Oronsay Island

A stunning walk that crosses a tidal causeway from Ullinish to Oronsay Island. The stone causeway has sand each side which makes the water look tropical blue in the right light. The Island has high cliffs that dramatically drop to the sea making it an interesting place to explore. Just take care to get your tide calculation correct so you do not get stranded.

The walk is 3km in total and takes on average 40min to complete not including time to explore the Island. The walk is graded as Difficult due to the wet moorland and causeway. The stone is rough to walk over and you must check the tides carefully.

Location

The walk is 12.5miles from Portree via the B885 to Struan. There is a small carpark at the end of the Ullinish single track road with space for about 5 cars.

Weather

After wet weather, the ground can become boggy in places. On the Island there are high cliffs that should be avoided in windy conditions.

Tides

The causeway is tidal meaning that when the tide is high the causeway is covered by the sea. If the tide is lower than 3.8m then you can cross the causeway. You must time your visit to the Island carefully so that you do not get stranded.
The nearest port with tide times is Loch Harport. Tide times can be found on the Tides Chart website.

Stage 1

The walk begins through one of four gates. Please note the signs by the gate. You are entering crofting land where cattle and sheep will be grazing. All dogs must be kept on the lead and all gates carefully closed behind you.
Follow the rough stone path just to the left of the first gate where you will reach a second gate. The next part of the path is a mix of stone and grassland. Follow the undulating path across the field and towards the hill. Ahead you will see the next gate.

Stage 2

Once through the gate continue to follow the rough gravel path up towards the small grassy cliff top. Follow the shore along past the gorge bushes.
To the west you will see amazing views over Loch Bracadale and Wiay Island, to the east, Ardtreck Point and lighthouse, and to the south the township of Fiscavaig.

You will reach a small rocky section which climbs up the hill. After a short while the hill levels out and becomes boggier. There are many grassy trails, but the main route is easy to find. Carry on along the path until you reach the next gate which overlooks the causeway.

Stage 3

Head down to the causeway, the path is rocky and rather steep. The path narrows through the rocks then opens onto the shore. The causeway is 220meters across. Take care crossing as it can be challenging underfoot. It is made from a mix of small pebbles and larger rocks. When the tide is low there is sand each side of the causeway.

Oronsay Island

Explore this stunning Island. Take care near the edges of the cliffs as there are some large drops. This would not be a suitable walk for children or for those who do not like heights.
Make sure to return in plenty of time before the tide comes in leaving you stranded.