Cill Chriosd or Christ’s Church as it translates into English stands elevated above the B8083 Broadford-Torrin-Elgol road in south Skye. Now in ruins this former Parish Church is on a sight known for Christian worship since the 7th Century. Access is not wheelchair friendly as the church stands atop a small hill and there are steps and rough ground in the graveyard. However with a bit of help from me and her trusty sticks Sarah managed a steady potter around to see the sights. The view from the road is also very good.
The History of Cill Chriosd
In the 7th Century St Mael Ruba preached from atop the nearby Cnoc na-Aifhreann, The Hill of the Mass. This hill is a small knoll between the current church ruins and Loch Cill Chriosd . At this time the Parish Church was located just south of Broadford at Ashaig. However worship had taken place at Cill Chriosd. The new Parish Church was relocated to Cill Chriosd in the late Middle Ages. Written records show church activity here from 1505. The current ruins stand on top of a previous stone built church dating from the 16th century. The church remained in service until 1840 when a new Parish church opened in Broadford.
Location
Take the Elgol road out of Broadford, it is single track pretty much as soon as you leave the village. Follow the road for 2.5 miles and you will see the church on the right hand side. There is some parking and information boards opposite the church on a widened piece of road. Park here, carefully cross the road and go through the metal gate. Make sure you close the gate behind you to stop the sheep getting into the graveyard. The worn steps take you up to the remains of the church itself, which is remarkably well intact.
Take your time to wander around the graveyard, there are some beautiful Celtic gravestones. These are nestled amongst some more modern family graves. You will see some common family names appear throughout the graveyard which gives you a good idea of who lived in the area.
Behind the church rises the stony slopes of Beinn Na Caillich. To the west lies Loch Cill Chriosd, known locally as the Hairy Loch, due to the amount of long vegetation growing. The views up and down Strath Suardal go on for miles and are quite enchanting. What once was a very industrious corner of Skye is now much quieter.
Cill Chriosd is a lovely spot to stop on the long and winding road to Elgol. Pause a while and take your time, there is lots to see! You can even swing by Amy’s Place in Torrin for a bit to eat or their famous Brew with a view!