The Black Cuillin on Skye is the most serious mountaineering range in Britain — a jagged ridge of rock peaks that culminates in the only Munro requiring rock climbing.
What to expect
Steep, rough gabbro peaks and the classic Cuillin Ridge traverse: a sustained mountaineering expedition with rock climbing, big exposure and notoriously unreliable compasses, as the rock is magnetic. The Inaccessible Pinnacle is the UK's only Munro that needs roping up. This is terrain for experienced mountaineers or those with a guide.
Getting there car-free
Skye is reached by train to Kyle of Lochalsh, then a bus across the bridge toward Sligachan and Glen Brittle, the main bases for the ridge.
Can beginners tackle the Cuillin?
No — this is serious mountaineering with real rock climbing; hire a qualified guide if you are new to it.
When is the best time to climb here?
May to September, in settled weather, which the Cuillin grants sparingly.
