Kilt Rock (Creag An Fhèilidh) is a beautiful basalt rock formation that towers 90m over the denim-toned Sound of Raasay.
The classic picture of Kilt Rock includes the gushing Mealt Falls popping against the sea-weathered cliffs that resemble a kilt.
There is a large car park (fee) but no toilet facilities.
Getting There & Parking
Kilt Rock is a signed viewpoint straight off the A855 on Trotternish, a few minutes north of Lealt Falls. There is a car park and a railed platform, so it is one of the few big Skye sights that needs no walking at all.
That accessibility makes it perfect for anyone short on time or unable to manage the longer trails.
What to See
The cliff gets its name from its vertical basalt columns above horizontal sandstone, which together look like the pleats and pattern of a kilt. Beside it, Mealt Falls tips over the edge and drops around 60 metres straight into the sea.
On a windy day the wind can catch the falling water and there is sometimes a humming sound from the railings, which locals half-jokingly credit to the wind through the fence.
Best Time & Tips
- The railed platform is safe and needs no walking
- Wind direction changes how the waterfall behaves, so it varies by day
- Combine with Lealt Falls and the Quiraing on a northern loop
- A 15-minute stop is plenty unless the light is special
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Kilt Rock?
The cliff’s vertical basalt columns above horizontal sandstone resemble the pleats and pattern of a kilt, giving the sea cliff its name.
Do you have to walk to Kilt Rock?
No. It is a railed viewpoint right beside the car park off the A855, so it suits anyone short on time or unable to manage longer trails.
What is Mealt Falls?
Mealt Falls is the waterfall next to Kilt Rock that drops around 60 metres straight into the sea. On windy days the wind can blow the water back up the cliff.