The Isle of Skye has many spectacular vantage points, but none so iconic and breathtaking as the Neist Point Lighthouse.
Located on the westerly tip of the Glendale peninsula, this scenic location offers some of the best wildlife spotting and walking trails in the area.
So for those planning a day out in this area, here’s everything you need to know.
Read More: Sligachan Old Bridge: A Guide to this Magical Skye Spectacle
Photo by Voyaging Herbivore
Neist Point Trail
First things first. To get to this famous lighthouse, a little bit of hiking is required. While the lighthouse is in one of the most remote areas of Skye, it is accessible.
If you rent a car, you can drive to the Glendale township, park your vehicle in the nearby car park, and enjoy a picturesque hike around the cliff trails surrounding the lighthouse.
In fact, this hike will take you all the way to the moody hills of MacLeod’s Tables, while admiring the many spots that allow you to steal looks at the many marine life and sea birds that adorn the area.
The clifftops, coastal views, and nearby moorlands are like something out of Wuthering Heights! Super romantic, in other words. Ideal for a wedding proposal, just FYI *winky-face*.
For those serious about their hikes, here’s the trail deets:
- Length: 2.7 kilometers
- Elevation gain: 135 meters
- Estimated time: 1 hour
- Challenge level: Moderate
This popular hiking trail is open all year round (be mindful of weather safety if visiting in the autumn/winter months) and is favoured by lovers of the outdoors.
Located near Waterstein in The Highlands, the peak of this stunning trail is An t-Aigeach.
These rugged cliff tops make for a popular seabird hotspot, and a hike here will likely boast winged guests such as puffins, gannets, guillemots, razorbills, and European shags.
Photo by Voyaging Herbivore
Neist Point Skye
Arguably the most notable part of this area is the lighthouse of the same name. Built in 1909 by local engineer, David Alan Stevenson, Neist Point Lighthouse still serves as a sea beacon today, and can be seen at a sea distance of 16 nautical miles.
As of 1990, the lighthouse has been operated remotely in Edinburgh, although the building (which is now listed as a Category B building) previously had living quarters for the lighthouse operator (this dwelling is now privately owned and not accessible to the public).
It’s important to note that Neist Point Skye is incredibly remote, so those expecting on-site restaurants, shops, or a Starbucks, will be heavily disappointed! There aren’t even toilets – so do bear this in mind!
There is, however, a car park, and more than a few spectacular spots to enjoy a picnic with a view.
The nearest café, toilets, and amenities are in the nearby township of Glendale.
Safety
Although the trail is open all year round, it isn’t safe to walk in this area in all weather.
A majority of the trail follows the Durinish cliff tops, which aren’t safe to peruse in wet and windy weather, as well as fog/mist, when visibility is compromised.
Neist Point Lighthouse Facts
- The lighthouse’s beacon stands at 43 meters above sea level.
- The lighthouse tower is 19 meters high.
- The light visibility from the beacon equals that of 480,000 candles.
- There used to be a fog signal, which has since been discontinued.
- The area in which the lighthouse stands marks the westernmost point of the island.
Photo by Voyaging Herbivore
Places to Eat Near Neist Point Lighthouse
As we mentioned earlier, there aren’t any amenities in the Neist Point area, except for a car park, so those planning on spending the day may wish to bring lunch/snacks with them or hit the nearby eateries, including:
Old School Restaurant
This spot quite literally lives up to its name, as it formerly served as an old schoolhouse before becoming the family-run restaurant it is now.
On warm days, guests can dine outside, and on the more chillier days, an open fire indoors can be enjoyed.
Using fresh ingredients and locally sourced produce, you can tuck into hearty meals, desserts, and light lunches based on modern Scottish cuisine.
Chidakasha Skye
This vegetarian/vegan restaurant is ideal for our fellow voyaging herbivores!
Just a few short miles from Neist Point and nearby Dunvegan, Chidakasha Skye serves up delicious meat-free meals and is known for its impressive tea selection.
Wondering what the unique name means? ‘Chidakasha’ translates to ‘abode of peace’. That, coupled with some delicious veggie eats, is perfect after a coastline hike!
The Three Chimneys and the House Overby
Overlooking the dramatic shores of Loch Vegan sits one of the island’s most famous eateries; the Three Chimneys.
Lovers of fine dining will relish the mouthwatering meals whipped up in the Michelin-starred restaurant, which also offers accommodation and serves as a peaceful, indulgent retreat.
Feast your eyes on that vegetarian menu! *drools*
The Dunvegan
This cosy coastal retreat boasts a fire restaurant, deli, coffee shop, and accommodation – everything a hungry traveller needs under one roof, are we right?!
Overlooking the loch of the same name, The Dunvegan rustles up some delicious meals using its own-grown produce, all of which is cooked over a fire – an Argentinian-inspired Asado cooking technique.
The restaurant also prides itself on being a zero-waste business, which we’re SO here for!
Cafe Lephin
Located in the heart of Glendale, this family-run cafe is the closest eatery to Neist Point and can be found on the main road to the trail.
Diners can enjoy local ales, teas and coffees, light lunches, and home baking. Yum!
Places to Stay Near Neist Point Lighthouse
If wild camping isn’t your thing, why not rest your weary head in one of these cosy rooms?!
Redwood House Hotel
Those seeking indulgent and sheer comfort can hunker down in this Skeabost-based hotel, which is less than a half-hour drive from famous Skye spots like Portree Harbour, Dunvegan Castle, and the Fairy Glen.
Boarders can take advantage of the delicious free breakfast every morning, the fabulous restaurant in the evenings, and treat themselves to a tipple in the bar.
Popular features:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Free parking
- Sea views
Photos by Booking.com
The Old School House
Not to be confused with the similarly-named restaurant mentioned earlier, the Old School House is a self-catering 3-bed property that can sleep a maximum of 6 people.
Those looking for plenty of outdoor space and skies so clear, the Aurora Borealis can sometimes be seen will love this home!
Popular features:
- On-site parking
- Pet-friendly
- Fireplace
Atholl House Skye
Featuring a beautiful glass lounge to enjoy a drink or meal in (that overlooks Loch Dunvegan, FYI!), this elegant B&B features spacious rooms, friendly staff, and a lovely continental breakfast included.
Just a three-minute drive from Dunvegan Castle, this location is ideal for those exploring the island via a rental car.
Popular features:
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi
- Mountain and sea views
Lampay Chalets
Combining the comfort of a hotel and the outdoorsiness of camping, these Dunvegan chalets are just a short walk from the loch and boast a HEAP of outdoor space.
The chalets are self-catering, and feature a fully-equipped kitchenette, as well as barbecue facilities for those warmer evenings.
Popular features:
- Free parking
- Pets allowed
- Free Wi-Fi
- Mountain & sea views
Photos by Booking.com
Edinbane Lodge
This former hunting lodge is now a five-star hotel featuring seriously chic rooms,which feature a mini-bar, coffee maker, flat-screen TV, an en-suite bathroom, and free toiletries.
Several suites include a patio and peaceful garden views. In the morning, fill up for a day of exploring with a full English/Irish breakfast.
Popular features:
- Bar & restaurant (actually, there are TWO restaurants!)
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi
- Family rooms
FAQs
To walk the perimeter of Neist Point Lighthouse, you’re looking at roughly 2 miles of walking, taking around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your fitness level (with no stops).
Neist Point Lighthouse is a renowned spot in Skye for its incredible views, which are especially magical for wildlife spotters, as it boasts regular opportunities to peep some of Scotland’s iconic wildlife such as puffins, whales, basking sharks, dolphins, porpoises, gannets, and more.
For wildlife lovers and those who enjoy sea air and a good hike, Neist Point is a must when visiting Skye.
Yes, you can drive to Neist Point. Be mindful that the roads around are rural and a little bumpy.
It is also a popular hotspot for campers and wildlife seekers, so be mindful that traffic may be busy.
Despite the popularity, this neck of the Skye woods is very remote, so we recommend hiring a vehicle to get around.
The famous lighthouse was built in 1909 and was the product of designer/engineer David Alan Stevenson and the contractor W. Hugh MacDonald. The total cost was £4,350.
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