Fairy Pools facts for kids
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The Fairy Pools (known in Scottish Gaelic as Scottish Gaelic: Glumagan nan Sithichean) are a series of beautiful natural pools and waterfalls. You can find them in Glen Brittle on the Isle of Skye, Scotland. These pools are famous for their stunning, vivid aqua blue color. Many people enjoy "wild swimming" here, which means swimming in natural, outdoor places. The water is very cold, as it comes directly from mountain streams!
The Fairy Pools are located in a special area called Coire na Creiche. This name means "corrie of the spoils." A "corrie" is a natural, bowl-shaped valley often found in mountains. The pools are fed by a small stream called Allt Coir' a' Mhadaidh, which means "burn of the corrie of the wolf/dog." They sit right at the foot of the impressive Cuillin mountains.
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Discover the Magical Fairy Pools
Where Are the Fairy Pools?
The Fairy Pools are nestled in the rugged landscape of the Isle of Skye, a large island off the west coast of Scotland. This area is known for its dramatic mountains and beautiful scenery. The pools are a short walk from the Glen Brittle car park, making them easy to reach for visitors. The journey to the pools takes about 20 minutes on foot.
Amazing Wildlife and Nature
The area around the Fairy Pools is home to many different animals and plants. The landscape is mostly rocky, but you will also find some soft, boggy areas. The clear, cold water of the mountain streams creates a unique environment.
Animals You Might See
Keep an eye out for some of Scotland's amazing wildlife! You might spot large animals like red deer, rabbits, and sheep grazing nearby. The skies and shores are also busy with many birds. You could see big birds like crows, ravens, and gulls. Smaller birds also live here, such as meadow pipits, turnstones, common ringed plovers, grey herons, dunlins, and curlews.
Plants and Landscape
The plants in this area are tough and used to the cold, wet conditions. You'll see hardy grasses and mosses that thrive in the rocky and sometimes boggy ground. The natural beauty of the landscape, with its clear pools and mountain backdrop, is truly breathtaking.
A Popular Place to Visit
The Fairy Pools were once a hidden gem, not widely known to tourists. However, their beauty has made them incredibly popular over the years. In 2006, about 13,000 people visited the pools. By 2015, this number had grown to 82,000 visitors. The popularity continued to soar, with over 180,000 people visiting in 2019. Today, they are one of Scotland's most loved natural attractions.
The Story Behind the Name
The name "Fairy Pools" sounds magical, doesn't it? The first time this name appeared in a guide book was in the 1930s. Interestingly, there are no old stories or legends that directly connect fairies to these specific pools. It seems the name was given because of the enchanting and mystical feel of the place.
A Historical Event
The area around the Fairy Pools has a long history. In 1601, a historical event known as the Battle of Coire Na Creiche took place here. This event was part of the history of the clans who lived on the Isle of Skye.
