The outdoor challenges found on the Isle of Skye can be amongst the most demanding in Europe, with the legendary Black Cuillin offering every possible degree of difficulty to even the most experienced climber.

Some of the highest and most dramatic sea cliffs are also part of this unique Island environment, offering the walker, scrambler and climber a range of superb outdoor adventures for every skill level.

Experienced walkers and climbers regard the Black Cuillin as the most impressive and distinctive range of hills in the UK, offering exhilarating scrambling, often with extreme exposure, and sensational situations requiring knife-edge balance. Once atop the ridges offer breathtaking views extending to the edges of the world.

The majestic fortresses surrounding Loch Coruisk, standing guard over emerald waters cradled by a narrow rock basin. Photo © Cailean Maclean

Looking skywards up the Great Stone Chute in Corrie Lagan, access to a route around the peaks which captures the very essence of the legendary Black Cuillin.
Photo © Phil Gorton Studio

Even experienced climbers take time out to view the memorable ridge of jagged peaks twelve kilometers in length that curves around the great hollow containing Loch Coruisk. Towering bare rock, smooth slabs, plunging cliffs, scree runs and small corries sculpted by the elements enclose beautiful blue-green waters. These mountains intimidate and entice in equal measure.

Early guidebook recommendations of the Dubhs Ridge, Coire Lagan round and Pinnacle Ridge of Sgurr nan Gillean as routes that capture the very essence of this sensational mountain environment still hold true.

Climbers still regard these as major mountaineering routes, especially in Winter conditions when even a short scramble along part of the ridge is beset with difficulty. The traverse of the entire ridge is regarded as a major mountaineering prize - three thousand meters of ascent, technical and route finding difficulties, exposed sections, lack of water and unpredictable weather lie in wait for the adventurer.

For Munro baggers, Skye will challenge and exhilarate with 12 prominent peaks to tackle as your fitness and determination allows. Without doubt, some of the hardest but most rewarding Munros in Scotland are to be found here, including the Inaccessible Pinnacle.

The Skye Munros include:

• Sgurr a' Mhadaidh, 918m
• Sgurr nan Eag, 924m
• Bla Bheinn, 928m
• Am Bastier, 934m
• Sgurr Dubh Mor, 944m
• Sgurr Mhic Choinnich, 948m
• Bruach na Frithe, 958m
• Sgurr Nan Gillean, 964m
• Sgurr na Banachdich, 965m
• Sgurr a'Ghreadaidh, 973m
• Sgurr Dearg
  - The Inaccessible Pinnacle, 986m
• Sgurr Alasdair, 992m

Mist blowing into corrie a Bhasteir below the impressively intimidating Pinnacle Ridge of Sgurr nan Gillean. Photo © Phil Gorton Studio

Hiring an experienced mountain guide will help you safely develop your skills on the hill, or simply enhance your enjoyment of the outing. A wealth of local knowledge and colourful anecdotes can be yours - but be sure to book well in advance!

Get High on Skye | Beyond the Black Cuillin
Linger in Lochalsh | Getting to Skye and Accommodation