If you can tear yourself away from some of the Isle of Skye’s most spectacular beauty spots, such as the Fairy Pools or the Old Man of Storr, then take the time to travel to the south of the island and Camas Daraich.
Lying in wait here is a stunning sandy beach which wouldn’t look out of place in the heart of the Caribbean. Not only are there gorgeous, soft golden sands, but crystal clear blue water laps at the shore, making for a truly spectacular sight.
Visit Camas Daraich in its own right, or take a detour en route to the Point of Sleat – another of Skye’s many jaw-dropping vantage points.
Getting there and things you should know
Camas Daraich isn’t the easiest place to reach, but that all adds to the beauty. The beach is a bit of a hike from the nearest road back in Sleat. Leave the car in the (small) car park – literally as far as you can go in Sleat – and prepare for the walk.
It will take around an hour to reach the beach, with some steep hills and boggy terrain thrown in for good measure, but ‘worth it’ is an understatement. As an added bonus, you’ll often find you’ll have the beach all to yourself, a benefit of the secluded, remote location.
Things to see nearby
The mainland! That’s how remote Camas Daraich truly is. With an hour or so walk from the nearest road, you’ll need to be committed to your destination and not be expecting pitstops along the way.
If, however, the hour hike seems merely like a leisurely stroll, you can always opt to head on to the Point of Sleat – another hour and a half away. From here, the most southerly point on the Isle of Skye, you can soak up views of nearby islands Rum, Canna and Eigg.
On the way back after the walk to the car, be sure to stop by Armadale Castle, Gardens and Museum, just a few minutes’ drive up the road.
Places to eat and drink nearby
Unsurprisingly, there are no refreshment options near Camas Daraich, so be sure to take a picnic and plenty of water, especially on a hot day.
10 minutes up the road from the car park at the Aird of Sleat, you’ll find several cafes and pubs in Armadale – ideal for the journey back. Café 1925 and Macnamara and Bothin Bar have excellent reviews, as does The Shed – a restaurant specialising in fresh fish and seafood, but also serving a range of other dishes.
Did you know…
As if the spectacular sandy beach isn’t enough of a reward for the walk to reach Camas Daraich, dolphins, jellyfish and sea lions are just a sample of the glorious sealife that can be spotted from the beach here, so be sure to keep your camera charged and your eyes peeled.
