Best Walks on Skye: Macleod’s Tables
An incredible walk which can be started from and finished in Dunvegan, exploring the two iconic hills which bring remarkable character to this beautiful area’s horizon line.
Summary
There is almost no point around Dunvegan from Glendale to Claigan to Uiginish or Ullinish where the view is not dominated by the twin tables. They are a formidable sight rising steeply to a flat plateau. Often draped in cloud, they make fine photography subjects.
The two tables walk is the hardest walk from Skye Lodge; it takes some preparation and commitment as well as a need to be able to navigate. The walk is boggy over pathless terrain and even on the best day not to be undertaken lightly. If you decide to go for it, make sure you’re ready and let someone know about your plans. That being said, the walk is completely worth the endeavour!
Hike
Total 14 km
Pathless more and hill
Bog factor - High
Difficulty level – high
Packing
Map, compass
Lunch
Walking stick
Waterproofs
Dry sack for electronics
Phone, powerbank, cables
Directions
Leave Skye lodge turning right onto the coastal road and continue to the crossroad. Turn right and continue past the large building then turn left onto the farm track to Osdale. There is no path past the house. Cross the fields and head into the moor aiming for the base of the hill.
From here, up is the only direction. Pick a route to avoid the crags. Although it is steep it is not technical and pretty soon you will find your self standing at the top. The actual top is marked by a cairn on the western side of the “table”. The top is surprisingly boggy.
To continue to the South table, you’ll be able to see An Sgurran and Beinn na h-Uamha below and it’s a matter of picking your way down and avoiding the worst of the wet bits before taking on the taller South table.
Again, finding your way up avoiding the worst of the crags, there is no best way or path. The top has a couple of cairns the easterly one of has some shelter if needed.
A small pile of rocks at the east end marks the descent and a faint path. This is the most hair-raising section, but it is soon over and you start the long moorland walk following the spur to Creagan Dearga. The problem now is too many paths which cross each other and fade out. Make sure you do not end up following the path to Orbost. Join the Orobost road at Cnoc a’ sga and follow it down home to Dunvegan.
Note that If you are feeling brave there is a track starting between the dun and old sheildings that brings you back opposite the road toward Dunvegan.
Views along the way
Highlights
A different perspective. You’ll see these iconic wee hills for most of your time at Dunvegan - it’s lovely to see them up close, then glance back at them in the evening or next day and remember your time up there.
Photo opportunities. If you’re looking for a choice photo of you and your family with a stunning backdrop, this is the walk to get it on! The peaks themselves also make fascinating subjects.
Looking to stay on Skye? Stay with us in Dunvegan. Contact us on 07484228711 / 01470 521387 or email info@skyelodge.co.uk.
Skye Lodge: a spectacular accommodation house with stunning views situated beside Loch Dunvegan, offering families, groups and couples the perfect base to explore - and be inspired - by Skye and beyond.