Skye’s Waternish Peninsula: Wildlife, Legends, and Clans Remembered

Dinosaur Footprints: A Window to the Jurassic Era

Brother’s Point, known in Gaelic as Rubha nam Braithrean, on the Isle of Skye, is an exceptional site for palaeontology enthusiasts and curious hikers. At low tide, an array of dinosaur footprints emerge on a limestone platform within the intertidal zone, offering a glimpse into life in the Mid-Jurassic period. The tracks, estimated to be around 170 million years old, reveal the daily movements of dinosaurs that once roamed the area. Among them are traces of massive sauropods, akin to the well-known Brontosaurus, and predatory theropods, relatives of the infamous Tyrannosaurus rex. Check out our Skye dinosaur guide for more Jurassic information.

The largest footprint on the site measures an impressive 67 cm by 50 cm. Its size points to a creature that once stood approximately 1.5 to 2 metres at the hip and could reach lengths of up to 20 metres. Evidence like this provides a tangible glimpse into the scale of these ancient giants, connecting visitors directly to our distant past. Fossil fragments such as bones and teeth have also surfaced here, with a rich ecosystem that included various species from ornithopods to ichthyosaurs, sharks and turtles. 

Navigating the Landscape: Accessing Brother’s Point

To reach Brother’s Point, visitors can start from a small car park located south of Staffin (///fabricate.touched.dorms). The hike to the point is a manageable 1.5 km each way, mostly on a well-trodden path that – in the wet – can be slippy. An initial signpost directs walkers down a steep path, passing an abandoned house with intricate stonework, worth a moment’s pause for those interested in the island’s more recent history. The path then descends to the shore near the Lonfearn Burn, where a former salmon fishing bothy leaves a reminder of the island’s more recent fishing heritage.

From the bothy, the trail becomes less defined, leading over rocky outcrops and through grazing land dotted with sheep. The hike is moderately challenging, requiring sturdy shoes due to some sections of loose rocks and boggy ground, especially after rain. A narrow ridge leads up to the summit, which may appear daunting but is manageable with a bit of caution. For those who brave the ascent, the effort is rewarded with panoramic coastal views.

Brother Point Ruins, Rock Formations, and Coastal Vistas

Brother’s Point not only attracts those interested in palaeontology but also appeals to those seeking Skye’s less-travelled coastal paths and scenic views. Visitors will find evidence of settlements, old walls, and cultivation marks. The natural surroundings offer sweeping views over the sea towards Rona and the Scottish mainland, making it an ideal spot for a quiet picnic.

The coastal walk provides numerous photo opportunities, from the layered rock formations to the wildlife populating the shoreline. On clear days, the cliffs south towards the Kilt Rock are visible. The beach itself is dotted with large stones in varying shades, remnants of volcanic rock that collect seawater in small pools when the tide is low. These tidal pools teem with marine life, creating a fascinating contrast to the ancient dinosaur tracks just a short walk away.

Practical Tips For Visiting Skye’s Brother’s Point

The Isle of Skye is known for its unpredictable weather, and Brother’s Point is no exception. Those planning to search for the dinosaur footprints should aim to arrive at low tide to increase their chances of seeing these ancient marks. Waterproof boots are advisable, as parts of the trail are muddy, particularly in the fields near the shore. Due to the coastal terrain, strong winds can create challenging conditions, so visitors should dress in layers and come prepared for sudden changes in weather.

Unlike the more popular Skye destinations such as the Fairy Pools or the Old Man of Storr, Brother’s Point is less visited. Those who venture here earlier in the day may well find themselves alone with the scenery and sounds of Skye.

Wildlife and Natural Beauty: A Quiet Coastal Retreat

Brother’s Point is home to a range of wildlife.. Seals are often seen swimming close to shore, basking sharks can also be spotted, as well as dolphins offshore. Birdwatchers may catch sight of seabirds along the cliffs, and the tidal pools are alive with small marine creatures that add a touch of coastal vibrancy.

The path through the grazing land, the gentle sound of waves, and the occasional distant bleat of a sheep create an atmosphere that hasn’t changed for centuries.