FAQS
Frequently asked questions…
How long will the walk take?
Roughly one-and-a-half hours if you’re reasonably fit; and around
two hours if you choose to walk at a slower pace, stop for a rest at certain
points, or spend a while experiencing the lights and sounds along the
way. There is a ‘respite’ area at the top
of the Storr Woods, with toilet facilities and space to stop and look
at the views.
How fit will I need to be?
You need to be able to walk a distance of at least a couple of miles and
deal with
a fairly rapid ascent of around 1500 feet without getting into difficulties.
You also need
to be prepared to cope with wind and rain on parts of the hillside which
are fairly exposed. The fitter you are, and the more used you are to hillwalking
in Scotland,
the better you will be able to enjoy the event.
Is the event suitable for children?
The same advice about fitness, stamina and general hardiness applies to
children. They need to be able to handle the experience of being outdoors
in unfamiliar surroundings at night, and to observe audience guidelines
such as walking quietly, staying on the path, etc. Children aged 16 and
under must be accompanied by a responsible adult; and there should be
one adult for each child of 11 and under.For reasons of safety, we cannot
admit toddlers or babies in backpacks.
Is the route suitable for people with disabilities?
The path is rough and steep in parts, so it is not suitable for anyone
with walking difficulties. People with visual or hearing impairment will
not be able to experience all aspects of the event, but may still find
much to enjoy. For more specific advice phone 0141 352 7912.
Will there be any assistance if someone is finding the walk difficult?
There will be a number of trained guides walking the route with the audience,
as well as additional staff on the hillside who can provide help, support
and advice. They will have access to first aid equipment, and emergency
back-up if required.
What sort of clothing and equipment will I need?
No matter how good the weather has been, you must either wear or carry
warm and waterproof clothing. You will also need sturdy boots which provide
support for your ankles. We recommend that you bring a small backpack
with a spare jumper, hat and gloves. Other useful items include walking
poles, midge cream, and a flask with a hot drink. Everyone will be provided
with a small headtorch at the beginning of the walk – to be returned
at the end.
Will refreshments be available?
Cafés will be open at the check-in centres in both Portree and
Staffin, selling a range of hot and cold drinks and snacks.
What is the weather like at that time of year?
Extremely variable and unpredictable. Mist and rain are commonplace on
Skye, and there is the possibility of snow on the hills in any month of
the year.
What happens if the event is cancelled?
Even if the weather is bad, it may well be possible to walk roughly two-thirds
of the route, and enjoy a slightly reduced version of the event. However
gales or particularly severe weather may mean that the event has to be
cancelled – in which case every effort will be made to contact all
ticket-holders by 9pm that evening. Information will also be posted at
the check-in centres and other community facilities in north Skye; and
will be available by phoning 0141 352 7912. Cancelled event tickets will
be refunded.
Can I make my own way to the start of the walk?
No: everyone must go through the check-in process at either Portree or
Staffin, and proceed to the Storr by coach/minibus. There are no parking
facilities at the site, and we need to keep the roadside clear in order
to provide space for coaches to draw in, and access for other vehicles
in case of emergencies. We also want to minimise car pollution, and late-night
travel on single track roads.
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