridge are believed to be the portal to the other world, where the faeries reside.

However, seeking eternal beauty at the enchanting Sligachan Bridge is not as pleasant or comfortable as it sounds! The water, icy cold, can be quite a shock to those who dare to dip into its mystical depths.

Unlocking the Secret to Eternal Beauty at Sligachan Bridge, Isle of Skye

In accordance with the legend, and to unlock the secret to eternal beauty at the enchanting Sligachan Bridge, you must follow a few important rules:

• You need to dip your face in the cold, magical icy waters of Sligachan.
• Keep your face submerged for a full 7 seconds—timing is crucial!
• Do not stop halfway or submerge only half your face—if you do, your efforts will be in vain.
• You cannot bring the water to your face—it must be a full face dip.
• After your 7-second dip, you need to let your face dry naturally.

For the faerie magic to work and for eternal beauty to take hold, you must follow the above rules precisely. This may require you to get down on your hands and knees on the rocks, so your face can touch the magical waters of Sligachan.

You might want to bring along a large towel to lay on the rocks, protecting your clothes from becoming wet or stained. It could also be a good idea to do this on a sunny day, so the water dries off quickly. As for the icy waters of Sligachan, well…this is Scotland, after all, and it’s unlikely to ever be warm!

Safety tips: Be aware that the river may flow fast during bad weather, and the rocks could be slippery. Please take extra care when exploring the area.

Why Visit Sligachan Bridge?

If you’re still wondering why you should visit the Sligachan Bridge, well, let me just say that, if you don’t, you will be missing out on one the most rugged, natural scenic views in Scotland! There is something intrinsically so captivating in the raw beauty of the Highlands that, I’d say, if you haven’t experienced it then you should.

Nestled in the heart of the Isle of Skye, Sligachan Bridge is more than just a crossing over the Sligachan River—it’s a place where legend, landscape, and adventure come together.

While many are intrigued by the mystical faerie folklore, it’s the rugged beauty of the Cuillin Mountains and the sheer tranquillity of the Highlands that make this spot truly unmissable, and should secure a firm spot on any Isle of Skye’s must visit list.

The views here are simply breathtaking. With the Black Cuillin and Red Cuillin ranges dominating the skyline, Sligachan Bridge offers a panoramic feast for the eyes. No matter the season, the ever-changing Scottish skies cast a mesmerizing glow over the mountains, making it a dream location for photographers looking to capture the raw beauty of Skye’s dramatic landscapes.

For those who love the great outdoors, Sligachan is a haven for hikers. Whether you’re embarking on the Sligachan to Glenbrittle trail, taking a gentle stroll along the river, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, this place has an undeniable wild charm. And, of course, the legendary faerie waters of Sligachan add a touch of magic, making it one of the most enchanting places in Scotland.

What to Do When You Visit the Sligachan Bridge

Here are the best things to do when visiting this picturesque location:

Walk across the historic Sligachan Old Bridge

Step back in time as you cross the Sligachan Old Bridge, an iconic 18th-century stone structure that has stood for over two centuries. This charming bridge provides sweeping views of the Cuillin Mountains and Sligachan River, offering you a glimpse into Skye’s rich history and natural beauty.

Capture breathtaking photography spots

Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur, Sligachan offers picture-perfect views in every direction. The timeless old bridge paired with the towering Cuillin peaks provides the ultimate backdrop for stunning shots.

Every angle is a photographer’s dream, from the gentle flow of the river to the dramatic mountain range, offering a variety of photo opportunities throughout the day.

Explore nearby hiking trail

For outdoor enthusiasts, the area around Sligachan is a hiker’s paradise. One of the most popular trails is the Sligachan to Glenbrittle route, a scenic path that leads you through breathtaking landscapes to the famous Fairy Pools and Loch Coruisk.

The trails around Sligachan allow you to fully immerse yourself in Skye’s rugged terrain and dramatic scenery, perfect for those looking to connect with nature.

Compare the Sligachan Old Bridge vs. New Bridge

While both bridges cross the Sligachan River, each offers a unique experience. The historic Sligachan Old Bridge, built in the 18th century, has a certain charm and character that blends perfectly with the surrounding landscape.

In contrast, the more modern Sligachan New Bridge provides a different vantage point of the river and mountains, offering a contemporary perspective on the area’s natural beauty.

Go Beyond the Sligachan Bridge: Explore More of the Area

After visiting the bridge, take a stroll through Sligachan Village, a quaint settlement just steps from the iconic bridge. Here, you can explore its rich history, visit the Cuillin Mountaineers’ Monument, a tribute to the early pioneers of the Cuillin Mountains, or enjoy a relaxing meal in one of the village’s welcoming pubs or restaurants.

Sligachan Village

Sligachan Village is a small settlement on the Isle of Skye, Scotland. The Village takes its name from the Gaelic word, ‘Sligeachan’ which means “shelly place”, after the shells found at River Sligachan.

This quaint village is located close to the Red and Black Cuillin Mountains with the Sligachan Glen between them. The Village and the old enchanting Sligachan Bridge which we had already visited above provides sweeping views of the Cuillin Mountains and the wild Scottish countryside. The scenery from the old enchanting Sligachan Bridge is amazing. There is also a path that leads to hiking the Cuillins.

A Haven for Mountaineers and Hikers of Cuillin Mountains

Sligachan Village has long been a haven for mountaineers, ever since the 1800s when it was discovered that this part of Scotland had mountains with menacing crags and pinnacles draped in unnatural wisps of cloud. It conjured up the mysteries and excitements, alluring climbers to Skye.

You can find a monument dedicated to the renowned mountaineers of the Cuillin Mountains nearby.

Monument to Skye Climbing Pioneers of Cuillin Mountains

In Septembeer 2020, a long-awaited tribute to two pioneering climbers of the Cuillin Mountains was unveiled. John Mackenzie and Norman Collie formed a partnership lasting fifty years during which time they climbed, mapped and named many of the Cuillin peaks as is known today.

This fitting tribute have the men gazing at their beloved mountains for all time.

PRO TIP: Sligachan is also conveniently located along the A87, providing easy access to some of Skye’s most famous natural wonders. Whether you’re heading to the iconic Old Man of Storr, exploring the rugged Quiraing or venturing to Portree, Sligachan serves as the perfect base to explore the surrounding landscapes.

Where to Stay near the Sligachan Bridge Isle of Skye

Sligachan Village is an ideal base for mountaineers as well as for anyone who does not wish to climb the mountains. There are accommodations for all budgets and suits families, couples, groups and climbers.

You’ll find a campsite at the head of Loch Sligachan, within easy walking distance of the Sligachan Village. The Village itself offers a bunkhouse that sleeps 8 with self-catering facilities, ideal for shoestring travellers. There are two cottages that sleeps up to 8 each and a house sleeping up to 14.

If you want to experience a little luxury, stay at the Sligachan Hotel.

The Sligachan Hotel was built in 1830 and is a classic Scottish hotel. It comes complete with a good restaurant, lounge and a very popular bar. The restaurant is well-known for its “hearty-meals” while the Seumas’ bar at the hotel boasts an impressive collection of over 400 malts!

Best time to Visit the Enchanting Sligachan Bridge, Isle of Skye

The best time to visit Sligachan Bridge is during spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) when the weather is mild, the landscapes are lush, and the crowds are fewer.

Summer offers long daylight hours, perfect for photography and hiking, but it’s also the busiest season. Winter, while quieter, brings unpredictable weather and shorter days, though the snow-dusted Cuillin Mountains create a dramatic and enchanting backdrop.

That being said, the enchanting Sligachan Bridge and the surrounding areas, are popular spots. Even more so now with the incredible monument dedicated to the mountaineers. As such, nearly all of the Isle of Skye tour groups stop here. Therefore, expect a crowd around mid-morning and late afternoons.

If you want to beat the crowds, try visiting early in the morning, before 9:30 a.m. or at dusk. You may catch the sun setting over the Cuillins on a non-rainy day which is said to be a spectacular sight!

A word of caution though, as early mornings and dusk comes with other impediments too. The dreaded Scottish midge are generally found in swamps and marshy areas. They bite unsuspecting passers-by. The midge season is from mid-May to end of September. If you are worried about these insects affecting you, try Smidge, a midge repellent to keep them away.

READ My Complete Guide to Midge Free Areas and How to Avoid them during your visit.

PRO TIP: If you decide to join a group tour, please ensure with the tour operators that they do stop at the enchanting Sligachan Bridge. Drivers have the flexibility to adjust their itinerary to suit and they may decide not to stop here if they are running late for their next destination on the itinerary. Having said that, many tour groups do stop here. Just check when booking your tour.