Hiking on the Isle of Skye: the Quiraing

Our driving tour of the Trotternish Peninsula on the Isle of Skye was incredibly enjoyable. The drive included quaint towns, sea cliffs with basalt columns, waterfalls, sheep and Highland cows (so hairy!). The highlight, however, was absolutely the walk up the Quiraing, a landslip that is part of the Trotternish Ridge escarpment. The Quiraing is still slipping, requiring repair on the road at its base. In fact, they were doing work while we were there. We followed a brief description which offered two choices.

1. Walk level with the parking lot around the hill to view a hidden, verdant valley with green, flat-topped hills. 
2. The choice of going uphill on switchbacks for a great view. 

Can you guess which we chose? :)

Uphill of course!

I (Christine) was a bit trepidatious seeing serious hikers in the parking lot who looked far more prepared than our motley crew. The boys, however, were bounding up the spongy, peat-covered hillside like little mountain goats, so up we went!

The scenery was incredible and we at many points were hiking with and among sheep.

Jumping off tufts into squishy, soft peat!

Happy group of mountain goats

Adam doesn't know better what Dad is leading him into.

 

Tired But Proud Sam and Mom at the Top

Panorama Rewarded us at the Top of the Ridge

While each boy had a moment (or two) questioning how far we should go and/or complaining of wet feet, we persevered and made it to the top with a spectacular view. I'm so proud of them for pushing past their comfort zones and exploring uncharted (to us) territory.

It was truly memorable, albeit wet at times, to walk on the squishy surface and the views were amazingly rewarding.

We needed to dry out all of our shoes and insoles that evening!