View of Loch Coruisk and the Cuillin Ridge from Sgùrr na Stri

Here is one of Britain’s greatest viewpoints. Hikes to Sgurr na Stri take you to a rocky fortress, sensationally situated for gazing across at the Black Cuillin ridge of Skye and into the deep, wild corries below. Whilst it may only be half the height of the dark peaks that surround it, it punches way above its weight for sheer scenic grandeur.

Better yet, unlike many of the high Cuillin, Sgurr na Stri is not technically difficult, making it a popular objective for hikers. That’s not to say it is without challenge, nothing this good comes easy in life. Walking routes to Sgurr na Stri are long, either starting from Sligachan and following the river or starting from Elgol and traversing the coast to Camasunary Bay. The good news is that both approaches are magnificent.

One of Skye’s most legendary viewpoints

Once on its flanks, there are a few gabbro slabs to negotiate but there’s nothing that resembles difficult scrambling. When you reach the summit, the views are immense. The isles of Rum, Eigg and Mull can be spied due south but it is the vista to the north west that will have your jaw on the floor.

Loch Coruisk arrows straight towards a tumultuous tangle of jagged peaks and serrated ridges that rise in a great semi-circle. The magic here is that Sgurr na Stri is high enough to feel as though you are on a mountain but low enough to be completely dominated by the spectacle before you. Winter conditions only add to the drama, with Sgurr na Stri’s height rarely warranting the use of ice axes and crampons.

Portree’s assortment of gear shops, pubs, restaurants and hotels make it an ideal base if you are planning to start from Sligachan. Broadford and Torrin both host accommodation on the way to Elgol. To add variety to your adventure, you could always hop on a boat from Elgol to Loch Coruisk and access the trails from there. Beautiful Camasunary Bay has a bothy and also makes for a splendid wild camp, with the sound of the waves lulling you to sleep.