The Old Church


  • The Black Cuillin
  • The Black Cuillin from Elgol.
  • Glen Brittle Beach
  • Glen Brittle Beach.
  • The Old Church
  • The Old Church.
Surrounding area and activities

The Old Church is on a shoulder of land on the edge of the village of Torrin, with stunning views of the world famous Blaven Ridge and Loch Slapin. The cottage is just a four minute wander from the shoreline. Behind the property the Red Cuillin rear up, making this dramatic setting totally unforgettable.

A haven for wildlife

The land surrounding The Old Church and much of the Black Cuillin is owned by the Jon Muir Trust, a conservation organisation dedicated to maintaining this area of outstanding beauty, much of which is a designated site of special scientific interest. Skye is home to up to 40% of the world's grey seals, and the Black Cuillin are home to a number of breeding pairs of golden eagles. Otters live around Loch Slapin, and in the surrounding hills, wild deer roam freely. Of course it takes patience and a little luck to spot your favourite animal but, even if you're not succesful, the striking natural beauty and complete tranquility of the area can't fail to please.

For outdoor adventurers

The Black Cuillin have been a magnet for explorers, climbers and walkers for many years.

In 1772, Thomas Pennant wrote of the view from a point close to the site of The Old Church.

"The prospect to the west was that of desolation itself; a savage series of rude mountains, discoloured, black and red, as if by the rage of fire. The serrated tops of Blaven affect with astonishment: and beyond them, the clustered height of Quillan (Cuillin) . . "

Dubbed "The British Alps", climbers first started to visit in the 19th century, with the first ascent of Sgurr nan Gillean in 1836 by professor James "Glacier" Forbes - the first honorary president of the Alpine Club. Nowadays climbers and walkers alike come from across the world to experience this wild and mysterious land.

Things to do

The cottage is the perfect base for exploring the Black Cuillin. The car park used by most walkers ascending Blaven can be seen from the cottage decking. Other routes into the Cuillin are only a short drive away. Spectacular boat trips both into the Cuillin and to visit local wildlife spots to see seals, porpoises and even whales (June- September), leave Elgol regularly.

The opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts are endless and include fishing, shooting, kayaking, golf and windsurfing, as well as watching out for the plethora of birds and other wildlife.

Eating and drinking

For those wanting an evening's relaxation at the end of an action packed day, there are many excellent pubs and restaurants selling local seafood and produce. These include the nationally renowned Three Chimneys Restaurant, Lady Claire Macdonald's Kinloch Lodge and the Pasta Shed.

Of course no trip to Skye is going to be complete without a wee dram of the local whisky - head to the Talisker Distillery for their world renowned single malt. The Isle of Skye Brewery also produces a number of excellent real ales.

Please see links page for access to detailed information.