Inverarish

Three intriguing forest trails to inspire the senses 

This little forest punches well above its weight. Inverarish is only a mile wide yet is packed with inviting trails, fascinating history and unbelievable views. You can visit the ruins of an Iron Age broch, follow in the footsteps of German prisoners of war, and see the impressive remains of Raasay's iron ore industry.

Why not escape the busy roads of Skye and head here for the day by boat? The forest surrounds the area to the north and east of Inverarish village, near where the ferry arrives, so it's easy to access on foot.

However, do come prepared... While the ruggedness and remoteness of this wonderful little island is a primary reason to visit, it does mean facilities are limited. Bring clothes for all weathers and a packed lunch just in case. And don't forget to top up your car if you plan to explore the island afterwards - the nearest petrol stations are back in Broadford or Portree on Skye!

Walking trails

Inverarish route card (PDF)

Walking

Burma Road and the Miners' Trail

Discover Raasay’s iron mining history and follow the line of its dismantled railway across the hillside above Inverarish.

Sections of rough grass and earth paths with narrow parts. One long steep slope and long sets of rough rocky steps. Two gates, several muddy sections and a road section.

2 ½ miles / 3.9 km

Allow
1½ hours

More information

During the First World War nearly 300 German prisoners of war worked in Raasay's iron ore mines. Two mines were built but only the top mine (No 1 Mine) was actively worked. You can follow the dismantled railway line from this mine to the processing works at East Suisnish.

The easiest access for the hill trail to Dun Cana starts at the main car park (No 1 Mine). You can start from the main car park at Mine No 1 or from a smaller car park at Mine No 2, near Henderson's Bridge.

Walking

Temptation Hill and Dun Borodale Broch

Climb up Temptation Hill for fine views across the Sound of Raasay towards Skye, and discover Dun Borodale Broch and Loch a’ Mhuillin on the way. Return via the Emigrants’ Walk, Inverarish village and along the shore path to the ferry.

Mostly firm gravel and tarmac surface. Uneven earthy and grassy sections, with narrow and muddy parts. One long steep slope. Includes some steps, gates and short sections along roads.

2 ½ miles / 4.0 km

Allow
2 hours

More information

The distance and time allowance shown here are for the full circuit, including the suggested return along the shore path (not waymarked or on FLS land).

Walking

Coastal path and Orchard Wood

Follow Raasay’s rugged coastal shore round the headland and look for seals and otters in North Bay, before returning via Orchard Wood and Loch a’ Mhuillin.

Rough, narrow grass and earth paths. Some rocky and muddy sections. One long steep slope and some rock steps. Includes some gates and sections along the road.

2 ¾ miles / 4.5 km

Allow
2 hours

More information

The distance and time allowance shown here are for the full circuit, including the suggested return along the coastal path (not waymarked or on FLS land).

Facilities and access

Walking

Viewpoint

Picnic area

Ancient monument

You'll enjoy Raasay best if you have boots, clothes for all weathers and an Ordnance Survey map. If you're visiting for the day, bring food too as you may not be near somewhere to eat when you need it. There are public toilets at the ferry terminal as you arrive.

There's no bus on the island, so to explore the north end you'll need a bike or a car. There's no petrol station either, so make sure you have enough fuel.

Getting here

The ferry for Raasay leaves from Sconser on the east coast of Skye and arrives on Raasay about a mile (1.6 km) from the village of Inverarish.

To reach the main car park at No 1 Mine, leave the ferry terminal and turn right at the junction towards Inverarish village. Follow the road past the village for 1½ miles (2.4 km) until you see the car park sign.

If you want a quick, short walk with a good view, you could start at the small cemetery car park run by the council. Follow the road from the ferry terminal and turn right at the junction. Almost immediately turn left up the hill beside the hotel and follow the road to the cemetery. 

Using SatNav?

IV40 8NT is the nearest postcode for the main car park at No 1 Mine and IV40 8PB is the nearest for the cemetery car park.

Public transport

There is no public transport on Raasay.

Get directions