Bothy
Suardalan
A small bothy above Kylerhea on eastern Skye, close to the old cattle droving route across the Kyle. The otter-watching hide at Kylerhea is a short walk away.
Quick facts
- Walk-in
- 3 km~1h 40m
- Sleeps
- 4
- Altitude
- 50m
- Condition
- Fair condition
- Grid ref
- NG784204
- Maintained by
- Mountain Bothies Association
- Fireplace
- Yes
- Water
- Nearby
Our take
Suardalan is the otter bothy. Walk in, drop your pack, walk to the hide, watch otters fishing in the Kyle. The bothy is basic but the wildlife access is unique. Combine with the Glenelg ferry for a scenic alternative to the Skye Bridge. One of the most family-friendly bothy experiences in Scotland.
Getting there
From the Kylerhea ferry slip (the old Skye crossing before the bridge), follow the track south then east to the bothy. Short, easy walk. Allow 40 minutes. The Glenelg–Kylerhea ferry operates Easter–October.
Nearest parking: Kylerhea ferry slip
What to expect inside
Small MBA bothy with a fireplace and space for 4. Fair condition but adequate. The setting above the Kyle of Lochalsh with views to the mainland is pleasant.
Nearby hills & attractions
Kylerhea otter-watching hide (Forestry and Land Scotland) is 1km away — one of the best places in Scotland to see wild otters. The old cattle droving route across the Kyle is historically significant. Ben Aslak (610m) rises above.
When to visit
The Glenelg ferry is seasonal (Easter–October) — winter access requires driving via the Skye Bridge. Otters are present year-round but most visible spring–autumn. Quiet even in summer.
Current conditions
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 05:32
- Sunset
- 21:08
- Civil dawn
- 04:45
- Civil dusk
- 21:55
NOAA Solar Calculator · 2 May 2026
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