Cuillin, The
(Cuillin Hills, The Cuillins)

The Cuillins
©2011 Gazetteer for Scotland

A range of mountains located in the southern part of the Isle of Skye in Highland Council Area, the Cuillin (Cuillins or Cuillin Hills) are a favourite walking and rock climbing area. The main body of the Cuillin is known as the 'Black Cuillin', with the lower 'Red Cuillin' lying just to the east. The highest peak of the group is Sgurr Alasdair which is 993m (3258 feet) in height.

There are two different theories as to the derivation of the name; one suggests the range is named after the legendary Irish hunter, Cu Chulainn, who is said to have come from Ireland to Skye in two strides. Another suggests it comes from the Old Norse word kjölen meaning ridges. This derivation gave rise to debate as to whether the hills should be referred to collectively as the Cuillin, rather than Cuillins.

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