A lush, beautiful, and diverse island in northwestern Scotland. Explore (and hike) the rolling hills, castles, mountains, and natural wonders. Easily reached from the mainland via the Kyle of Lochalsh bridge or ferry from Mailing.
For additional information on sites to see on the Isle of Skye, visit the following helpful website: http://www.theskyeguide.com/
Things to See:
Northwestern Skye
1) Neist Point
The western most point on the island of Skye, is home to a rundown lighthouse, rolling hills, a rocky shoreline and some beautiful views. A hearty drive on a single track road to the point.
2) Dunvegan Castle & Garden
The castle built on the rocky cliffs of Dunvegan that has been home to chiefs of the MacLeod clan. Visit the Dunvegan Castle website for additional details.
Northwest – Central Skye
3) Fairy Pools of Glenbrittle
Spend a couple of hours exploring the green hills, waterfalls and crystal blue water pools. An easy hike from the carpark will take you through the fields and along side the river. On a nice summer day, peel down to your swimsuit and enjoy a brisk dip in the rocky clear pool waters.
4) Talisker
The only scotch whiskey distillery on the island of Skye, offers tours (and tastings). Be sure to book in advance on rainy days (and sunny days), as tours fill up quickly!
5) Tattie Bogal
If you visit the island between July and September, check out the Tattie Bogal trail. As you drive towards Talisker Distillery you will see the creative scarecrows camped out along the way. Visit the Tattie Bogal website for more details.
6) Cullin Hills
The crossroads at Sligachan provide a good viewing point of the Cullin Hills and the highest summit on the island. Appears to be a starting point for some trails. Sligachan is home to decent brewery restaurant.
Northeastern Skye
7) Old Man of Storr
The jagged peak can be seen from miles away. From Portree follow the road north to Staffin about 6 miles. The base of Old Man Storr (and some other good viewing peaks) can be reached from the carpark, by following the well traveled (rocky and sometimes muddy) trail. Excellent views from the top! Allow a couple of hours for the hike, exploring, and photo opportunities.
8) Kilt Rock
Approximately another 6 miles further north from Old Man of Storr, on the road between Portree and Saffin, make a brief stop at this weathered sea cliff and waterfall. If you are in the vicinity stop, however, not worth going out of your way to see.
9) Quiraing
A scenic hike located near the northeastern side of Skye. (Between Staffin & Uig on the main road). The hike is 3 miles roundtrip (or 5 mile circle), with many beautiful points. Due to time and weather, we just drove past and were not able to stop and make the hike.
Helpful Website: http://www.theskyeguide.com/walking-mainmenu-32/13-moderate-walks/128-quiraing
10) Fairy Glen
Just by the Uig Hotel, follow the single track road towards Sheadar & Balnaknock for a mile before happening on Fairy Glen. The setting of many motion pictures, this unique landscape is best explored on foot.
Restaurants
1) Pub – Eilean Larmain (Isleornsay)
Located at the end of the road at the Eilean Larmain hotel, this quant pub serves up some tasty dishes. Often busy with both locals and tourists, it is a good location to enjoy a meal and a couple of pints, especially, if your accommodations are within walking distance!
2) Sligachan Hotel
This brewery restaurant serves up food all day long. Checkout the specials board for a good variety of food options, from soup to flatbread and thai. A selection of Scottish Ales are available on tap, not to mention a selection of Scotch Whiskey.
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Lodging Options
We found accommodations on short notice hard to find on the Isle of Skye. Through airb&b.com we were able to find a fantastic ensuite room at Gwen & Charles’ home in Isleornsay.