THE GLORIOUS
MILES
Don’t just Visit Skye Journey There
18 GLORIOUS MILES await you. Beginning at the turnoff to Shiel Bridge in Kintail to a main road outside of Broadford on Skye you can take a journey to Skye and adventure on the LAST SURVIVING MANUALLY OPERATED TURNTABLE CAR FERRY in the world. Journeying in the Highlands is a romantic adventure. The winding roads, the rugged mountains, and the lush forests are all a sight to behold. And when you stop to take in the scenery, you’ll feel like you’re in a different world. Driving up Mam Ratagan is a beautiful way to experience the Scottish Highlands. The formidable pass takes you up through stunning scenery, and the views from the top of the mountain are simply breathtaking. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you gaze out over the vast expanse of Loch Duich. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the local wildlife, such as deer or eagles.
Mam Ratagan Pass
Kintail
You’ll begin by taking the turn at Shiel Bridge. Over 300 years of history, this bridge divides main road to Kyle of Lochalsh. Thomas Telford original bridges form part of the old road and can be seen from the road – one being the tallest single span stone bridge in the UK at the time of construction.
lat/lng: 57.21269 -5.42044
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Loch Duich
A small de-tour will take you along western Shores of Loch Duich to the villages of Ratagan and Letterfearn where historically a ferry connected to Eilean Donan Castle.
There’s no through road but worth a detour for the views.
Continue on foot to the slipway at Totaig walk through woodland to visit the impressive remains of an Iron Age broch Dùn Totaig.
lat/lng: 57.26933 -5.52385
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Mam Ratagan
A dramatic pass through the hills above Kintail. A steep road climbs through trees, just below the 350m summit of Mam Ratagan a viewpoint allows a safe place to park and enjoy an incredible view of Loch Duich and beyond, including the mountain range known as the “Five Sisters of Kintail”.
An easy drive at first, much of it single track, the bends get sharper and the gradient increases. A serious challenge for heavy vehicles. Exilerating views along the way. The ‘Mam’ is a true experience!
lat/lng: 57.22167 -5.47314
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Drover's Road
The Mam was a drove road, used primarily to transport cattle to market in a time when the Highlands were better connected by sea. Some examples of General Wades’ military road around 1725 are still to be found on the ‘Mam.
View to the Cuillin
Near the top of Mam Ratagan there are two fine views accessible from the parking areas. One back down to Shiel Bridge and Kintail, the other a dramatic vision of Skye.
Through layers of mountains you’ll get your first glimpse of the Cuillin far in the distance. A few turns more and you’re on the
lat/lng: 57.21964 -5.48178
Long Winding Road
The final few corners will take you to the junction at the entrance to the township of Glenelg. There’s an entire section below focussing on our home.
lat/lng: 57.21728 -5.61106
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Glenelg
The final few corners will take you to the junction at the entrance to the township of Glenelg. There’s an entire section below focussing on our home.
lat/lng: 57.21363 -5.62343
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Exploring Glenelg & Arnisdale
A village known for its beautiful scenery, including stunning views of Skye and the cocktail Isles of Rum and Eigg. Glenelg is a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and fishing. But what makes Glenelg truly unique is its scenic crossing of the Kylerhea Narrows to Skye.
Glenelg Barracks
Built around 1720 to subdue the local population following the Jacobite uprising of 1715.
Iron Age Brochs
Two well-preserved Iron Age towers that are among the best examples in Scotland. Dun Telve and Dun Troddan.
Sandaig
The inspiration for 'Ring of Bright Water', once home to the author Gavin Maxwell. Golden coral sands await you. Otters too if you're lucky! Approximately 4 miles from Glenelg.
Stunning Viewpoints
There are many views that will leave you speechless in the area. Crossing with our ferry guarantees several opportunities to stop the car and shout "wow"!
Walk Highlands
Glenelg is an excellent base for both the mountains on Skye and the Kintail range. Beinnn Sgritheall at Arnisdale is out very own local munro. There's a fantastic amount of detail on walkhighlands.co.uk
Shore Station
Above the slipway on the mainland our brand new Shore Station features a café and shop. We've outside seating and we're open all season.
Travel to Skye on the last manually operated turntable ferry in the world
Travel over the sea to Skye
The last stretch– take the last manually operated turntable ferry across the narrows to the Isle of Skye. Our ferry runs all season from April to October. No need to book ahead, just arrive and buy a ticket on the ferry. We sail every 20mins approximately.
Arrive on Skye
The Isle of Skye is a large island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. It is the second largest island in Scotland after Lewis and Harris, and is known for its rugged landscapes, picturesque fishing villages, and medieval castles. The island is also home to a number of popular tourist attractions, including the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, and the Cuillin Mountains.
The Isle of Skye is a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and fishing. The island is also home to a number of historical sites. The Isle of Skye is a beautiful island that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for stunning scenery, history, or outdoor activities, you will find it over the sea on Skye.
