C1237 (Highland)

This article is about the Class III road numbered C1237 maintained by Highland Council.
For other roads numbered C1237, see C1237.

The C1237 is a rightly famous route, amongst mountaineers at least, as it leads down Glen Brittle, from where the easiest ascent of much of the Black Cuillin ridge can be made. It can therefore be a very busy route in the summer months, hampered by being almost entirely single track, with both day visitors and those camping or staying at the youth hostel using the road. It is also popular amongst the more sedentary tourists, as it offers fine views of the mountains, and the beach at the end offers views out to sea as well as being one of the best sandy beaches on Skye.

The road starts on the B8009 near Carbost, at an awkward forked junction where the fork points away from the A863 and towards the dead end of the B road. The C1237 is almost entirely single track as it winds its way down Glen Brittle, widening only on bends and for the numerous passing places. Much of the glen is forested, and there are car parks and walks available for those who think the mountains are too strenuous a challenge! The glen is surprisingly shallow, meaning that there are only occasioanl glimpses of the sea at the end, although the majestic Cuillin are always in view! Eventually, the few houses of the village are reached, and as the road wiggles through, the sea comes into view. It is then just a short drive to the beachside car park, with the campsite beyond.