Dun Caan, Isle of Raasay

Highland Walk

Maps

Walk Route Description

The Hebridean Island of Raasay lies quietly to the east of Skye and opposite the mainland area of Applecross. Often over looked due to the proximity of its bigger neighbour, Raasay hides a wealth of great walks and rock climbs together with an abundance of wildlife and history.

From across the Sound of Raasay the island gives the impression of a long undulating ridge with the only noticeable summit being that of Dun Caan - the highest point at 443m. Although of a modest height in comparison to the Skye and mainland peaks this shapely summit affords a fantastic 360 degree panorama. Views of Kintail, Applecross, Torridon, the Outer Isles and of course the Cuillin provide a great backdrop to the narrow sea channels surrounding the island.

After taking the ferry (grid ref. NG554331) from Sconser (on Skye) the walk is started by heading north along the road to Inverarish and then following directions towards the Youth Hostel. From the hostel continue along the quiet road for 2km to a path junction (Grid ref. 561405). Follow the rocky path southeast for 2km to reach the broad shoulder that is separated from Dun Caan by a great north-south trending cleft containing a narrow loch. The path up the summit cone is obvious and after a short steep section you are rewarded with the fine views. Dun Caan is surrounded by steep cliffs and the scenery to the east drops dramatically 400m to the sea in a series of steep bluffs, hiding the deserted old crofting settlement of Hallaig.

To return to Inverarish the path is retraced down to the loch before heading south alongside a further loch on a narrower and less well defined track across open moorland. This is a favourite hunting ground of the islands golden eagles. The path soon meets the Inverarish burn, winding its way down to the woodland surrounding the village. At the junction with the forest road (Grid ref. 566370) there are a choice of two routes back to the ferry. Heading left is more direct (3km) and follows the line of the old iron mine railway straight to the pier. Heading right takes you back to the village of Inverarish via an old beech woodland from where the coast road is retraced to the pier and ferry (4km).

Note - the total distance of 16km can be reduced to 9km if transport is used to road/path junction at GR 561405.

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