This walk starts just 4 miles south of Portree on the A87 by the Old Varragill Bridge. It is a linear walk of 1.5 km in total on an old forestry track, Sheltered from the wind by trees, a gentle ascent gives fabulous views to the Gaskin Burn waterfall. It is an easy to follow accessible track.
Location
Follow the A87 out of Portree past the Aros Centre. Pass the Braes turning on your left, follow the road through some S bends past Varragill House Farm. Immediately before the road narrows for the Old Varragill Bridge there is a parking space on your right. It is large enough for two or three vehicles without blocking the 5 bar metal gate. Park considerately, this is the start of your walk.
The track by the Old Varragill Bridge
With your back to the A87 look to the left of the 5 bar metal gate. You will see an old kissing gate entrance that no longer has the gate part attached. This allowed Sarah to pass through the gate without having to fold up her rollator. The track slowly climbs the edge of the hillside in front of you so just follow your nose. The incline is steady rather than steep. The surface of the track is initially very compacted planings and relatively smooth. There is also a good covering of wet pine needles so wear appropriate footwear. After two weeks of rain on Skye we managed in Doc Marten’s and waterproof trainers without getting wet feet!
One side of the track has deteriorated slightly due to water run off but we were easily able to walk side by side. About half way up you pass a lovely little waterfall on your right which passes under the track in a huge tube. After a little more uphill walking the track levels out and then rises more gently. This last section of the track is a little rockier underfoot so was a little harder for the rollator to go over but nothing insurmountable. The more level section is a bit puddly after rain but if you stick to the centre the ground is higher and you only get the soles of your shoes wet.
The waterfall!
As you pass over the Gaskin Burn look up to the hillside on your right. Here you will see the Gaskin waterfall. After heavy rain it is a spectacular sight. The track ends at the old turning area for the logging wagons. Here you get another great view of the waterfall, as well as to Glamaig in the far distance.
We paused here for a while and took in our surroundings. Then we headed back down the way we came. The track is lined with trees, both native trees and forestry conifers. This means that on a windy day you get a bit of shelter which is nice. As you return downhill you get views across to Ben Tianavaig and Portree. Take your time, enjoy the walk and drink in the fresh air.