This is a must-do walk on any visit to Skye. It is not busy, there are no paths, it requires care - but the return on effort is very high.
The walk starts in Galtrigill village (NG181545). There is parking at the end of the road here, but take care to leave space for access and turning. Begin by heading up the track that goes west from the road end. It leads past some old buildings to a gate, after which it peters out. You can then easily contour round to reach and cross the Galtrigill Burn. On the north side of the burn you will find the remains of old settlement. You will pass its ruined houses, its huge area of lazy beds and its summer grazings above them, separated by an impressive headwall of turf. The headwall gives a useful route to follow towards the hill. When it runs out by some big shielings, head directly towards the 1027 ft high summit of Biod an Athair. On the summit of Biod an Athair is is the trig point known to the OS as Dunvegan Head - even though it is some two miles south of the point.
The trig itself is in what might be called an "airy" position. It is about three feet from the edge of a sheer and unfenced drop of more than 1000ft. You are braver than I am if you can get close enough to the edge to look straight down. The last time I was there, two sea eagles were sitting by the trig point as I approached, so it's well worth keeping your eyes open as you climb.
From the trig, head north along the top of the cliffs, on sheep-cropped grass and with outstanding views to Uist, until reaching Dunvegan Head itself. Return along the east coast of the peninsula and, with a little care, you will find a well concealed highlight of this area - Am Famhair.
It is a sea arch on a raised beach below the cliffs. Long detached from the cliff itself, and lifted clear of the sea, it is like some giant sculpture. But even with a map and compass it is a challenge to find. There is only one small spot on the cliff top from which it can be seen and even that is not obvious until you are right upon it. NG182558 in your GPS will help...
Altogether a highly recommended walk. The rewards in terms of views and excitement far outweigh the effort of five easy miles. But not in the mist please. Failing to find the trig and walking just three feet beyond it could spoil your whole afternoon.
