Stunning views across the Quiraing in the Scottish Highlands by Photo Henk van Dijk

This photograph was taken during a walk through the Quiraing, a spectacular mountain landscape in the north of the Scottish island of Skye. From the footpath, you look out over an impressive scene of jagged basalt rocks, green slopes and vast highlands, with the sea as a backdrop on the horizon. The combination of the rugged rock, the soft light and the vast expanse gives the landscape an almost timeless quality.

The Quiraing forms part of the Trotternish Ridge, a long mountain ridge that dominates the north of Skye. This unique landscape was created by a massive landslide, in which thick layers of basalt slid over softer rock strata. This gave rise to the characteristic steep cliffs, rock pillars and hidden valleys that make the Quiraing so distinctive. The landslide is still active; in fact, the movement of the ground means that the nearby road requires regular maintenance.

The area is home to several famous rock formations, including The Needle, The Prison and The Table. The Quiraing is one of Skye’s most beautiful walking areas and attracts walkers, nature lovers and landscape photographers every year.

This photograph captures the rugged beauty and vast expanse of the landscape, with the Atlantic Ocean forming the natural boundary of this unique part of Scotland.