Monday, 20 December 2021
Please note:
Kylerhea
Where we are
Latest forest information
Forests all across Scotland have been seriously affected by recent storms. We are doing everything we can to make our forests safe for visitors, communities, forest businesses and our staff. However, many of our forests remain closed while others have significant diversions and access restrictions for the foreseeable future. Please keep safe and follow all closure notices and safety signage.
Take care on or around open water. Find out more on our Water Safety page.
About
The perfect place for a bit of otter-spotting
This is one of the best places in Britain to spot otters and other marine mammals.
The sheltered hide is easy to get to, along a short, interesting trail. Inside you'll find fascinating facts about otters, dolphins, sharks and more.
All sorts of mammals have swum in the sea around Kylerhea – including cows! Kylerhea was once an important crossing for drovers taking cattle to mainland markets. Today it's a peaceful place where you can test your knowledge on the marine mammal trail and enjoy stunning views across to Glenelg.
Walking trails
Walking
Marine Mammal Trail
A short walk along the shore to a viewing hide overlooking Kyle Rhea, one of the best places in Britain for spotting otters.
Wide, firm gravel surface throughout, with uneven and occasionally muddy sections. Includes some short fairly steep slopes.
1 ¼ miles / 2.1 km
Allow ¾ hour
More information
Most people visit the hide hoping to see an elusive otter in the wild – and many patient and lucky people do! But there's also a good chance of seeing some of Skye's other amazing wild creatures – from seals and porpoises to Britain's largest bird of prey, the white-tailed sea eagle.
Facilities and access
Grab a cuppa
The nearest place for a cup of tea is Broadford on Skye, 10½ miles (16.8 km) away, or Glenelg on the mainland (you'll need to take the summer ferry from Kylerhea to Glenelg).
As of April 2021 the toilets and hide are now open. The toilets close for the winter on October 31st, but the hide will remain open year-round
Car parking information
There is no charge to park in this car park. Please park with care and consideration. In particular please park in designated parking areas only and do not block entrances or gates.
Getting here
From the Skye Bridge take the A87 east for 3 miles (4.8 km) and turn left along a steep and winding unclassified road to Kylerhea. After about 6½ miles (7.4 km) and just before Kylerhea, turn left on a small track to reach the car park.
Using SatNav?
IV42 8NH is the nearest postcode.
Public transport
A summer ferry runs between Kylerhea and Glenelg on the mainland and is a great way to approach the forest. The car park is ½ mile (800 metres) from the slipway on the right.
The nearest bus stop is in Glenelg on the mainland, about 2 miles (3.2 km) from the Glenelg ferry terminal. You'll find timetable details at Traveline Scotland.
Nearby forests
Wander woodland trails for sweeping views across Skye
Facilities and activities
Distance from 'Kylerhea': 3.55 miles
Panoramic views over picturesque Loch Alsh
Facilities and activities
Distance from 'Kylerhea': 3.95 miles
Walk beneath the trees beside Loch Alsh
Facilities and activities
Distance from 'Kylerhea': 4.33 miles
Related articles
Friday, 17 December 2021
The UK is known for turbulent weather. Coming into winter, we expect to see higher winds, heavier rain and snow too. However, Storm Arwen was a considerable step above the usual ba...
Wednesday, 17 November 2021
This partner-run project is thought to be the first of its kind in Scotland. Through a series of environmental restoration tasks, the project's goal is to restore the Black Water o...
Monday, 11 October 2021
Get in touch
Have a question or suggestion for improvement?
Phone
0300 067 6100 (option 1)
Find out more
Share your experience
Find a forest...
View all forests