Neist Point Lighthouse Walk, Isle of Skye

Neist Point is the westernmost tip of Skye and the lighthouse perched on the end of its flat basalt headland is one of the most dramatically positioned in Scotland. The walk descends from the car park on a stepped path to the headland level before following the cliff edge to the lighthouse, with the Atlantic opening to the west and the cliffs dropping sharply to the sea on three sides. Seabirds, including fulmars, guillemots and shags, nest on the cliff faces, and minke whales and common dolphins are regularly spotted from the headland between May and September. The views to the Outer Hebrides on clear days are considerable.

Dogs are welcome at Neist Point, but the unfenced cliff edges demand leads throughout. This is not a walk for dogs that pull strongly or are unsteady on their feet near drops. Off-lead potential is very limited given the terrain. Some grazing land is crossed on the approach, adding further reason to keep dogs controlled. The lighthouse buildings are not open to visitors. The stark beauty of the headland and the oceanic scale of the views make this worth the journey to the far west of the island even for those visiting primarily for their dog. The road to the point is single-track with passing places and can be congested in peak season.