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11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on the Isle of Skye

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

From majestic castles to magnificent views, Scotland's famed Isle of Skye is a breathtaking paradise for hikers and nature-lovers alike. Plus, it's packed with notable tourist attractions and fun things to do.

The largest of the Inner Hebrides , this 80-kilometer-long wonderland has a rich history. Look out for dinosaur fossils, brocks (Pictish round towers), and the ruins of Viking houses as you explore the captivating countryside of this Scottish masterpiece. The island's best attractions can be attributed to Mother Nature, so be sure to give her a nod of thanks while you're touring her best works.

Skye's impeccable scenery is its most impressive feature. Peppered with untamed mountains and lush valleys, this remarkable island is a hiker's nirvana. With caves, waterfalls, beaches, and glens, explorers will find a new adventure at every turn. You'll definitely want to book a car for this trip, so you can take everything in at your own pace.

Also, be sure to pack water and snacks, as you won't be pulling over at roadside shops or gas stations. It's mostly you, the pastoral landscape, and magnificent peaks. Thankfully, commercialism hasn't yet made its mark on this illustrious isle.

Find the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions on the Isle of Skye.

2. Quiraing

3. the old man of storr, 4. kilt rock, 5. fairy pools, 6. fairy glen, 7. the skye museum of island life, 8. sligachan, 9. dunvegan castle, 10. armadale castle, 11. talisker beach, where to stay on the isle of skye for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to the isle of skye.

The picturesque town of Portree

The Isle of Skye's main town, Portree, is a fantastic base for sightseeing on the island. This bustling port revolves around its scenic harbor, complete with a picturesque rainbow of houses. There is plenty of shopping on offer and a slew of restaurants from which to choose.

A worthwhile downtime option includes catching a show, concert, or film screening at the Aros Centre . Once you're well rested, it's time to enjoy the real reason people visit this famed Isle - the unbeatable scenery.

Lealt Falls are a must-see and lie a mere 18-minute drive away. While here, take a walk up to Loch Cuithir . A bit farther astray, but definitely worth a visit, is Eilean Donan Castle . One of the most stunning castles in the UK (and that's saying a lot), Eilean Donan sits an hour's drive away. You'll have to cross Skye Bridge , which connects the Isle of Skye to the mainland.

Once you've seen Portree's best tourist attractions (and those close by), it's time to head further afield. The easiest way to explore the Isle of Skye is by letting someone else do the driving. Book the Skye in a Day from Portree tour for a comprehensive look at top sights like Kilt Rock, Fairy Glen, The Old Man of Storr, and Neist Point.

Winding road at Quiraing

Located in the Trotternish area, on the northernmost summit of Skye, Quiraing is a magnificent place steeped in both natural beauty and history. Formed by a series of substantial landslips, this area boasts abundant cliffs, rock pinnacles, and captivating plateaus. Small lakes dot the base of the craggy mountains, adding to the area's immense allure and making it one of the top attractions on the Isle of Skye.

This region is in constant motion, which is why the nearby roads require constant repair. Multiple winding trails provide walkers with ample opportunities to find the best view, although you really can't go wrong when it comes to spectacular vistas in this locale. Charge your camera because this spot is a photographer's Shangri-La.

The most famous observation point is found at the top of the Quiraing Mountain Pass , where on a clear day, you can see to the seashore. Some say villagers hid their cattle in the Quiraing's hidden nooks and crannies in an effort to protect them from Vikings.

A four-mile loop around the region will take about two hours to walk, more if you stop to appreciate the scenery. It starts in the village of Staffin or Uig but may not be a safe bet if it's too windy or misty, so check local weather forecasts before heading out.

We highly suggest bringing water and snacks along, as well as waterproof gear and comfy walking shoes.

The Old Man of Storr

Numerous legends surround a group of majestic rocks known as The Storr. Also found in the Trotternish Region, a large pinnacle is particularly breathtaking. Surrounded by its rugged siblings, The Old Man of Storr is impossible to miss. This mysterious, and some would say haunted, marvel is a popular spot to take in stupendous views, especially during midday. It's also one of the most recognizable of the top attractions on the Isle of Skye.

While some believe The Old Man of Storr to be the thumb of a giant that once lived on Trotternish Ridge , others are content with a more scientific explanation: an ancient landslide created this spectacular wonder. No matter what you think, you're sure to be impressed with the unsurpassable views and lush beauty of this northern spectacle. Pack a camera!

A mere 15-minute drive from Portree , The Old Man of Storr is accessible on foot and will take about 75 minutes and 3.7 kilometers to walk up and back down. Wear proper gear and head out early if you want to beat the crowds, especially during summer.

Mealt Waterfall and Kilt Rock

The kilt-like pattern of sedimentary and igneous rocks led to this sea-cliff's unique name. Your first glimpse of this 90-meter wonder, located on the Trotternish Peninsula, will literally take your breath away.

This dramatic cliff also boasts another of the top tourist attractions on the Isle of Skye, the Mealt Waterfall , a lavish cascade you will likely hear before you see. This impressive waterfall drops 51 meters into the Sound of Raasay , caressing the kilt-shaped basalt rock columns on its way down.

If you listen closely, you can hear the whistle made by the falls as the water crashes down. Similar to a bagpipe's eerie tunes, this whistle becomes even more dramatic on a particularly windy day. It's a long way to the sea below, so be sure to stay behind the protective barrier on the viewing platform.

The Fairy Pools

A magnificent slice of paradise is found at the foot of the Black Cuillin mountain range. Not easily spotted from the road, the spectacular Fairy Pools wow visitors who've made the easy 1.2-kilometer trek from the parking lot.

While the looming mountain range entices travelers to turn their gazes upwards, the crystal-clear water of the intricate Fairy Pools is so captivating, you'll find it difficult to keep your eyes on anything else.

Located near the village of Glenbrittle , this incredible spot is so serene, you'll almost forget that you're sharing the view with many other travelers. If you're hoping for true solitude, visit early in the morning so you can have the place to yourself.

The crisp streams, deep emerald pools, and rushing waterfalls are a photographer's dream, while the sparkling water invites the bravest of travelers to jump into its icy embrace. Others will enjoy seeing their reflections stare back at them from the pristine pools while they scramble across the rocks.

Fairy Glen

While there's no proof this enchanted spot was created by fairies, a visit to Fairy Glen will have even the biggest cynic believing in magic. Found on the west side of Trotternish near the village of Uig , Fairy Glen is utterly divine and overtly enchanting. This is one of the best tourist attractions for families on the Isle of Skye.

Grassy hills are ringed by paths worn down by the many sheep who call this ethereal land home. You'll find a ton of them wandering around the hilltops and hiding in the nooks and crannies spotted throughout the glen, bleating their welcome as you come near.

One of the tallest hills in Fairy Glen maintains its basalt top, which looks like an ancient man-made tower. Fittingly, it has been named Castle Ewan . Kids will love playing "king of the castle" from here, and chasing each other through the winding landscape in a game of tag.

A walk up these fairy-tale hills provides delightful views of a lush, charmed land you'll remember for years to come. As is the case with many of the gorgeous spots on this list, be sure you pack a camera!

The Skye Museum of Island Life

Step back in time with a glimpse of what life was like in an old Highland village. Situated in Kilmuir , The Skye Museum of Island Life features a preserved town of thatched cottages, one of which dates to the mid-19th century.

This unique museum opened in 1965 with a goal of "preserving a township of thatched cottages," and it has done so successfully. Head inside the historic homes to learn about the area's history, as well as how the settlers survived in this rugged terrain. Intricate exhibits teach visitors how the earlier villagers thatched a roof, tilled soil, made peat fires, and created tweed for blankets and clothes.

Within the museum and its cottages are the Croft Kitchen, Croft Bedroom, Barn, Weaver's Cottage, Old Smithy, and Celidh House. You'll also find everything from ancient bibles to agricultural equipment to bedding, along with incredible, sweeping vistas of the surrounding countryside.

Old stone bridge in Sligachan

The best place to witness a picture-perfect view, Sligachan lies at the spot where the Black Cuillin meets the western seaboard. Below a captivating stone bridge runs the River Sligachan , a vista made famous on the front of a gazillion postcards.

The Red and Black Cuillins (a large range of rocky mountains) rest nearby, awaiting adventurous travelers willing to climb to their ragged peaks. While climbing these mountains is one of the most popular things to do in the Isle of Skye, it can also be incredibly arduous and even dangerous, especially if the conditions aren't great. '

Plan your journey before you leave and pack appropriate climbing gear, snacks, and water. You may even want to include a hiking stick to help you stay balanced on the often slippery trails.

Not an adventurous hiker? This tiny town is devoid of shops, but it's a good jumping-off spot for easier walks, and boasts a fun playground for kids. There's also a local restaurant to help warm your body and your belly.

Dunvegan Castle

No Scottish trip is complete without a visit to a castle. The Isle of Skye's Dunvegan Castle is "the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland" and one of the best tourist attractions on the Isle of Skye. It's been home to the chiefs of the infamous Clan MacLeod for over 800 years.

This picturesque Victorian-style castle dates from the 13th century and rises from the rock. Revamped in the 19th century, it is bordered by mountains, Loch Dunvegan , gardens, and woodlands.

The castle's most famous possession is Am Bratach Sith (a.k.a. The Fairy Flag of Dunvegan). Surrounded by legends of miraculous powers, fairies, and crusaders, this prized silk flag was used as a talisman for the Macleods in battle. It is thought to have originated in Syria or Rhodes in the 4th century. If you're lucky, you'll catch the annual fireworks display in early November.

While visiting, don't miss a boat trip to see the nearby seal colony. Also close (about 4.8 kilometers away) is the straw-roofed Black House of Colbost , which offers a glimpse into life in the 1800s. Named after the peat fires that blackened the insides of houses during the 19th century, this old house is part of the small Colbost Croft Museum on the Duirinish Peninsula .

Armadale Castle

Home of the Clan Donald Centre and Museum of the Isles , Armadale Castle is one of the most visited attractions in the Isle of Skye. It, too, housed the chiefs of Clan MacDonald from the 1650s. It was burned by the government in 1690 (they were trying to convince Sir Donald MacDonald to submit to their ways), and a new house was built to take its place in the 1790s and again between 1815 and 1819.

To be frank, this isn't actually a castle, it's more of a stately home. In 1925, it was abandoned by the family only to fall sadly into disrepair. Today, it sits as part of the 20,000-acre estate on the Sleat peninsula at the southern end of the Isle of Skye. The restored gardens are spectacular, as are the nearby walking trails.

Talisker Beach

While not always voted one of the best beaches in Scotland , this magnificent beach is as unique as they come and lovely enough to entice you to stay all day. Large pebbles pepper the grey sand, while massive cliffs loom in the distance, captivating visitors with their beauty. No one would blame you for taking enough photos to overload your phone's storage.

Pack a sand pail and shovel to build sandcastles, and a picnic to enjoy on a blanket on the sand. Located on the western coast near Carbost village, Talisker Beach is an easy, and short, 1.6-kilometer walk from the parking lot, and a great place for kids and pets to frolic in the sea.

This is Scotland, though, so be prepared for chilly water. You'll want to pack a towel and a sweater, even in summer!

There's little worse than booking a less than stellar hotel, especially when your tired feet are begging for a rest. Worry not, these delightful hotels up the charm while offering unsurpassable views and service.

  • The Cuillin Hills Hotel in Portree offers a clean and comfortable spot to lay your head and a delicious breakfast complete with the requisite blood pudding.
  • Stay at the Hotel Eilean Iarmain in Sleat for a beautiful experience. From the whitewashed walls to the sensational scenery and delectable food, there's nothing to dislike.
  • The Duisdale House Hotel is also in Sleat . This boutique hotel is the epitome of style and offers travelers a luxurious stay complete with romantic gardens and an outdoor hot tub.

Getting to the Isle of Skye can be a bit of a hike, especially if you've flown into Edinburgh or Inverness. While it's easy to hire a car, most rentals are manual, which means you're out of luck if you can't drive stick. It can also feel stressful to drive along narrow, winding roads in wet conditions, not to mention do it all on a different side of the road.

Luckily, there are multiple tours available in Scotland that offer visitors a sit-back-and-relax journey to (and through) the Isle of Skye. All you have to do is hop on the bus and enjoy the scenery.

The following tours take guests on a captivating journey to Skye's most popular and breathtaking sites. Best of all, they do so at a reasonable price.

One-Day Tour from Inverness:

  • Inverness is the jumping-off point for many visitors to the Isle of Skye. Home to the closest major airport, this vibrant city is also the starting spot for the Isle of Skye Full Day Tour from Inverness . Climb aboard and spend the day learning about the isle's history, as well as seeing impressive sights like Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness, Skye Bridge, and Eilean Donan Castle.

3-Day Tour from Edinburgh:

  • Edinburgh is quite far from the Isle of Skye–over 250 miles away, in fact. Depending on which route you take, you're looking at least a five-hour car journey, if not six and a half hours. Why not leave the driving to the professionals and enjoy a 3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh ? This intimate tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the highlights of the Highlands, stopping at must-see sights like Glencoe and Loch Ness. It also includes a two-night stay in beautiful Portree.

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Visit the Isle of Skye: Top 20 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do on the isle of skye: the 20 best places to visit.

You’re going to Scotland and plan to visit the Isle of Skye during your trip?

Excellent idea!

The 2nd biggest island of Scotland features grandiose landscapes and exceptional natural sites , so no doubt you will have a memorable trip.

In order to help you plan your stay , I have created this guide of the 20 best things to do on the Isle of Skye , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit the Isle of Skye in 1, 2, 3, or 4 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

And as always, this travel guide contains all my best tips to make the most of your stay.

So, what are the best places to visit on the isle of Skye? Where to stay?

If you want to combine your visit to the Isle of Skye with a trip to the rest of Scotland, you can have a look at my detailed itineraries articles. They will allow you to easily plan your trip depending on the duration of your stay.

  • 1 week in Scotland
  • 10 days in Scotland
  • 2 weeks in Scotland

1. The Old Man of Storr

2. quiraing, 3. dunvegan castle, 4. fairy pools, 5. eilean donan castle, 7. loch ainort, 8. the cliffs and the lighthouse of neist point, 9. lealt waterfalls, 10. kilt rock and mealt falls, 11. staffin, 12. claigan coral beach, 13. caisteal maol, 14. talisker distillery, 15. armadale castle, gardens and museum, 16. skye museum of island life, 17. elgol and loch coruisk, 18. fairy glen, 19. sligachan bridge, 20. duntulm castle, lewis and harris, how many days to visit the isle of skye, isle of skye in 2 days, isle of skye in 3 or 4 days, where to stay on the isle of skye, visit the isle of skye from inverness, visit the isle of skye from edinburgh, visit the isle of skye from glasgow, how to get to the isle of skye, best time to visit the isle of skye, tourist map of the isle of skye.

  • You’re traveling to Scotland? These articles will help you!

Visit the Isle of Skye: All Must-See attractions

The Old Man of Storr is probably the most famous point of interest on the Isle of Skye, and could even be considered as the symbol of the island.

This 50 meter tall vertical rock is located on the Trotternish ridge, in the north of the Skye. This monolith is reminiscent of a man’s head and served as a landmark for sailors for several centuries.

When you will be there, you will have 2 options: You can either admire it from the road or go to the foot of the rock with a 2 hours hiking trail (round trip).

The Old Man of Storr is also know to be one of the best photo spots of the Isle of Skye : the site is splendid and offers amazing viewpoints over the Trotternish peninsula.

Photo tip: The sunrises are especially spectacular , so if you’re a photography enthusiast, try to wake up early, it’s worth it!

However, the Old man of Storr hike is the most popular of the island , so it’s quickly full during the high season!

Old Man of Storr

Let’s continue this guide of the best places to visit on the Isle of Skye with the Quiraing mountain range , located in the north of the island.

The most famous viewpoint is accessible from the main road along the coast . A small single track road leads to a large car park from where you can enjoy the view over the hills covered with moors and peat bogs.

The car park is also the starting point for several hikes featuring stunning views over Staffin Bay . The view of Quiraing and Trotternish Ridge is one of the most beautiful panoramas of Skye !

With its Mountains, moorland and rock formations, the place is beautiful at any time of the day. For photography , the best is to come in the morning and at the end of the afternoon , as the low sun enhances even more the reliefs.

Quiraing

Even if the Isle of Skye is especially famous for its beautiful landscapes, it also features a few castles to visit (we are in Scotland after all!).

Built on the edge of Loch Dunvegan, Dunvegan Castle and its gardens are one of the must-see sights on the Isle of Skye.

There, you can admire a beautiful collection of paintings, the treasures of the MacLeod clan and the famous Fairy Flag , said to have magical properties.

From Dunvegan, you will also have the opportunity to go on a boat excursion to observe the seals that have taken up residence not far from there.

You can find all the information to visit the castle such as timetables and prices on the official website.

Dunvegan Castle

The Fairy Pools are, as the name suggest, one of the most enchanting places to visit on the Isle of Skye.

To get there, you will need to park your car at the Fairy Pools car park , the starting point of the short hike leading to the waterfalls.

You will arrive at the first waterfall (the biggest) in about 20 minutes. You will have to continue on the path to reach several other waterfalls that successively flow into crystal clear pools of water .

On a clear day, the Cuillin Hills appears in the background and makes the landscape even more magical. Under the sun, the turquoise waters of the pools will remind you of a tropical landscape!

If you’re lucky enough to be there on a sunny day, the Fairy Pools are the perfect place to enjoy a picnic!

Isle of Skye Fairy Pools

To be precise, Eilean Donan Castle isn’t really on the Isle of Skye. It’s actually located just before the bridge leading to the island.

People generally visit this castle when going to or coming back from Skye.

This very famous medieval Scottish castle has been used as a filming location in numerous movies. Linked to the mainland by a beautiful stone bridge , Eilean Donan Castle is authentic, very photogenic, and has a rich history.

So don’t forget to stop there if you go to Skye by car!

You won’t have any problem to park, as there is a huge car park nearby. Eilean Donan Castle is a major tourist attraction in the surroundings of the Isle of Skye.

If you don’t want to visit the castle, you can always admire it from the shore and take beautiful pictures of the most photographed castle of Scotland.

Information to visit the castle can be found on the official website.

You’re going to Isle of Skye?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Isle of Skye on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Isle of Skye.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Isle of Skye, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Isle of Skye!

chateau d'Eilean Donan

Portree, the biggest city of the island, is a great place to stay on the Isle of Skye.

There, you will find many hotels, restaurants and shops and its central location will allow you to easily access most tourist attractions.

This seaside village most iconic feature is for sure its colorful houses lined up along the waterfront. The port is a nice place to go for a walk , but people come to Portree mainly for shopping, eating and sleeping.

I will give you my suggestions of the best places to stay in Portree at the end of this article, in the “Where to stay on the Isle of Skye” section.

From the port, you can also go on a boat trip to observe the local marine fauna .

If you don’t want to drive and prefer to visit the Isle of Skye with a 1 day guided tour , the best one is starting from Portree. You can book it here:

And if you prefer to visit the Isle of Skye with a multi-day guided tour from Inverness, Edingburgh or Glasgow , I will give you the best ones at the end of this guide, in the “best guided tours to the Isle of Skye” section.

Portree

You can’t really miss Loch Ainort during your trip to the Isle of Skye, as it’s located along the main road of the island.

Surrounded by the Cuillins Hills , it’s a very nice photo spot to stop by along the way!

On the shores, you can also find the very small village of Luib.

Loch Ainort is rarely mentioned on tourist maps, but it’s an exceptional site that you shouldn’t miss when heading to Portree.

Loch Ainort

Your trip to the Isle of Skye wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Neist Point, one of the most famous tourist attraction of the island.

Located at the extreme West of Skye, the cliffs of Nest Point are quite isolated. The only road leading there is a single track road of several kilometers.

From Portree, it will take you about 1 hour driving to get there (sometimes a bit more during the high season, when many other tourists are going there too!), but it’s definitely worth the small effort.

At the end of the road, you’ll arrive at a small car park and a viewpoint offering a superb view over the cliffs, the bay and the lighthouse built at the very end of the peninsula.

And if you’re up for a hike, you can take a trail to get close to the lighthouse. It will take you about an hour’s walk to get there . You will love it!

Isle of Skye

Lealt waterfalls is another great place to visit on the Isle of Skye.

It’s located on the north-east coast of Skye , only 8 km from the Old Man of Storr.

First, you will need to park your car at Lealt falls car park .

Then, follow the trail for a short and easy walk that will take you to the waterfalls . There are several viewpoints along the way, and you should really take the time to go all the way down to discover the splendid views of the waterfalls falling between 2 cliffs.

To enjoy Lealt waterfalls at its best, you should ideally go there after an heavy rain and in the morning, when the sun light shines on the waterfalls.

Lealt Falls

You’re wondering where to go on the Isle of Skye?

Then head to the cliffs of Kilt Rock and the Mealt Falls , the famous 60-metre high waterfall that flows straight into the sea. It’s also located along the east coast, a bit further north Lealt Waterfalls.

The place takes its name from a part of the cliff, located further north of the waterfall, whose large basalt columns are reminiscent of the folds of a kilt .

Kilt Rock is a very touristic place , so you shouldn’t expect to be alone there, especially in high season.

Nevertheless, it is a unique natural site that is well worth a visit!

kilt rock

Also located in the North of the island, Staffin and its pretty beach is a pleasant place to stop at during your road trip on the Isle of Skye.

At the exit of the village of Staffin, you can follow the road that goes to the sea to discover a small beach surrounded by cliffs .

In the village of Staffin, you can also visit the Staffin Fossil Museum. It features a collection of fossils and dinosaur footprints housed in a charming stone cottage.

Traces of dinosaurs were indeed discovered a few decades ago in Staffin Bay and you can even observe them directly on the beach, in front of the museum.

Staffin bay

You may not know it, but the Isle of Skye also features amazing beaches.

The most famous one is for sure Claigan Coral beach: with its turquoise water and white sand, it will probably remind you some of the best tropical beaches of Thailand or Mauritius .

You wouldn’t expect to see this kind of landscape in Scotland!

The small car park of Claigan Coral Beach is located a few kilometres north of Dunvegan . Park your car and walk about 30 minutes to reach the beach .

Claigan Coral Beach

During your trip on the Isle of Skye, you can also go to Caisteal Maol , sometimes also called “Castle Moil”.

The ruins of this castle are located on a small hill near Kyleakin village , close to the bridge that connects the Isle of Skye to the mainland.

You can admire the remains of Caisteal Moal from the village or go for a walk around the castle. The 3.5 km walk (round trip) will take you about an hour and a half.

The site is rarely visited by tourists , which makes it even more enjoyable!

Caisteal Maol

If you have visited all natural wonders of the island and wonder where to go on the Isle of Skye , you can head to Talisker distillery .

It’s actually the only whisky distillery of the island!

Located near the town of Carbost, on the west coast of Skye, the Guided tours with tastings will allow you to learn more about the fabrication of Scotland’s most famous beverage.

If you decide to go to the distillery, you should also go to Talisker Bay , a great beach to enjoy the sunset.

Talisker Distillery

During your trip to Skye, you can visit the town of Armadale .

If you go to the Isle of Skye by ferry boat from Mallaig harbor , you will arrive directly in Armadale.

Located in the very south of the island , this village is especially renowned for its beautiful Armadale Castle, also featuring gardens and a museum.

You can easily go to the castle on foot from the small port where ferry passengers disembark. Simply follow the signs  and you will be there in about 10 minutes.

Inside you will be able to discover:

  • A very well done museum on the history of the MacDonald clan.
  • Huge gardens with children’s playgrounds and beautiful hundred years old trees
  • The ruins of Armadale Castle , to be admired from the outside as access is prohibited due to the risk of rock falls and collapse.

Armadale Castle

If you are looking for a cultural activity to do on the Isle of Skye, you can go visit the the island’s museum !

This museum, located in the small town of Kilmuir (north of the island) consists of several 19th and 20th century Scottish cottages to visit. This original and really interesting visit allows you to discover the modest life of the island’s inhabitants in the past.

The furniture and tools on display in the reconstructed houses will plunge you into the daily life of 100 years ago.

An interesting place to visit during your tour in Scotland and the entrance fee is only £2.5!

Skye museum of Island Life

Let’s continue this Isle of Skye travel guide with the village of Elgol.

This small isolated fishing village is located on the west coast of the island.

To get there, you will have to take the beautiful B8083 one way road that offers spectacular views over the Cuillins Mountains.

From the village, boat trips are organized to Loch Coruisk as well as near the islands of Eigg, Rum and Canna . During the boat tour, with a bit of luck, you might see a few seals or even whales!

elgol

Fairy Glen , in the north of the Isle of Skye, is a fairy tale landscape featuring Green valleys, miniature mountains , zigzagging rivers and more!

You would almost expect to see elves coming from behind the hills, as the place really seems to be straight out of a fairy tale.

Located near Uig village , at the end of a small single track road, Fairy Glen’s short trail will allow you will discover several viewpoints. A truly magical sit e that you shouldn’t miss during your stay on Skye.

Fairy Glen

Sligachan bridge is a mythical place of the Isle of Skye. It’s located close to the main road of the island, so you will inevitably pass nearby while going up towards the North in direction of Portree.

Sligachan Old Bridge is a very busy and photogenic place. The stone bridge stands majestically over the river and the Cuillin Hills in the background make the whole landscape even more enchanting.

A large car park, picnic tables and even a pub have been set up nearby.

Sligachan Bridge

Perched on the edge of the cliff, the ruins of Duntulm Castle (a fortress belonging to the MacDonald clan until 1716) are only a 5 minute drive from the Skye Museum of Island Life.

Don’t missing it during your road trip in the North of the Isle of Skye!

The mystical scenery of this picturesque place and the wind gusts (sometimes very strong, you will have to be careful when you will be on the cliff) give this castle a very mysterious atmosphere.

Duntulm Castle is located in the very north of the Trotternish peninsula , featuring the most beautiful landscapes of the island. You will see, the views from the cliffs are breathtaking!

Unfortunately, you can’t visit the ruins because of the risk of collapse , but the walk in the surroundings is superb.

Duntulm Castle

The best things to do around the Isle of Skye

You will probably combine your visit to the Isle of Skye with a trip in the rest Scotland .

Whether you arrive in Glasgow or Edinburgh , here are my itineraries recommendations to visit Skye as well as the Highlands , Loch Ness or Trossachs National Park for example:

From Skye , you can also take a ferry in the small town of Uig to reach Lewis and Harris island.

This other beautiful Scottish island (the largest British island after Great Britain and Ireland) is famous for its superb white sandy beaches and impressive prehistoric menhirs .

Just like Skye, Lewis and Harris is especially famous for its splendid wild landscapes . It’s one of the most popular places to visit around the Isle of Skye!

The Isle of Skye can also easily be combined with a visit to Mallaig, the small fishing port and departure point of the ferries to Skye.

On the way to or from Skye, you can spend at least half a day in Mallaig to have lunch in one of its very good restaurants and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of the small port.

You can also admire the Jacobite Express steam train, which stops at Mallaig station every day at lunchtime.

If you’re doing a road trip in Scotland, you should really take the superb road between Mallaig and Fort William to enjoy exceptional landscapes.

Jacobite express Scotland

The Isle of Skye may not be very big, but it features many exceptional sites to discover .

In my opinion, 2 full days is the minimum to get a good overview of the island. Even if the distances between the tourist attractions are relatively small, you will need to drive slowly due to the single track roads and number of other tourists during high season.

If you have the possibility, you should stay 3 to 4 days on the Isle of Skye . You will then have time to visit all the must-see attractions of this guide!

For your first day on the island, you should:

  • Cross the Skye bridge (close to Kyle of Lochalsh town) to get to the island
  • Stop by Sligachan Old Bridge, the magnificent stone bridge crossing a river with the Cuillin Hills mountain range in the background
  • Continue on the road (about 20 minutes) to the Fairy Pools.
  • After your visit, get back to your car and drive north to Dunvegan Castle
  • If you have the time, head to Neist Point to admire the sunset
  • Spend the evening and night in Portree

The next morning, for your second day on the Isle of Skye :

  • Take the A855 road along the coast.
  • Stop at the Old Man of Storr
  • Drive to Kilt Rock and its waterfall that flows directly into the ocean
  • Continue north to reach Quiraing and its magnificent panoramas over the Staffin Bay
  • Then stop at Duntulm Castle to admire the ruins of the castle
  • Visit the Skye Museum of Island Life
  • You can also go for a walk at Fairy Glen
  • Go back to Portree
  • If you’re in a hurry, you can return to the mainland in the evening (via the Skye bridge or by taking the ferry in Armadale). Otherwise, spend one last night in Portree and leave the next morning.

Visit Isle of Skye

While 2 full days on the Isle of Skye will give you an excellent overview of the island, spending 3 or 4 days there will allow you to visit all the must-see attractions and really soak up the atmosphere of the place.

Here is a 3 days itinerary, you can easily adapt it for 4 days depending on your pace. For this itinerary, I assume you arrive by road and leave by ferry boat.

  • About 10 km before the Skye bridge , stop at the Eilean Donan Castle for a quick visit or just to admire it
  • Cross the bridge
  • Stop at Caisteal Maol (5 minutes from the bridge)
  • Continue on the A87 and stop at Loch Ainort for a nice photo.
  • From there, drive for about 20 minutes to reach Sligachan beautiful stone bridge
  • Head to Portree, where you can visit the small town and have lunch
  • Continue north to reach the Old Man of Storr in just 15 minutes.
  • Lealt Falls is then not far away
  • Then, go to Kilt Rock and the magnificent Mealt waterfall
  • You can stop by Staffin beach and then head to Quiraing
  • Spend the night in Portree.
  • Drive to the ruins of Duntulm Castle
  • Continue to the Skye Museum of Island Life for a short cultural visit
  • Then head to Fairy Glen
  • After your visit, you will then have a little over an hour’s drive to reach Dunvegan Castle
  • Go admire Claigan Coral Beach (15min drive from Dunvegan)
  • End the day Nest Point to enjoy the sunset.
  • Start with a visit to Dun Beag Broch (an Iron Age historic site)
  • Stop at the Talisker Distillery . For those of you who aren’t interested in whisky at all, you can instead go admire the magnificent Talisker bay and enjoy Carbost beach, located near the distillery.
  • Drive to the Fairy Pools, where you can spend some time and have a picnic
  • Go to Elgol. It will take you around 1 hour on beautiful mountain roads to get there.
  • To end the day, you can go to Armadale and visit Armadale castle and its gardens
  • It’s then time to take the ferry back to Mallaig, on the mainland.

The Isle of Skye being very touristic, I strongly advise you to book your accommodation as early as possible. Here are those offering the best value for money!

  • Portree Youth Hostel: Youth hostel located in the center of Portree. Dormitory bed from 23€. Strong points: ideal location, cleanliness, staff. The best Youth Hostel of the island!
  • Sky Lodges: Located at 2.9 km from Portree. You will stay in small, well-equipped and tastefully decorated wooden chalets starting at 130€ per night. Strong points: the ecological concept, the modern facilities, the cleanliness.
  • Cuillin Hills Hotel: Located in a 6 hectare estate facing the bay of Portree. Double room with traditional decoration from 210€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the magnificent view, the succulent meals, the charming staff. My favorite hotel for its excellent location on the Isle of Skye!
  • Skeabost House Hotel: Located on Loch Snizort, in Portree. Very cosy double room with view on the park or Loch from 270€, breakfast included. Strong points: the superb view, the comfort of the rooms, the very warm atmosphere, the golf course. This is my recommendation for a romantic stay on the Isle of Skye!

Road trip Isle of Skye

The best guided tours to the Isle of Skye

You’re going to Scotland and would prefer to visit the country with a guided tour?

No problem!

In order to help you out, I have selected the best guided tours to the Isle of Skye and its surroundings depending on your city of departure and duration of your stay.

For all the details and to book them, you simply have to click on the orange links below.

Here are the best guided tours to the Isle Of Skye from Inverness:

  • 1 Day – Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle
  • 1 Day – Isle of Skye and Fairy Pools
  • 2 Days – Discover the best of the Isle of Skye: The best choice to visit the island and its surroundings in 2 days (also includes Eilean Donan Castle)

You can also visit the Isle of Skye, the Highlands and more with a guided tour from Edinburgh . All the tours below include Skye.

  • 3 Days – Isle of Skye, Highlands and Loch Ness
  • 4 Days – Isle of Skye, Highlands, Mallaig: Also includes Glenfinnan viaduct as well as the ferry boat from Mallaig to the Isle of Skye
  • 5 Days – Best of Scotland: The best 5 days tour that includes the Isle of Skye!
  • 5 Days – Best of Scotland + Jacobite Express steam train: The perfect trip if you also want to enjoy a ride in the Jacobite Express, also known by Harry Potter fans as Hogwarts Express!
  • 6 Days – Best of Scotland + Off the beaten track islands: Looking for the most amazing 6 days trip to Scotland? It’s this one!
  • 3 Days – Isle of Skye, Highlands and Loch Ness: The best 3 days Isle of Skye tour from Glasgow!
  • 5 Days – Best of Scotland +  Jacobite Express steam train : You’ve got 5 days? Then you should opt for this one.

Visit the Highlands

To get to the Isle of Skye, the easiest is to rent a car as soon as you will arrive in Scotland, either in Edinburgh or Glasgow . Without a car, it would be impossible to visit all the places I’m talking about in this guide.

The only access to the island by road from the mainland is via the Skye bridge , close to Kyle of Lochalsh town.

  • From Edinburgh , the journey will take you about 4h45 .
  • From Glasgow it will take around 4h30

You can also reach the Isle of Skye by sea.

To do so, you will have to go to Mallaig and take the ferry boat . The ferry journey takes about 40 minutes and will take you to Armadale . You can of course take the ferry with your rental car.

It takes about 4h20 to reach Mallaig from Edinburgh and 3h40  from Glasgow .

If you already know your travel dates, you should book your car now to get the best price . Simply click on the button below to compare car rental prices on the Isle of Skye:

As everywhere in Scotland, the climate on the Isle of Skye is humid and often quite cold.

In late spring and summer (mid June to September), the temperatures are pleasant. However, it’s the high season, so you will for sure meet lots of other tourists during your stay! The best hotels are thus all fully booked months in advance.

During this season, the Midges (a kind of hungry Scottish mosquitoes living in wetlands) may also bother you. So if possible, it’s best to visit the Isle of Skye at another period.

In my opinion, the best time to visit the Isle of Skye is spring, from April to the 15th of June . In spring, the days are long and there is less chance to have rain than during the rest of the year.

Autumn is also a very good season to discover Skye at its best. During this period, the island is adorned with its most beautiful colors and there aren’t many tourists. It’s however more rainy than spring.

In winter, the Isle of Skye is beautiful but the very low temperatures are more difficult to bear. The snow also restricts access to certain tourist attractions and makes hiking more difficult.

To help you visualize the island a bit better, I have made a tourist map of the Isle of Skye listing all the places to visit that I talk about in this “Best things to do on the Isle of Skye” travel guide. You can display the map’s legend by clicking on the top left button with a small arrow.

Scotland travel Guides

  • Buy the Lonely Planet Scotland guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
  • Buy the DK Eyewitness Scotland guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

You’re traveling to Scotland ? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Scotland : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Scotland are listed there.

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Visit Isle of Skye

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 1 comment.

Laurie

Very insightful and so much information about the island. I think I would need to spend more than a couple of days there. At least 3 to 4. I would definitely want to do some hiking there. So beautiful, I can’t wait to visit. Hopefully next spring.

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Must-see attractions in Skye

Sunrise at Quiraing on the Isle of Skye, Scotland.

Trotternish

Staffin Bay is dominated by the dramatic basalt escarpment of the Quiraing: its impressive land-slipped cliffs and pinnacles constitute one of Skye’s most…

isle of skye scotland tourist attractions

Dunvegan Castle

Skye’s most famous historic building, and one of its most popular tourist attractions, Dunvegan Castle is the seat of the chief of Clan MacLeod. In…

Bright Water Visitor Centre

The community-run visitor centre serves as a base for tours of Eilean Ban – the island used as a stepping stone by the Skye Bridge – where Gavin Maxwell …

Museum of the Isles

Just along the road from Armadale pier is the part-ruined Armadale Castle, former seat of Lord MacDonald of Sleat. The neighbouring museum will tell you…

Just east of Elgol is the Spar Cave, famously visited by Sir Walter Scott in 1814 and mentioned in his poem 'Lord of the Isles'. The 80m-deep cave is wild…

Skye Museum of Island Life

The peat-reek of crofting life in the 18th and 19th centuries is preserved in the thatched cottages, croft houses, barns and farm implements of the Skye…

Old Man of Storr

The 50m-high, pot-bellied pinnacle of crumbling basalt known as the Old Man of Storr is prominent above the road 6 miles north of Portree. Walk up to its…

Aros Centre

Portree (Port Righ)

On the southern edge of Portree, the Aros Centre is a combined visitor centre, book and gift shop, restaurant, theatre and cinema. The St Kilda Exhibition…

Coral Beaches

From the end of the minor road beyond Dunvegan Castle entrance, an easy 1-mile walk leads to the Coral Beaches – a pair of blindingly white beaches…

Staffin Dinosaur Museum

In an old stone barn by the roadside, this museum houses an interesting collection of dinosaur footprints, ammonites and other fossils discovered in the…

Just south of Uig, a minor road (signposted ‘Sheader and Balnaknock’) leads a mile or so to the Fairy Glen, a strange and enchanting natural landscape of…

Raasay Distillery

Raasay's first ever (legal!) distillery opened in 2017, and comes with a twist – you can stay the night here, in one of the six designer bedrooms in the…

Torabhaig Distillery

A converted farm steading overlooking the sea houses Skye's second distillery, opened in 2017. There's a visitor centre and cafe; tours are best booked in…

Talisker Distillery

Skye's oldest distillery (established 1830) produces smooth, sweet and smoky Talisker single malt whisky. The guided tour includes a free dram.

Gallery An Talla Dearg

This gallery exhibits the works of artists who have been inspired by Scottish landscapes, wildlife and culture.

Duntulm Castle

Near the tip of the Trotternish Peninsula is the ruined MacDonald fortress of Duntulm Castle, which was abandoned in 1739, reputedly because it was…

More destinations you need to see

Overview of North West Highlands Geopark.

25 Top Things to Do on the Isle of Skye, Scotland: Detailed Guide + Map

Portree colourful harbour houses

The Isle of Skye is one of the must visit places in  Scotland , attracting millions of visitors every year from all around the World. Located in Northern Scotland, the Isle of Skye is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, majestic rugged mountains, dramatic cliffs, medieval  castles  and colourful fishing  villages . 

The word, ‘Skye’ originated from the Norse, meaning the island of clouds. In Gaelic, the name for the island is ‘Eilean a Cheo’ –  ‘Misty Isle’ . Also, the Isle of Skye is the land of fairies, kelpies and brownies  – all mythological creatures in Scottish folklore. They go really well with the magical and mystic landscape here.

Visiting this island should come at the top of your Scotland travel bucket list. There are plenty of things to do and explore here. Every inch of this island is beautiful – it’s quite daunting to narrow down to a few places. 

In this detailed travel guide, we will cover all the best things to do in the Isle of Skye – including popular hikes, stunning viewpoints, where to shop and eat, and where to stay and how to get around – pretty much everything you will need to know to plan your trip to the Isle of Skye.

Yay! Let’s begin the adventure together.

📍 Where is the Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is the most northerly and largest Island of the Inner Hebrides Islands. Situated on the west coast of Scotland , it belongs to the Highland Council area and is part of Inverness-shire county.

The capital of the Isle of Skye is Portree – the largest town and a busy tourist hub, famous for the pastel-coloured houses. After Portree, Broadford is the second-largest settlement on the Island.

🌦️Weather on the Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye has a mild Oceanic climate due to the impact of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream. It feels cold for most of the year. Generally, July is the warmest month , with an average temperature of 17°C. The temperature rarely drops below 8°C. The coldest month is February , with an average maximum temperature of 6°C.   May is the driest month , with around 13 rainy days. The windiest month is January , followed by December, and then November. The wettest month is October .

Leaving behind all statistics and data, the weather here is very unpredictable . So, come prepared. The first time we visited the Isle of Skye was at the peak of summer, and it was pouring for most of our stay. You can’t predict Scottish weather, can you? You would need a bit of luck to get on with the weather.

fairy pools

🗓️ Best Time to Visit the Isle of Skye

Chances are you have already heard about how notorious Scottish weather could be. As the saying goes, “ If you don’t like Scottish weather, wait thirty minutes, and it is likely to change ”. Therefore it’s a bit difficult to point out the exact best time to visit the Isle of Skye. Every weather is beautiful here in its way, making it an all-year-round destination.

🌞 Peak Season : The Summer months, May – July are the peak tourist season on the Isle of Skye. The weather stays relatively dry and warm this time of year and is great for all kinds of outdoor activities. Keep in mind though Midges ( the tiny monstrous insects, found in Scottish highlands) usually emerge around this time – from late May to September.  

🍂 Shoulder Season : Our pick would be Autumn and Late Spring when the landscape gets more photogenic, midges are away and the hotels are less expensive. Also, it gets much less crowded than in summer. Weather is very unpredictable this time of year on the Isle of Skye. You might get to experience four seasons in a single day.

🏔️ Low Season : From November to March, the weather stays above the freezing temperature. Snow might linger in the higher mountains. Therefore not the best time for outdoor activities. It gets very gloomy and windy around this time. But Midges are gone for good, as they can’t survive the frost and cold.

⏱️ How Many Days to Spend on the Isle of Skye

Plan at least 3 days to explore the Isle of Skye . It may look like a small island on maps. But in reality, the island is quite huge. You can easily spend 1-2 weeks exploring different corners of this magical island.  

If you have only 1 or 2 days, we would recommend going on an organised tour. That way, you can visit all the famous places on the Isle of Skye in a limited time.  

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 25 Best Things to Do on the Isle of Skye

1. discover the magical fairy pool.

Fairy Pool is hands down our favourite place and one of the main attractions on the Isle of Skye. Located in Glenbrittle, this magical place has an impressive web of small waterfalls with turquoise crystal clear water.

The setting against the backdrop of the imposing Black Cuillin mountains is simply out of the world. We were totally amazed the moment we set foot, despite seeing plenty of pictures on social media before.

fairy pool in Skye

In theory, it takes around 40 minutes to walk from the car park to the fairy pools. But we would recommend spending at least a couple of hours here to fully appreciate the natural beauty of this place. On a sunny warm day, it’s very tempting to take a dip under the waterfalls and have a picnic; Sounds “fairy” eh?

  • Starting point : Fairy pool car park
  • Distance : 2.4 km
  • Time : 40 min – 1 hour  

🔥Pro Tips : Fairy Pool is an excellent spot for wild swimming in Scotland. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit or a wetsuit with you. The water here is pretty chilly all year round.

Thanks to Instagram, fairy pool has gotten insanely popular nowadays. As a result, this can get overcrowded sometimes, especially during the summer months. We would recommend getting here early in the morning or before the sunset to avoid the crowd. And you might have the whole place to yourself.

🚗 How to reach by c ar – It’s pretty straightforward to get here by car. Head straight to Glen Brittle, where you’ll find a parking lot. And a well-built path leading directly to the Fairy Pools.  

🚌 How to reach by b us – Fairy Pools are not easily reachable by public transport. Citylink bus from Glasgow stops near Sligachan hotel, which is the nearest bus stop. From there you have to walk nearly 5 miles to reach the fairy pool car park.  

You can also hire a taxi to pick you up from Sligachan. Other than the main town of Portree, the taxi service here is very limited on the Isle of Skye. So, pre-book your taxi if needed.

2. Hike Quiraing – Table, Needle and the Prison

A must-visit place on the Isle of Skye, Quiraing is famous for its dramatic landscape and rugged charm . The word ‘Quiraing’ has its origin in the Norse word, Kvi Rand, which means – ‘Round Fold’. Located on the Trotternish peninsula in the northern part of the Isle of Skye, Quiraing has some unique landforms:

  • The Table – a flat grassy landscape
  • The Needle – a pointy 37m pinnacle
  • The Prison – a unique rock formation having a resemblance to a medieval keep. 

Isle of Skye Quiraing Mountains

The  Quiraing circuit  from the car park would take about 3 – 4 hours to complete. You would get a stunning panoramic view of Staffin Bay and the motorway, which winds down with several twists and turns. Undoubtedly, that’s one of the most photogenic roads in Britain. You can hack this amazing view with just a short walk from the car park.

  • Starting point : car park at the summit
  • Distance : 6.5 km / 4 miles
  • Time : 3-4 hours

Skye Quiraing

🚗How to reach by car – The car park is at the highest point of a single track road. It’s about 5.5 miles from Uig and 2.5 miles from Staffin. From Portree, it’s 21 miles and will take about 30 minutes to drive.

The car park gets very busy in summer and fills up quite quickly. So, you might need to drive further along the road to find a spot.

🚌 How to reach by Public transport – The nearest bus stop is 3km away at Brogaig, Staffin. Catch Stagecoach bus service 57A from Portree town square to Brogaig.

3. Neist Point – A Must-see Attraction on the Isle of Skye

neist point lighthouse

Located in the most westerly part of the island, Nest Point is certainly one of the must-visit places on the Isle of Skye.  

This iconic landform is home to one of the most iconic lighthouses in Scotland . Moreover, It boasts of having some stunning cliffs and offers an unrivalled view across the North Atlantic Ocean.

Once there, take the concrete path to the left from the car park that descends down to the lighthouse. It gets a bit steep at places, but it’s worth the walk as you would be blessed with some gorgeous views. Plus, if you are lucky, you might be able to spot some minke whales and dolphins as well from the tip of the lighthouse. Allow around 45 minutes to 1 hour to walk down and come back.  

Finally, don’t miss the Lighthouse Viewpoint which is a short  walk to the right of the car park. As you walk along, the seductive stretch of the cliff would become more prominent with the lighthouse at the end. On a warm sunny day, it’s a great spot to enjoy a picnic with a view.

📸Photography Tip : If you are a keen photographer, Neist Point is one of the best sunrise and sunset points on the Isle of Skye. It’s a popular spot to watch the sun dip on the Atlantic. You can imagine how golden the lighthouse would like under the setting sun.

🚌How to reach by public transport : The nearest bus stop is 5 km away at Glendale, Duirinish peninsula. Catch Stagecoach bus service 56 to reach Glendale.

🚗How to reach by car- From Portree 1 hours 5 min / 30 miles.

4. Hike the Mighty Old Man of Storr

An iconic place on the Isle of Skye, Old Man of Storr is one of the most dramatic rock formations in the United Kingdom.  

There are many folklores behind these unique shaped rocky pinnacles. Some say it’s the fingers sticking out of a giant. Now, some believe it’s the work of the angry brownies of the Isle of Skye. Another story goes that the fairies tricked an old man and his wife into stones.

Anyway, choose whatever you would like to believe, the Old man of Storr is mind-blowingly impressive.

old man of storr skye

Hiking it is one of the best things to do on the Isle of Skye. The walk, from the Old Man of Storr car park to the pinnacles, is a popular hike, particularly in summer. From the car park, it would take about 45 minutes to reach the foot of the mighty pinnacles. It’s a  moderately easy walk  – so you can easily do this even if you are not a serious hiker. From the top, the view of the pinnacles is simply magical. You would also get a stunning view of Loch Leathan and the Sound of Raasay.

  • Starting point : Old man of Storr car park on the left side of the A855, 6.8miles from Portree.
  • Distance : 4.5km / 2.75 miles
  • Time : 1.5 – 2 hours
  • Elevation : 288m

old man of storr stacks

🔥Top tips : As the hike is extremely popular, we would recommend making an early start . You would be able to enjoy the place more to yourself. Plus, there would be great photo opportunities with lesser people.

One of the best viewpoints for photographing the Old Man of Storr is from the road near Loch Fada. On not so windy days, you get to see the reflection of Storr on the water.

🚗 How to reach by c ar: From Portree, around 14 minutes drive to the Storr car park.

🚌How to reach by public transport : Catch Stagecoach bus service 57A from Portree town square. It takes around 15 minutes to reach Old man of Storr car park.

Alternatively, you can get a taxi from Portree market square. One way taxi will cost you around £15.

5. Visit Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls Viewpoint

kilt rock skye

By the name of it, this  90-metre Basalt rock formation looks like a pleated kilt. If you are not familiar with the Kilt, it’s a short knee-length dress for men – sort of a national emblem of Scotland. The Kilt Rock is one of the famous things to see in Skye.

Not sure whether it’s just us, but we struggled to find the resemblance. Although, We were very amused with the Mealt Falls tumbling down the Kilt Rock to the sea – a treat to the eyes. There is a viewing platform to admire the spectacular beauty of the Isle of Skye. Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls is a popular photo spot, and it can be quite busy sometimes, particularly in summer.

🚗 How to reach by c ar: From Portree 30 minutes / 15.3 miles

🚌How to reach by public transport : Catch Stagecoach bus service 57A from Portree town square. It takes around 27 minutes to reach Kilt Rock.

6. Lose Yourself in the Fairy Glen

Located near the northern  village , Uig, Fairy Glen is a cluster of grassy, cone-shaped wee crumpled hills. Most of them are super easy to climb , and you would have a gorgeous view over to a small loch. Walking around the fairy glen is one of the best family-friendly things to do in Skye.

A bit of scrambling would be required to climb up Castle Ewen , a rocky tower among them. The panoramic view from there is simply breathtaking.

Fairy glen Uig

Though there is no folklore linking the fairies (or faeries – Scottish mythological creatures) to the Fairy Glen, some believe that they created this land and hide in the hills. So, best of luck with finding the fairies.

fairy glen reflection

🚌How to reach by public transport : Catch local Stagecoach bus service 57 or Citylink service 916 from Portree town Square to Uig Hotel. The bus takes around 26 minutes. From the Uig Hotel bus stop, it’s a one-mile walk to get to the Glen.

🚗 How to reach by c ar: From Portree 24 minutes / 15.7 miles.

Parking Space is very limited in Fairy Glen . If you are coming by car, would recommend leaving your car at Uig and walking down here. It would take nearly half an hour.

7. Portree – A Great Base to Explore Isle of Skye

Located on the east coast, Portree is the main settlement on the Isle of Skye. Portree itself is very picturesque. Look at the colourful houses at the harbour. Aren’t they cute? It’s a great base to stay and explore most of the attractions on the Isle of Skye.

📖 Read More: 20 of the Most Picturesque Villages to Visit in Scotland

portree houses

A popular viewpoint in Portree is the Lump which is just a five-minute walk from the town Centre. You can get a stunning view of the harbour and the bay from Apothecary’s Tower over there. On a clear sunny spell, mighty pinnacles of the Old Man of Storr will come into sight.

Portree has lots of hotels, B&B, restaurants, award-winning fish & chips shops (The Chippy), and pubs around the town centre. Seafood is highly recommended in local restaurants.

🚌How to reach by public transport : Being the major tourist hub on the Isle of Skye, Portree is easy to reach. Citylink buses and Local Stagecoach buses all go through Portree.

🚗 How to reach by c ar: From Glasgow 5 hours 10 min / 216 miles.

8. Be Captivated by Scenic Village Elgol

Tucked away on the southern coastline of the Isle of Skye, Elgol is a small Scottish village in the Strathaird peninsula offering one of the best views of the Cuillin ranges. This village on Loch Scavaig is about 14 miles away from Broadford, the second biggest settlement on the Isle of Skye after Portree.

📖 Read More: 20 of the Best Villages to Visit in Scotland

Elgol house skye

Elgol has some great walking opportunities including the coastal walk to Loch Coruisk. Also, you can explore Bonnie Prince Charlie’s cave where he hid after the defeat of the Jacobites in the mid-18 th century. The boat services to Loch Coruisk and the wildlife trips are sailed from the village harbour.

📖 Read More: How to Spend a Day in Elgol and Loch Coruisk, Isle of Skye

🚌How to reach by public transport : Stagecoach runs bus service 55 from Broadford to Elgol a few times a day on weekdays and Schooldays.

🚗 How to reach by c ar:  Takes 35 minutes to drive down from Broadford.

9. Loch Coruisk – Birthplace of ‘The Skye Boat Song’

Lying at the foot of the Black Cuillin,  Loch Coruisk is a breathtaking beautiful freshwater loch on the Isle of Skye. It’s easily accessible by boat from Elgol across another loch, Loch Scavaig. Taking this boat trip is one of the most fun things to do on the Isle of Skye.

There are a couple of companies that run boat services from there. We took the boat tour called Misty Isle Boat Trips. The closer we came to the imposing mountain ranges, the view got more mesmerising. It was an incredible experience. The loch is also accessible by a long and strenuous walk from Sligachan and Elgol. 

Loch Coruisk Isle of Skye

Legend has it, that this loch was once the home to the Kelpies – mythical water horses in Scottish folklore. Allegedly, they can transform themselves into human shapes. So, you never know whether you might meet a Kelpie.

It’s also believed that the famous Scottish folk song ‘The Skye Boat Song’ originated in Loch Coruisk, getting inspired by a Gaelic version sung by the local rowers.

⛵How to reach : Catch Stagecoach bus 55 from Broadford to Elgol.  Then, board a ferry from Elgol pier.

10. Uncover the History and Heritage of Dunvegan Castle

📖 Read More: 25 Most Beautiful Castles in Scotland You Must Visit

Dunvegan Castle, Isle of Skye Scotland

🚌How to reach by public transport : Limited stagecoach bus service 56 from Portree.

🚗 How to reach by c ar:  35 minutes drive on A850 from Portree.

⏰Opening hours : Seasonal Opening, 14 May – 15 October, daily 10 am – 5.30 pm.

💰Entrance fees : Castle and Gardens- Adult £14.00, Child (5-15yrs) £9.00. Gardens only- Adult £12.00, Child £7.00

11. Visit Sligachan Old Bridge for an Epic View of the Cuillins

Sligachan is situated about 10 miles south of Portree on the Isle of Skye. This small settlement offers a classic view of the majestic Red and Black Cuillin mountains.  

There are 11 Munros (Scottish terms for mountains over 3000 ft) and over 30 summits on the ridge of the Cuillin mountains. Also, the famous ridge of the Black Cuillin is UK’s most challenging mountain range.

old sligachan bridge skye

Besides, the picturesque stone bridge and the Sligachan River add some extra dimension. You would see them appear on many postcards of the Isle of Skye. Honestly, the wet weather in Skye perhaps makes this rugged place more atmospheric, at least to us.

Near the Sligachan Car park, you can spot the statues of Prof. Norman Collie and John Mackenzie – two pioneering mountaineers and friends. They established the hiking routes for climbing the Cullinan mountains in the early 20th century.

🚌How to reach by public transport : Catch Stagecoach bus service 52 or Citylink service 915, 916, 917 from Portree or Kyle of Lochalsh to Sligachan Hotel.

🚗 How to reach by c ar: From Portree 13 minutes / 9.4 miles.

12. Go on a Wildlife Boat Tour on the Isle of Skye

skye wildlife

The Isle of Skye has an abundance of wildlife, especially the  minke whales, dolphins, seals, otters, white eagles, golden eagles  and many more. Several wildlife boat trips operate from various places on the Isle of Skye, mainly Portree, Elgol, Dunvegan and Uig. Some boat trips run year-round, while others are seasonal.

One of Scotland’s best wildlife locations, the Isle of Skye is a birdwatcher’s and wildlife enthusiasts’ paradise.  On our boat trip to Loch Coruisk from  Elgol,  we spotted a few minke whales jumping playfully above the water. It’s a shame they completely eluded our camera.

We managed to get pictures of some seals and red deer though on the shore of Loch Coruisk. So, keep your eyes peeled and get your cameras ready.

13. Discover Dinosaurs Footprints at Staffin Bay

staffin bay dinosaurs

Million years ago, Dinosaurs once roamed around this breathtaking land. In recent years the Isle of Skye has become a well known  geological heritage site . Nearly 15% of all mid-Jurassic discoveries worldwide were made here. Not only that, but you would also get a gorgeous view of the Quiraing, which lies not too far from here. So, a perfect place to paddle along the sandy beach savouring the view.

🚌How to reach by public transport : Catch local Stagecoach bus service 57A from Portree town Square to Staffin village. The bus takes around 31 minutes to reach. The beach is a short walk from the bus stop.

🚗 How to reach by c ar: From Portree around 35 min / 19 miles.

14. Rainy Day Activities: Try a Dram at Talisker Distillery

Talisker Distillery is the  oldest working, single malt Scotch whisky distillery  on the Isle of Skye. It’s located in the beautiful  Scottish village  of Carbost, on the shores of Loch Harport. Established in 1830, Talisker is a must-visit attraction for all whisky lovers visiting the Isle of Skye. They run distillery tours every day and you would get to taste a few drams. Plus, you can grab a gift or souvenir from their gift shop.

Talisker distillery

Talisker offers two different distillery tours – The Talisker Cask Tasting tour and the Flavours of Talisker tour. Both the tours last for around 45 minutes. 

Talisker Cask Tasting  tour offers a tasting experience of 4 unique drams, 3 of which are hand-drawn from casks taken from the warehouse. Due to the rare and exclusive whiskies included in this experience, it is only available  once every day , at 1:30 pm and costs  £25 per person .

Flavours of Talisker  tour is a tutored tasting of 3 expressions of Talisker whiskies by an experienced guide in their visitor centre. This tour runs  daily , every hour, 10 am – 4 pm and costs  £15 per person .

⏰Opening hours : March- October 10:00 am – 17:00 pm / November – February 10:00 am – 16:30 pm

🚗 How to reach by c ar: From Portree around 26 min / 17.2 miles.

🚌How to reach by public transport : Catch A MacDonald bus service 608 from Portree. Takes nearly 40 minutes to reach Talisker.

15. Enjoy Fresh Seafood on the Isle of Skye

Seafood in Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye has a brilliant seafood scene. You can find restaurants serving delicious and fresh seafood all around the island – from chip shops to Michelin Star restaurants.  The Chippy  in Portree is one of the award-winning Fish and Chip shops in Scotland. Also, pop inside  The Oyster Shed  near the Talisker Distillery. It is a very popular seafood restaurant on the Isle of Skye. Taste their fresh crab, lobster, mussels and oysters.

If you would like to splurge,  Loch Bay Restaurant  near Dunvegan Castle (about 15 minutes drive) is a Michelin starred restaurant. They have an amazing seafood tasting menu. For more recommendations on restaurants, read out the ‘Where to eat’ section later in this travel guide.

16. Wee Photo Stop at Rigg Viewpoint

skye rigg viewpiont

Located at about 10 miles north of Portree on the east coast of Isle of Skye, Rigg Viewpoint is an excellent spot to pull over on A855. A wee stop along the road to soak up the stunning coastal view.

 You would get a spectacular panoramic view over mainland Scotland , the Isle of Raasay and Rona. You can also see Trotternish Ridge, Red and Black Cuillin Mountains, and the Old Man of Storr. If you are travelling around the Isle of Skye in a campervan, it’s a great place to spend the night.

🚗 How to reach by c ar: From Portree around 22 min / 10.2 miles.

17. Explore the Iron age ruins of Dun Beag Broch

skye Dun Beag Broch

Located on the west coast of the Isle of Skye,  Dun Beag is an iron-age broch  – historic stone houses found in the north and west parts of Scotland. On your way to Dunvegan Castle, don’t forget to make a stop at this Hebridean stone tower.

Located over a small hill, Dun Beag Broch is free to explore. From the car park, it’s quite easy to climb but keep in mind there is no proper waymarked path. You would get an astounding view over to Loch Bracadale and the Cuillin Mountains. It is a very nice wee spot on the Isle of Skye to ponder over history and enjoy the view.

⏰Opening hours : Open year round.

🚗 How to reach by c ar: From Portree around 25 min / 11.2 miles.

18. Stargazing on the Isle of Skye

Milky way in Skye

Free from light pollution, the Isle of Skye is one the best places in the UK for keen stargazers. There are about nine Dark Sky Discovery sites located throughout this Island. Three of those are around Waternish, one in Broadford, two at Kylerhea and Kinloch Forest, and three around Armadale. The best time to gaze upon the celestial wonders is between September and April . On clear nights, you can see the Milky Way, stars, distant planets and meteors. In Winter, you can witness the Northern lights dancing over the Island.

During our stay on the Isle of Skye, we got clear nights most of the time and were able to see the spectacular starry skies and Milky Way. We were coming from Kyle by bus, and we got off at a stop near Broadford, where we booked our hotel for the first couple of days. It was pitch dark, and we couldn’t see a thing apart from the sky crammed full of stars and galaxies. It was a magical experience.

19. Lealt Falls – A Lovely Waterfall on the Isle of Skye

Lealt Falls

One of the most picturesque waterfalls on the Isle of Skye, Lealt Falls is located about 12 miles north of Portree. In fact, it’s quite close to Kilt Rock. This spectacular waterfall lies inside a 90 meter deep gorge on the Lealt River in the Isle of Skye.

There are a couple of viewing platforms to enjoy a superb view of this waterfall and the surroundings. There are some picnic benches as well if you fancy a bite admiring the view.

🚌How to reach by public transport : Catch local Stagecoach bus service 57A from Portree town Square to ‘Lealt Fall Road End’ bus stop. The bus takes around 22 minutes to reach.

🚗 How to reach by c ar: From Portree around 20 min / 12 miles.

20. Skye Bridge – Bridge Connecting with the Mainland

Skye Bridge connects the Isle of Skye with the mainland of Scotland – linking the village of Kyleakin on Skye to Kyle of Lochalsh on the Scottish mainland. Opened in 1995, this road bridge is 500 metres long over Loch Alsh and is one of the busiest road bridges in the UK.

Lochalsh Scotland

📸Best Viewpoints : There are two nice viewpoints from where you can admire the view of this beautiful bridge:

Kyle of Lochalsh Viewpoint – From Kyle of Lochalsh Rail Station, walk 18 minutes to reach this viewpoint. The stunning view over the Skye Bridge and Loch Alsh is worth the walk. A great sunset photo spot.

Loch Alsh Viewpoint – Walk 12 minutes from Kyle of Lochalsh train station to reach this viewpoint. A great place to stop along the A87 and take photos. The view of Skye bridge and Kyleakin village is gorgeous.

🚌How to reach by public transport : Catch a Citylink or local Stagecoach bus from Portree or Broadford.

🚗 How to reach by c ar: From Portree around 46 min / 33 miles.

21. Eilean Donan Castle – One of the Most Visited Castles in Scotland

One of the  most photographed  and  best castles in  Scotland  near the gateway of the Isle of Skye, Eilean Donan Castle is a jewel on the Northwest coast of Scotland.

Perched on a small islet, where three sea lochs meet, this castle is connected to the mainland by an arched stone bridge. Surrounded by gorgeous mountain ranges, no wonder why  Eilean Donan Castle  is a popular spot among visitors and wedding photo shooters. 

Eilean Donan - One of the Prettiest Castles in Scotland

Take a tour of the castle to discover its fascinating and riveting history. Throughout the centuries, it has seen many battles and destruction. It got completely destroyed during the Jacobite Uprising. Reconstruction began in the 20th-century.

This castle was featured in many movies, tv shows and documentaries. It appeared as the MI6 headquarter in the 1999 Bond film – The World is Not Enough.

This iconic castle is technically not on the Isle of Skye. But due to its proximity, this castle is a must-see attraction on your trip to the Isle of Skye. After exploring the Eilean Donan Castle, stroll around the neighbouring fishing village   Dornie . The colourful houses there are very picturesque.

⏰Opening hours : Varies depending on the season. Generally, 10 am – 6 pm during summer months.

💰Entrance fees : Adult £10, Child £6 and Family £29.

🚌How to reach by public transport : Catch Citylink bus services 915, 916 and 917 from  Glasgow,  Inverness or Portree on the Isle of Skye. The bus stop is called Bridge Road end. It takes 38 minutes from Broadford and 1 hour 18 minutes from Portree.

🚗 How to reach by c ar: From Portree, it’s around 1 hour / 43 miles.

22. Befriend a Highland Cow

If you are not familiar with Highland Cow (or Heilan Coo in Scottish), it’s time to see some photos of them before your trip to Scotland. Highland Cow is one of the icons of Scotland. You would find them appear on many postcards of  Scotland .

Highland cow

These cute animals have quite unique curvy horns and long woolly coats. Originated in the Highlands and the Outer Hebrides, they are the oldest registered breed of cattle in the world. They come in many shades of colours like brindle, red, white, and black. They are usually very friendly, and you can easily take a selfie with them.

On the Isle of Skye, you can find them near a village called Sconser – located on the way from Broadford to Portree. We have marked the location on google maps later in this article.

23. Uig - A Port Village in the Isle of Skye

Uig is one of the three main settlements on the Isle of Skye. It’s a great base to explore and walk the Trotternish peninsula, which has two of the main attractions of the Isle of Skye – The Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing.

Having a horseshoe-shaped bay, Uig offers some great views. Plus, Fairy Glen is just half an hour’s walk from here. You can explore the  Skye Museum of Island life  and  Caisteal Uisdean  – a 17th century ruined  castle .

uig

Having a horseshoe-shaped bay, Uig offers some great views. Plus, Fairy Glen is just half an hour’s walk from here. You can also explore the Skye Museum of Island life and Caisteal Uisdean – a 17th century ruined castle .

If you would like to extend your trip to the Western Isles in the Outer Hebrides, take the ferries from here operated by Caledonian MacBrayne to Tarbert (Isle of Harris) and Lochmaddy (North Uist).

🚌How to reach by public transport : Catch Stagecoach bus service 57C or Citylink service 915, 916  from Portree to Uig.

🚗 How to reach by c ar: From Portree around 20 min / 14.5 miles.

24. Plockton – the Jewel of the Highlands in Scotland

Plockton  is an incredibly picturesque  village , about 8 miles east of the Isle of Skye. Nestled on the shore of Loch Carron, Plockton offers some stunning views over to the Applecross Mountains. 

Mild weather, palm trees, coral beach, seal watching, hiking – you would have plenty of amazing things to do in Plockton. This former fishing village in North West  Scotland  is a perfect spot to relax and soak in the stunning scenery. 

Taking a short trip to the peaceful Plockton is of the best things to do on the Isle of Skye if you want to avoid the crowd.

📖 Read More: Our Complete Travel Guide about Top Things to do in Plockton, Scotland

🚗 How to reach by c ar: Plockton is about 15 minutes drive from Kyle of Lochalsh, the gateway to the Isle of Skye. So, this village is a perfect detour when you are getting in or out of Skye. If you are on the NC 500 road trip, take a slight detour from Strathcarron via A890. There is a car park at Harbour Street near the Visitor Centre.

🚂How to reach by train : Plockton is just about 10 minutes train ride from Kyle of Lochalsh. From Inverness, there are regular  ScotRail  services to Plockton as well.

25. Visit Outer Hebrides – Extended trip from the Isle of Skye

In case you haven’t heard of the Outer Hebrides before, it’s a  group of stunningly spectacular islands  off the west coast of mainland Scotland. Isle of Lewis and Harris, North and South Uist, Barra and Benbecula are the main islands in the Outer Hebrides. They have some of the award-winning  best sprawling beaches  in Europe, and because of its remote location, it’s free of the crowd. Sounds tempting?

Harris and Lewis

Exploring the Outer Hebrides would be a lifetime experience. If you have time to extend your Isle of Skye trip by a few days (at least 3 – 4 days), one of the Islands in the Outer Hebrides would be a great choice.

⛴️ How to Reach by public transport : Just Hop on the CalMac Ferry from Uig on the Isle of Skye. They run regular ferry services to Tarbert in the Isle of Harris and Lochmaddy in North Uist.

🗺️ Map of the Attractions on the Isle of Skye

Here is the Google Map of all the best things to do on the Isle of Skye. Outside the main towns, Portree and Broadford mobile network coverage might be poor sometimes . So, download the map and use it offline. We have marked all the attractions, viewpoints and restaurants on this map.

➡️ Click here to open it in Google maps .

Isle of Skye Map

📋 Some Practical Tips for your Isle of Skye Trip

Here are some practical tips and suggestions to help you plan your next trip to the Isle of Skye.

🤠  Bring your sense of adventure  –  Don’t let the bad weather ruin your holidays. The weather here is very dramatic, and even at the peak of summer, you might get some rain. Be flexible with your itinerary. It is better to plan indoor activities, like exploring castles and whisky tasting on rainy days. 

🥾  Bring Comfortable walking shoes  – Most of the attractions on the Isle of Skye are outdoors. So, you will need a pair of comfortable walking shoes, best if it’s waterproof. 

🦟  Bring Midge Repellent  – If you are visiting Skye in summer, stock up plenty of midge repellents before heading out. Currently, Smidge is a popular Midge repellent brand. Also, consider buying a midge net to cover your face and neck from these little monsters. If you want a midge-free holiday, visit the Isle of Skye in autumn, winter and early spring.

🌇  Get there early  – In recent times, Skye’s popularity has grown exponentially. As a result of over-tourism, famous sights like Fairy Pools and Old Man of Storr gets over-crowded and super busy during the day. So, visit these places early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds. 

🧥  Bring a waterproof jacket  – There are always good chances of rain – no matter when you visit. So, bring a lightweight, breathable, waterproof and windproof jacket with you.

🚢  Ditch the crowd and Visit Raasay – If the Isle of Skye is too crowded for you, visit the stunningly beautiful neighbouring Isle of Raasay. This island is just a 25-minute ferry ride from Sconser on the Isle of Skye, but it’s not that touristy. There are plenty of activities you can do here – hiking, kayaking and whisky tasting in Raasay Distillery.

🏡  Book Hotels & Restaurants in advance  – In summer, hotels and restaurants get filled up very quickly. So, to avoid disappointment, book your hotels and restaurants early, preferably at least a month before your trip. 

🗺️  Download the offline maps  – Outside the main towns and  villages,  mobile network coverage is not too great on the island. So, download the offline maps beforehand. You may need it to navigate.

📸  Bring your Camera  – Every corner of the Isle of Skye is so pretty. It is a photographer’s paradise. So, enjoy your stay on this magical island, and take beautiful memories back home.

Planning a Trip to Scotland?

For further reading on other SCOTLAND destinations :

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Cullen, Moray |  2 Days in Cullen, Moray Firth – 17 Things to Do

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Braemar | How to Spend 2 Days in Braemar – 15 Top Things to do

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Inveraray | 15 Most Awesome Things to do in Inveraray

🚗 How to Reach the Isle of Skye by Car

You can reach the Isle of Skye very easily by car from all the main cities or towns in Scotland. You have two choices here –  drive to Mallaig  and catch a ferry to Armadale, Skye or  drive to Kyle of Lochalsh  and cross via Skye Bridge. 

Let’s see the Skye bridge option first. It takes over 5 hours to drive from  Edinburgh  or  Glasgow  to reach Portree – the main town of the Isle of Skye. If you would like to take a detour via super scenic Glencoe, Loch Lomond and Fort William , it would take about 6 hours. 

We would recommend making a few stops or a few day trips along the way to break the long drive. This way you would get to see more of Scotland.  Visit Stirling, Cairngorms National Park, Loch Ness and Glenfinnan on your way to the Isle of Skye.

  • From Edinburgh to Portree : 5 hours 30 minutes / 235 miles
  • From Glasgow to Portree : 5 hours / 216 miles
  • From Inverness to Portree : 2 hours 30 minutes / 114 miles
  • From Fort William to Portree : 2 hours 20 minutes / 108 miles
  • From Aberdeen to Portree : 5 hours 20 minutes / 215 miles

You can also come to Isle of Skye by a Car ferry operated by  CalMac,  sailing from Mallaig – a port on the west coast of Scotland. A great option if you would like to combine the famous Jacobite Steam Train ride (also known as the Hogwarts Express) with your trip. The CalMac ferry takes approximately 45 minutes to reach Armadale in the Isle of Skye. You can buy ferry tickets from the CalMac website or the ticket office at the port.

Ferry Timetable : Runs every day. Time varies depending on the seasons. There are separate timetables for the winter and summer months.

Fares : Adult £3.10, Child £1.55, Car £10.30.

elgol isle of skye

🚃 How to Reach the Isle of Skye by Public Transport

Wondering how to visit the Isle of Skye without a car? We have been lucky to travel to this magical island twice over the years. Both times, we entirely relied on public transport to get us here.  

Getting to Skye is pretty straightforward and super easy. Buses and trains run timely and are very efficient. Also, we would recommend visiting a few other places in Scotland on your way to the Isle of Skye.

So, sit back and relax. Enjoy the incredible natural beauty Scotland has to offer.

🚂 Visit Isle of Skye by Train

There is no train station directly located on the Isle of Skye. You have to take a train to Kyle of Lochalsh , located on the mainland and also the nearest train station . Four trains are running daily from Inverness to Kyle. Make your way to Syke, after visiting the world-famous Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle.

From Kyle, you would get regular bus services to reach Portree ( Citylink bus 915, 916, 917) and Broadford ( Stagecoach Bus 55, Citylink Buses) on the Isle of Skye.  

  • From Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh : 2 hours 35 minutes
  • Train Fare : Adult £14.60 One Way

Alternatively, you can take a train from Fort William to Mallaig . Catch a CalMac ferry from Mallaig to Armadale in Skye. From Armadale take Stagecoach bus 52 to Broadford.  

Keep in mind that the bus is not very frequent. Will recommend going through the Skye Bridge route if you want more flexibility on public transport options.

  • From Fort William to Mallaig : 1 hour 22 minutes
  • Train Fare : Adult £7.50 One Way

🚌 Visit Isle of Skye by Bus

Citylink runs regular bus services a few times a day from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Uig on the Isle of Skye.  The bus stops at Broadford, Portree and Kyle of Lochalsh as well.  

In the summer months, tickets get sold out pretty fast, especially during the weekends. So, get your tickets way in advance to avoid disappointment.  

It’s a long scenic journey to reach the Isle of Skye. Bring a good book and some great music to accompany you.  

  • From Glasgow to Portree : 6 hours 20 minutes, Bus Fare: Adult £47.10
  • From Fort William to Portree : 3 hours 4 minutes, Bus Fare: Adult £34.30
  • From Inverness to Portree : 3 hours 14 minutes, Bus Fare: Adult £28.10

* Buying a 3-day or 5-day Citylink Explorer pass  for £49 or £74 will be a cost-effective option.

⛴️ Visit Isle of Skye by Ferry

Take the  CalMac  (Caledonian MacBrayne) ferry from Mallaig to Armadale on the Isle of Skye. That’s a good option if you would like to  combine the iconic Ben Nevis or Glenfinnan Viaduct  with your trip. We would suggest spending a few days exploring Fort William – the outdoor capital of the UK.

If you are coming from the Outer Hebrides, CalMac ferries run daily ferry services from Tarbert (Isle of Harris) and Lochmaddy (North Uist) to Uig. 

There is also a ferry crossing from Glenelg on the Scottish mainland to Kylerhea on the Isle of Skye. Board MV Glenachulish, the last manually operated turntable ferry in Scotland. 

Depending on the weather conditions, the  ferry  runs from Easter until October. Daily between 10 am to 6 pm.

🏃‍♂️How to Get Around Isle of Skye

The easiest and most convenient way to get around Skye is by car. Many of the roads here are single track. So, keep left, never cross right, and reverse back to the nearest passing place, if needed.

scenic roads in Isle of Skye

For public transport, Stagecoach runs the local bus services around the island . You can purchase tickets from Stagecoach apps or directly from the bus driver. A single ticket costs £3.90 per adult. If going to travel a lot by bus, we would suggest buying the ‘Skye DayRider’ – costs £7.30, valid at all times on all services within the Isle of Skye. Buses are comfortable and run timely.  

The other bus company that operates on the Isle of Skye is Citylink – these are long haul buses. You can book the tickets online in advance from their website or buy them from the bus driver. In summer, seats fill up very quickly. So, even for a short ride, we would recommend booking online early. Buy a 3-day Citylink Explorer pass for unlimited travel for any 3 days out of a consecutive 5 days on Scottish Citylink services within Scotland. It costs £49 per adult.

Portree is the main town on the Isle of Skye, and most of the buses leave from here. If you are using lots of bus services to get around, stay near Portree or Broadford. Keep in mind that most of the local Stagecoach buses don’t run on weekends. But, Citylink buses run every day, even on weekends.  

🛌 Where to Stay on the Isle of Skye

Portree, Broadford and Uig are three main settlements on the Isle of Skye.  Portree  has most of the hotels and B&Bs. It is a great base to explore this island. Also,  Uig  is a good choice. There are some excellent walking opportunities in the Trotternish peninsula.  Broadford  would be a good base for exploring Elgol and Loch Coruisk. Also, there are many hostels and campsites dotted on this island. 

Hotels in Skye

Skeabost House Hotel (*8.8)  –  This historical country-house hotel is surrounded by a river, gardens and a golf course. It is just an eleven-minute drive from Portree.

Hebridean Inn (*8.8)  –  Located in Broadford, on the Isle of Skye, this inn boasts spectacular views over the Broadford bay. Rooms at the Hebridean Inn are cosy and comfortable. The staffs are super friendly and helpful.  

Greshornish House Hotel  (*9.1) –  Located in remote Greshornish peninsula, a Lovely secluded location on the Isle of Skye, this hotel is about 17 miles from Portree.

Cuillin Hills Hotel  (*9.4) – This is a  luxury 4-star hotel near Portree – that boasts a wonderful view over Portree Bay.

The Portree Hotel  (*8.3) –  This hotel is located at a corner of Portree’s main street. The main bus stop and taxi ranks are very close to this accommodation.

Hostels in Skye

Portree Youth Hostel  –  Just minutes from Portree town square, this hostel offers both small private en-suite and shared accommodation. All the attractions in Portree are within walking distance. 

Portree Independent Hostel  –  Situated in the centre of Portree, this vibrant yellow coloured hostel comes with a spacious kitchen and dining room. It also offers a stunning view from Portree Bay to the Cuillins.

Broadford Youth Hostel  –  Located near Broadford Bay, this hostel offers small private and shared rooms. It’s within walking distance of supermarkets, cafes and bus stop. You can often see Otters and seals from the nearby pier.

Skye Backpackers  –  Located in the beautiful fishing village of Kyleakin, this cosy hostel offers all essential facilities. 

Glenbrittle Youth Hostel  –  This hostel is close to the magical Fairy Pools and the famous Talisker Distillery. A good base for hikers and climbers exploring this area on the Isle of Skye. Private rooms are available too.

Flora Macdonald Hostel  –  Located in the Sleat Peninsula on the Isle of Skye, this hostel offers stunning views over the Sound of Sleat to the mountains of Knoydart in mainland Scotland. A good choice for travellers using the Mallaig-Armadale ferry.

Camping on the Isle of Skye

Camping on the Isle of Skye is a great experience. Campsites are dotted all over the island.

Torvaig Caravan & Camp Site – 5-minute drive from Portree town centre, this campsite has 35 tent pitches and 40 hard standing pitches for Motorhomes, Caravans and Campervans. Also, the view of the Cuillins is stunning from here.

Kinloch Campsite – Set on the shore of Loch Dunvegan, this family-run campsite is five minutes walk from the shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants of the village.

Glenbrittle Campsite & Cafe – Situated near the Loch Brittle, this site has over 30 electric hook-up pitches for motorhomes and around 150 tent pitches. There is also a cafe serving a great selection of delicious bakery and pastries on the site.

Uig Bay Campsite – Uig pier is a few minutes walk from this campsite. Hard grassed and standing areas for tents and caravans are available.

Staffin Caravan & Camping Site – Located close to Staffin Bay and the iconic Kilt rock, this campsite offers a great camping experience in a stunning location. One adult with a tent costs £5.

Camping Skye – Situated on the west end of Broadford village, off the main road, this campsite is 5 minutes away from shops, pubs and bus stop. There are 26 tent pitches and 26 Motorhome and Caravan pitches at the site.

⛺ Glamping on the Isle of Skye

Want to have all the facilities of a traditional holiday whilst enjoying the adventure of camping? Then glamping is the answer for you. It’s a great way to experience nature without compromising comfort. Here are some of the great clamping options on the Isle of Skye.

Skye Eco Bells (*9.1) – A luxury super off-grid eco-glamping experience. Located near Dunvegan, on 2 acres of moorland and woodland gardens. Cabins here come with individual fire pits.

Tigh Beag na h’aibhne (*9.3) – Located in Broadford, Isle of Skye Tigh Beag na h’aibhne offers a garden, barbecue facilities and a terrace. There is a small kitchenette area and a wet room on the property and a wee hot tub.

Skeabost View Pods Skye (*9.7) – Located in the quiet countryside with beautiful views, Skeabost View Pods is only 5 miles from Portree. Comes with all essential amenities for a comfortable and peaceful stay in nature.

Dunvegan Camping Pods (*8.9) –  Situated in Dunvegan, about 22 miles from Portree, Dunvegan Camping Pods offer a number of modern amenities, like microwave, fridge, stovetop etc.  

Shulista Croft Wigwams – Luxury glamping Wigwams, on a working croft on the Isle of Skye, boasting a great view towards the sea and the Trotternish Ridge.

🌳 Wild Camping on the Isle of Skye

If you are one of the brave, adventurous souls, wild camping is a great way to enjoy the unspoilt rugged landscape of the Isle of Skye. There are so many stunning spots for wild camping here – the mighty Quiraing, secluded Coral Beach and remote Camasunary beach – are some of the few. Please remember that the Isle of Skye has a very fragile and delicate ecosystem. So, take care of the environment and leave no trace on the landscape. Read Scotland’s outdoor access code before venturing out.

🍽️ Where to Eat and Drink on the Isle of Skye

There are plenty of good restaurants, cafes, chippies and pubs in Portree, Broadford and Uig. If you would like to splurge, Isle of Skye has a few luxurious award-winning restaurants and one Michelin starred restaurant. A few of our recommendations are:  

🦐 The Oyster Shed – Fresh delicious seafood takeaway shop, near Talisker Distillery.

🦞 Loch Bay Restaurant – Serves great seafood. Scottish Restaurant, with a French twist. Michelin starred.

🍲 The Three Chimneys – Famous, Award-winning luxury dining experience in Colbost, Dunvegan.

🐚 Scorrybreac Restaurant – Experience Scottish Fine Dining. Located in Portree harbour.

🦑 The Lower Deck Seafood Restaurant – Serves homemade seafood meals in Portree.

🍛 The Old School Restaurant – Located in Dunvegan, this restaurant offers great food and drink, using local produce.

🍜 Coruisk House – Serves the freshest local Scottish food in Elgol .

🐟 The Chippy –   Great Fish and chips takeaway in Portree. Eat by the harbour.

🥣 Claymore Restaurant – Set in Broadford this restaurant serves fresh & locally sourced seafood.

🦀 Sea Breezes – A local seafood joint by the Portree harbour.

🥯 Cafe Arriba – Funky, colourful cafe with great views over Portree Bay.

☕ Granary Restaurant and Coffeeshop – Small cafe offering a great range of breakfast & lunch in Portree.

🍞 Deli Gasta – Serves Coffee, Sandwiches and Seafood at Broadford. Pop in for breakfast or lunch.

🍺 For a Drink

🍻 The Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse – A free house pub stunningly located in Carbost on the Isle of Skye. Great food and drink options. Live music throughout the year.

🥂 The Portree Hotel – A great place in Portree town square. Live music every weekend in the winter months and every night during the Summer months.

🥃 Seumas’ Bar – Located in Sligachan, this pub has an impressive collection of over 400 malts from all around Scotland .

Tired of eating out and looking for a packed lunch or picnic? There are several general stores and supermarkets located on the Isle of Skye. You will find Co-op supermarkets in Portree and Broadford . Other than that, there are local independent stores in Uig, Dunvegan and Kyleakin. Often you will find small shops inside village halls and post offices. Keep in mind though these small stores get closed very early.

Hope you have enjoyed reading our travel guide to the 25 most awesome things to do on the Isle of Skye, Scotland.

Love, Sankha and Moumita.

10 thoughts on “25 Top Things to Do on the Isle of Skye, Scotland: Detailed Guide + Map”

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Very informative.

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Thanks Sanjib for reading our article. really glad you liked it! Cheers.

' data-src=

Beautiful pictures.. Your blog is itself a tour to Isle of sky..very good 👍👍

' data-src=

Very detailed

Thanks Andrew…really glad to hear you liked our article. Cheers, Sankha.

' data-src=

Great introduction to places to see in Skye and looking forward to visiting and taking lots of pictures.

' data-src=

cant wait to get there later in the year. very helpful blog

' data-src=

Thank you! This is comprehensive, insightful and incredibly helpful. I can’t wait to read your other posts.

' data-src=

A fabulous blog – travel guide actually – with stunning photos and helpful information. I’ve been to Skye several times and have still not seen it all – and your blog has given me more ideas of places to explore, thank you. Will be back next month visiting relatives and staying at Brescalan Cottage which my great-grandfather built.

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ULTIMATE Guide to Isle of Skye, Scotland: 29 Things to do + Essential Tips

Home » Blog » Europe » United Kingdom » ULTIMATE Guide to Isle of Skye, Scotland: 29 Things to do + Essential Tips

The Isle of Skye is one of many crown jewels nestled in the Scottish Highlands. We put together this ultimate guide with everything you’ll need to know when planning a visit: when to go, where to stay, things to do, and essential tips.

Fairy Glen Isle of Skye Scotland

When planning our Scotland road trip , I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of amazing places. The more I researched, the longer my list grew. It was truly difficult to narrow it down. Because you can’t see it all in one trip, after all!

But one place that I knew for sure, 100%, without a doubt, would make it onto our Scotland itinerary was the Isle of Skye.

Known for jaw-dropping rugged landscapes, epic bucket list hikes, and colorful villages (like the postcard perfect Portree!), the Isle of Skye is arguably one of the most beautiful places in Scotland .

When I asked for advice from people who had spent a lot of time in Scotland, every single one of them said something along the lines of, “Whatever you do, you absolutely need to visit the Isle of Skye.”

And now that we’ve been there, I understand the hype.

In fact, if you’re planning your very own trip to Scotland, I would repeat the advice that I was given: 

You absolutely must visit the Isle of Skye!

I will be the first to tell you that planning your time in the Isle of Skye can be a little daunting. While it’s not a huge area overall, it is absolutely jam-packed with attractions.

Instead of sitting behind a screen, researching until your eyes go blurry (like I did!), we’ve created a one-stop-spot for planning the perfect trip to the Isle of Skye.

In this article, you’ll find the very best things to do in the Isle of Skye. Plus, we’re sharing insider tips (so you don’t make the major mistake we made!), a packing list, where to eat, an Isle of Skye map, and so much more!

Article contents

What is the isle of skye known for.

  • Best time to visit
  • How to get there
  • Getting around
  • Things to do
  • Best hikes on Skye
  • Itinerary + Map
  • Isle of Skye travel tips
  • Where to stay
  • Where to eat
  • What to pack

Want to save time and energy on planning?

We traveled in Scotland for about 2 weeks and were able to visit most of the highlights of the country, including most of the top places to visit.

We took our 2-week travels and created the perfect Scotland road trip itinerary.  We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  2-week Scotland road trip itinerary  today!

isle of skye scotland tourist attractions

The Isle of Skye is part of an archipelago known as the Inner Hebrides. Situated just off the western coast of mainland Scotland, the Isle of Skye is the largest of the Inner Hebrides, and is the most accessible. 

In fact, you can easily drive to the Isle of Skye via the Skye Bridge – the main portion of which is just under 0.4 miles (0.6km) long. Easy peasy.

Being that the Isle of Skye is so easy to get to, it is a popular destination for international tourists and local travelers alike. 

With hiking trails of all levels, world-class restaurants, charming hotels and well-equipped campgrounds, the Isle of Skye is beloved by all types of travelers. 

Isle of Skye top attractions

isle of skye scotland tourist attractions

There is so much more to Skye than this list, but these are the top attractions that make most visitors’ wish lists:

  • Fairy Pools : A relatively easy hike brings you to a series of small waterfalls and pools, with a mountain backdrop.
  • Portree : The colorful capital of the Isle of Skye, Portree is a beautiful seaside town, brimming with fine dining options and cozy guesthouses.
  • Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls : An iconic viewpoint featuring a sheer cliff over which a small waterfall tumbles into the ocean.
  • Old Man of Storr : This hike is moderate but well worth the effort as it brings you through an otherworldly landscape littered with moss-covered rock formations.
  • The Quiraing : This viewpoint and hiking trail rewards travelers with epic panoramic views.

Interesting comparison: If you’ve ever been to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Iceland , the Isle of Skye will feel eerily familiar. Wild beaches, rugged treeless landscapes, and seaside villages can be found in both places.  

Best time to visit Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Scotland

Exploring the Isle of Skye is best during times with favorable weather. While Scotland’s weather is ever-changing, you can count on spring and fall to be the most ideal times to visit.

Summers in Scotland are magnificent, but it’s the busiest time of year and filled with both tourists and midges (pesky mosquito-like bugs). If you’re doing a lot of hiking, this is a great time, but bring a bug net (you’ll thank us later!).

However, there are perks of visiting Skye in all seasons, and we cover them in-depth in our guide to the best time to visit Scotland !

Good to know: Some restaurants and cafes on the Isle of Skye are open seasonally. If you’re visiting during the winter months, you may find you have fewer dining options.

How to get to the Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Scotland

The Isle of Skye can only be accessed by car, bus, or guided tour. Most people fly into Glasgow or Edinburgh, the two closest cities, rent a car , then drive from there.

There are a variety of great stops between both cities and Skye, making for an epic Scotland road trip if you’re planning to self-drive. 

  • Self-drive: From Glasgow or Edinburgh, expect it to take 5 hours minimum to drive to the Isle of Skye. Consider stopping in Stirling, Cairngorms, Loch Lomond, Glencoe, and Fort William along the way.
  • Bus : The cheapest way to get to Skye is by public bus. You can take any of the multiple routes from either city to Portree. Once in Skye, there is limited public transport so this may not be the best option for continued exploration.
  • Guided tours : An ideal option for first-timers exploring the Isle of Skye without their own ride. We recommend this tour from Edinburgh . 
Will you be traveling from Edinburgh?  There are several options for transportation between the two cities, and we have a detailed guide on  how to travel from Edinburgh to Isle of Skye  which outlines all of your options.

Getting around the Isle of Skye

Campervan Hire Scotland Skye

Without a doubt, the best way to get around the Isle of Skye is self-driving. 

There are buses, but they aren’t very frequent, so we wouldn’t recommend relying on public transport. 

The only other ways to get around would be by hitchhiking (which we wouldn’t recommend unless you have unlimited time to wait around and a super adventurous spirit!), and by a guided tour of Skye .

So let’s assume that you’re going with the first option (smart choice, by the way!). 

One thing I want to point out is that driving on the Isle of Skye is a wee bit different than driving in mainland Scotland.

Whether you’re renting a car or hiring a campervan in Scotland , here are some tips specific to driving around Skye:

Isle of Skye driving tips

driving on Isle of Skye Scotland

1. Download Google Maps

You’ll be going in and out of cell service as you drive around the Isle of Skye, so it’s a good idea to download this section of Google Maps before your trip so that you can still have real-time access to your GPS location and the ability to get directions even when you have no cell signal.

  • Wondering how to download the offline version of Google Maps? We have instructions here . 

2. Watch out for sheep

That’s right – in some of the less-populated areas of Skye, sheep graze alongside the road, crossing as they like. Keep your eyes peeled and drive cautiously any time you see them.

3. Be prepared to give way to oncoming traffic

There are many narrow roads around Skye, and in some places, you’ll need to pull into small pull-outs known in Scotland as “passing places”.  Be patient and budget extra time when you’re driving on some of the smaller roads.

Renting a car in Scotland? We’ve got an entire guide to driving in Scotland and tips for choosing the best rental car for your needs.

Thinking about hiring a campervan or motorhome? Yaassss! This will be an adventure of a lifetime. We have everything you need to know about camping in Scotland as well as how to choose the best campervan for you .

Psst! We have an entire  guide to driving in Scotland  including where to find the best deals on rental cars and tips for safety. 

29 Fun things to do on the Isle of Skye

To say there are a lot of things to do on the Isle of Skye is almost an understatement.

This island, while relatively small, is absolutely packed with cool sights, bucket list hikes, and incredible food.

We’ve put together a list of the very best things to do in Skye to help you plan the perfect visit to Scotland’s most popular isle.

Psst! Before you start feeling overwhelmed by all the things to do in the Isle of Skye, jump down to our perfect Skye itinerary , where we’ve put together our suggestions for how to spend your time.

1. Take a selfie with highland cows

Highland Cows Isle of Skye Scotland

While the symbol of Scotland is a unicorn (yes, really!) highland cows are – dare I say – a more iconic Scottish animal. And one that you can actually see in real life. So there’s that.

While driving around the Isle of Skye, be sure to stop at this spot so you can walk to the cows and see them up close. 

2. Wander colorful Portree 

Portree Isle of Skye Scotland

Portree is undeniably beautiful. Wander the streets and be sure to snap some photos along the way, as this is one of the most picturesque towns in Scotland .

The colorful buildings set against a quaint harbor make for a postcard-worthy combination. 

Whether you’re a photographer or just want to capture moments from your Scotland trip, you’ll definitely want to snap a picture of this lovely seaside village.

The best view of Portree can be found at this spot . 

Psst! If you have time to discover more of the country, don’t miss these epic places to visit in Scotland .

3. Enjoy fresh seafood

seafood in Isle of Skye Scotland

The Isle of Skye is one of the best places to enjoy fresh seafood while in Scotland. 

Insider Tip: If you’re a scallop fanatic like me, be sure to order them while exploring Skye, as they are famous for hand-dived scallops.

There are an abundance of options around the island. Here are our top picks:

Oyster Shed: This popular seafood market and kitchen is open Monday – Saturday (11 am – 5 pm) year round. It makes a good lunchtime stop during your Isle of Skye road trip. Enjoy hand-shucked oysters, steamed mussels, fish stew, smoked salmon, langoustines, and seared scallops in a super casual setting (aka you’ll be eating your meal while standing beside a barrel). 

Loch Bay Restaurant: Run by a husband and wife team, this cozy restaurant is known for locally-sourced seafood, like hand-dived scallops, and a welcoming atmosphere. While it’s located a bit out of the way from the typical sights, this restaurant is a destination in itself.

The Galley Cafe: This casual cafe specializes in seafood dishes, making it the perfect lunch or dinner stop if you’re in the area. Hint: It’s near Fairy Glen and makes a perfect post-walk meal.

One of the many restaurants in Portree: You’ll have no trouble finding excellent seafood in Portree. Just be sure to make a reservation in advance, as the restaurants here do book up.

Here are our top picks for a nice seafood dinner in Portree:

  • Restaurant Rosedale
  • Scorrybreac Restaurant
  • Sea Breezes

4. Wander Fairy Glen at sunset

Fairy Glen Isle of Skye Scotland

This place was one of our favorite stops on the Isle of Skye. 

A flat and easy mile-long loop trail brings you past grassy knolls, conical hills, a tranquil bog, and rock formations where sheeps graze.

You’ll know when you reach the spot known as The Fairy Glen , as there are concentric circles made in the ground with stones. 

You’ll also see Castle Ewen – which is not a castle at all, but a rock formation that somewhat resembles a fortress-like structure.

The whole place has an ethereal, magical quality to it.

When we visited around sunset time, there were just a handful of other people, making our experience feel really special.

Be a responsible traveler: Don’t move the stones or walk in the circular area (even if you see other people doing so). This causes erosion and will mean this spot is not as beautiful for future visitors. 

How Fairy Glen got its name

Fairy Glen Isle of Skye Scotland 2

Throughout history, the Isle of Skye was thought to be a home for fairies, as they are said to live near water. That said, there are no known legends or folklore tied to this exact spot. It simply got its name from the otherworldly quality of the landscape. 

The rocks have been placed by visitors over recent years, and while it’s beautiful, it doesn’t have anything to do with folklore. Some tour guides are said to have created stories to make this place seem more magical, but the fact of the matter is that it’s simply a beautiful area to explore.

Sorry if that spoils the illusion!

Fairy Glen Hike

  • Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km)
  • Elevation gain: 135 feet (41 meters)
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Timing: Plan on 20-25 minutes for the walk itself, and more if you’d like to take photos and climb up to the viewpoint.
Insider Tip: The best view of the circles in the ground is from the cone-shaped hill opposite Castle Ewen. There is a path to the top, from which you can get a really nice view overlooking it all.

These trail notes will be helpful in planning your hike to Fairy Glen.

Good to know: After a rain, parts of the path can get muddy, so wear hiking boots.

5. Hike to the iconic Fairy Pools

Fairy Pools Skye

No trip to the Isle of Skye would be complete without hiking to the famed Fairy Pools.

While this is one of the most visited places in Skye, it is popular for a reason.

We’ve got a guide to hiking to the Fairy Pools so you know exactly what to expect.

Tip: If you want to avoid crowds, come early or stay for sunset. The middle of the day is the most crowded. But even at its busiest, you’ll be able to find spots along the path that you have all to yourself.

6. Get weak in the knees at Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls Isle of Skye Scotland

This is one of the most iconic views on the Isle of Skye, and for good reason. It’s not often that you can see a waterfall tumble over a sheer cliff into the ocean. 

It is quite the drop! (Just hang on tight to your phone or camera.)

This is a quick stop, as it’s just a short walk from the parking lot.

7. Cheers with a local brew

beer in Scotland

Pop into Isle of Skye Brewing Company for a local ale or their house-distilled gin – whatever floats your boat.

Sláinte! (That’s Gaelic for cheers!)

8. Explore Spar Cave

Spar Cave Isle of Skye (Mike Matthews)

This cave is one of the best kept secrets on the Isle of Skye. A short, half-mile trail takes you to a fairytale-like cavern made of dripping flowstone.

You’ll walk along freshwater pools surrounded by silver walls, feeling like you’ve discovered an entirely different world. 

It’s important for you to do a bit of additional planning in order to visit this cave safely. Once you enter the cave, it will be pitch black, so you’ll need a hefty light source with you to see anything.

Additionally, the cave only appears during low tide, so be sure to double-check the tide charts before you head out.

9. Get on the water in a kayak or SUP

SUP in front of Dunvegan Castle Isle of Skye Scotland

There are few better ways to soak up the serene and secluded nature of the Isle of Skye than a peaceful paddle in the isles coastlines.

Explore Highlands offers kayak and stand-up paddle board tours ranging from half-days to full day excursions in a variety of different spots around Skye.

Their friendly, local guides also cater to beginners, families, and avid recreationalists looking to explore the renowned scenery, landscapes and wildlife. 

No matter your experience level on the water, there is an adventure waiting for you to experience.

10. Make a quick stop at Fairy Bridge

Fairy Bridge Isle of Skye Scotland 2

There’s not much to see here, but this historic bridge does make for a nice photo op or a quiet spot for a picnic.

It has a single arch and dates back to the 19th century.

11. Hike the rugged coastline at Brother’s Point

Brother's Point Isle of Skye Scotland

  • Distance: 2 miles / 3.2 km
  • Elevation: 305 ft / 93 meters
  • Type of trail: Out-and-back
  • Difficulty Rating: Easy
  • View the trail notes

You’ll feel as though you’ve stumbled upon an undiscovered gem in the Isle of Skye as you walk past local sheep herds to this magnificent viewpoint.  

Listen to the waves crash on the shores below while you enjoy long distance views of Kilted Rock, Mealt Falls, and the lush green hills of the isle.

12. Walk out to the Neist Point Lighthouse

Neist Point Lighthouse Isle of Skye_STOCK-U

On the western shores of Skye is one of the most famous lighthouses in Scotland. It’s one of the best photography locations in the Isle of Skye, and makes for a pretty incredible sunset.

Neist Point’s orange and white details contrast beautifully to the backdrop of green and blue hues Scotland is so renowned for. 

Take the short and scenic walk all the way to the lighthouse, or enjoy views of the entire Neist Point peninsula from afar. 

13. Tour the Talisker Distillery

Talisker Distillery Isle of Skye Scotland

Join the passionate guides of the oldest working distillery in Skye as they take you on a journey through three single malt tastings. 

You’ll toast the only single malt whisky from the Isle of Skye gazing over dramatic views of the Cuillin Hills and Loch Harport. 

14. Tour the Dunvegan Castle (or see it from afar)

Dunvegan Castle Isle of Skye Scotland

Along the shores of Loch Dunvegan is one of the most spectacular Hebridean castles in the Scottish Highlands. 

This fortress was occupied by the same family for over 800 years and features architectural work across ten different building periods from the 1200s to the 1850s. 

You can experience all the intricate details from centuries of reign on a tour, or view the castle and the stunning surrounding scenery at this viewpoint , for free. 

15. Walk across the historic Sligachan Old Bridge

Sligachan Old Bridge Isle of Skye Scotland

The legends shared in the Isle of Skye help bring some of its locations to life, and the stories surrounding this bridge definitely attract a crowd.

The Sligachan Bridge was built in the early 1900s, over water that is believed to hold the key to eternal youth. However, in order to reap the benefits of these enchanting waters, you must hold your head under for at least 7 seconds.

Since you’re in the area, the Sligachan waterfalls are only a short walk up the road and worth peeping before heading back to the car.

16. Visit the Armadale Castle & Gardens

Armadale Castle Isle of Skye_STOCK-U 2

This castle along the Sound of Sleat was the last residence of the Macdonald Clan. The dreamlike gardens and former manor house are filled with romantic corners and interesting clan history.

History buffs will adore this stop since you can learn about so many of the main figureheads of Scottish history and folklore, as well as the history of the Highlands and Isles.

Relics, plaques, weapons, and documents share history from the 18th-century to the present day. 

17. Search for the honeycomb rocks at Elgol Beach

Elgol Beach Isle of Skye (Kenny Lam Visit Scotland)

Elgol, a tiny fishing village with a population of 150, has attracted photographers for years to see some of the most unobstructed views of the Black Cuillin Hills. 

The hills can be enjoyed anywhere in town, but they’re famously photographed with the honeycomb-shaped rocks on the shores of Elgol Beach. 

The intricately eroded rocks can be enjoyed year round, but they’re most beautiful when doused in the golden light of a winter sunset. 

18. Get off the beaten path at Loch Coruisk

Loch Coruisk Isle of Skye_STOCK-U

At the foot of the Black Cuillin Hills is a jaw-dropping inland loch that makes for an adventurous and fulfilling full day hike. Walk among the towering green hills of Skye and flowing streams to reach this well kept secret.

If a full day of sweating doesn’t suit your fancy, you can take a boat tour to Loch Coruisk . Boats leave from Elgol and give ample time on the shores of the lake to take in the views and spot wildlife.

While you’re here, keep an eye out for the legendary kelpie (shape-shifting water horse) that is said to call these waters home.

19. Walk in the white sands at Camusdarach Beach 

Camusdarach Beach Isle of Skye (Paul Tompkins Visit Scotland)

The silver, powdery sands of Camusdarach Beach will make you feel as though you’ve been teleported to a tropical oasis. 

Vibrant sands meeting crystal clear waters is the perfect combination for a relaxing afternoon or an ideal picnic spot. 

Or if you’re bold enough, bring your swimsuit and take a cold plunge into the chilly water!

While not technically on the Isle of Skye, Camusdarch Beach is worth a stop if you’re riding the ‘Harry Potter Train,’ taking the ferry from Mallaig to Skye, or driving up from Glasgow or Edinburgh since it’s nearby.

20. Visit the tip top of Skye at Rubha Hunish

Rubha Hunish Isle of Skye Scotland (Isle of Skye.com)

The tip top of the Trotternish Peninsula features views as far as Duntulm Castle and a bothy that was originally used by the coastguard for whale spotting. 

Rubha Hunish is also famous for being one of the best hikes on the whole isle for seabird and mammal spotting.

You’ll walk along steep cliff sides, royal blue waters, and arrive at panoramic views. If you want to take your visit to the next level, you can spend the night in the bothy on top of the cliff and witness a spectacular sunrise over the Isle of Skye. 

Tip: Scotland’s coastline is notoriously wet, so bring your waterproof boots!

21. Try to spot otters

Kylerhea Otter Hide Isle of Skye (Isle of Skye.com)

Otters, seals, whales, and other wildlife can all be spotted at the Kylerhea Otter Hide. 

The hide is a wooden building with full facilities and free binoculars to search for wildlife. Inside the hide has facts and more information about all the different animals you can spot. 

It’s easy to access along a flat wooded trail. Along the way to the viewing area, you can see native and non-native plant species as well as different signs to read about local wildlife.

22. Hunt for dinosaur footprints at Staffin Beach

This black sand beach surrounded by the rugged and moody outcropping of the Trotternish Peninsula reveals dinosaur footprints during low tide.

Staffin Beach, known locally as An Corran, was already a popular stop on the Isle of Skye since it’s so close to other popular stops like the Quirang, but it didn’t get the recognition it does now until 2001.

Over two decades ago, dog walkers and scientists discovered these 170 million year old footprints. As you walk, look for the tracks of the Stegosaurus, Megalosaurus, Cetiosaurus, Hadrosaurus, and Ceolophysis.

23. Pretend you’re in Outlander at the Duirinish Stone

Duirinish Stone Isle of Skye Scotland

This standing stone feels like a true hidden gem on the Isle of Skye. 

A short walk brings you to a hill that overlooks a small hamlet on the water below. The star of it all is of course the mysterious standing stone. 

We were the only ones here when we stopped, and it made a nice and short little detour on our Isle of Skye road trip.

Insider Tip: To get here, you’ll walk past the ruins of St. Mary’s church and cemetery to the left and follow the small path up the hill toward the stone (which you can see from below).

24. See the Church of Kilchrist ruins

Atop a small mound are parish church ruins surrounded by a centuries-old graveyard. 

This location of praise was believed to have been used for Christian worship dating back to the 7th century. Although you can no longer see the original medieval stone church, you can explore the ruins of the chapel that replaced it in the 16-century.

Not many venture out to see these ruins so you’ll likely have them all to yourself, except the occasional baaa-ing from local sheep.  

25. Visit the stunning Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan Castle Scotland

While this is not technically on the Isle of Skye, it is just a short 15-minute drive from the bridge, so it should definitely be a stop on the way to or from the island. 

Known as one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland , Eilean Donan is unique because it was built atop a rock just off the shore of a loch. This 13th century castle is accessible by a small bridge (if you pay the £10 entrance fee). 

Even if you don’t go inside, you can marvel at its beauty from shore, or you can drive to this viewpoint for the best view.  

26. Grab a coffee in a unique setting

The Isle of Skye has a handful of super unique places to get your caffeine fix that’ll put a regular old Starbucks to shame!

Sip a latte in the ruins of an old house

coffee Isle of Skye Scotland

Lean To Coffee , run by a husband and wife duo, is located right after you cross the bridge to Skye. Enjoy a latte and muffin in ruins of an old house that has been creatively converted into a seating area.

In addition to the usual coffee drinks and a small assortment of daily-baked pastries, there are some lighter fare, like granola bowls. This unique, seasonally-open coffee shop is the perfect welcome to Skye.

Step inside a real life fairytale oasis

While not on the Isle of Skye exactly, Manuela’s Wee Bakery is located just minutes from the stunning Eilean Donan Castle which should definitely be on your route either before or after Skye. 

This is unlike any coffee shop you’ve ever seen – with tiny fairytale inspired houses, and a pond in the center, magic is in the air. 

We found the coffee to be average, but the freshly baked goods are very tasty. In addition to pastries and coffee, this bakery does pizzas and has an onsite gin distillery, so no matter what time of day you visit, you’ll find something that strikes your fancy. 

Order your morning joe inside a yurt

YURTea & Coffee

Situated on one of Skye’s northwest peninsulas, YURTea & Coffee is just what it sounds like. A coffee shop inside a yurt! 

This seasonally-open spot is a unique place to jumpstart your day or get a pick-me-up. If you arrive early enough, you’ll have an assortment of baked goods to choose from. 

Sip your coffee in a cozy book-lined cafe

coffee Isle of Skye Scotland

Bogg Myrtle is a cozy cafe not far from the famed Fairy Pools that has solid coffee and a variety of cakes. This book-filled setting feels almost like a small library and begs you to pause and stay a while. 

They also have a small breakfast and lunch menu. We loved their tomato lentil soup so much I’ve tried to recreate it myself!

More coffee options on the Isle of Skye

While not quite as unique as the spots above, here are three more excellent coffee shop options.

  • The Coffee Bothy : Super cozy cafe near the entrance of Skye that serves homemade breakfast food and sandwiches as well as coffee drinks.
  • Caora Dhubh Coffee Company : Caora Dhubh, which translates to black sheep , is located on a western peninsula of Skye (near Talisker Distillery), and is known for brewing some of the finest coffee on the Isle of Skye.
  • Birch Cafe : If you’re looking for a pick-me-up in Portree, this is the best coffee shop around.

27. Spend a night glamping in Skye

Skeabost View Pods Isle of Skye

Get in touch with the rugged and remote nature of the Isle of Skye in your own private glamping cabin or pod. 

You can bring all the creature comforts of home to your glamping site to have the most elevated experience in Scotland’s expansive landscapes.

Spend the night along the Trotternish Loop in the Skye Fox Retreat Cabins or North Skye Pods , or get off the beaten bath just east of Portree in the renowned Skeabost View Pods .

Best hikes on the Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is a hiker’s paradise. 

From easy walking trails to long-distance routes, this island has options for everyone from novice to expert hikers. 

Below is a list of the top hikes in the Isle of Skye, and we’ve included the distance, elevation gain, difficulty level and highlights so you can choose the hikes best suited to your preferences.

Old Man of Storr

Old Man of Storr Hike Isle of Skye Scotland

  • Distance: 2.9 miles (4.7 km)
  • Elevation gain: 1,060 feet (323 m)
  • Type of trail: Loop
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • View trail notes
  • Highlights: Moss-covered rock formations scatter this otherworldly landscape
Psst! We have a guide to hiking the Old Man of Storr trail that tells you exactly what to expect and everything you need to prepare for this popular hike.

Lochan Coire Lagan

  • Distance: 5.4 miles (8.6 km)
  • Elevation: 1,899 ft (579 m)
  • Difficulty Rating: Challenging
  • Highlights: Cascading waterfalls dot this trail with scenic coastal views and lochs

Loch Coruisk

  • Distance: 13.8 miles (22.2 km)
  • Elevation: 2,752 ft (839 m)
  • Highlights: A deep fresh water loch with a vast marine life ecosystem.

Fairy Pools

Fairy Pools Skye

  • Distance: 2.3 miles (3.7 km)
  • Elevation: 508 ft (155 m)
  • Highlights: Waterfalls feed into a series of clear, cascading pools.
Psst! Check out our complete guide to the Skye Fairy Pools hike .

Sgurr na Stri

  • Distance: 14.5 miles (23.3 km)
  • Elevation: 2,709 ft (826 m)
  • Highlights: See Loch Coruisk surrounded by dramatic peaks, feeding into a turquoise bay.

Point of Sleat

  • Distance: 5.3 miles (8.5 km)
  • Elevation: 892 ft (272 m)
  • Difficulty Rating: Moderate
  • Highlights: Powdery white sand meets the Sleat of Sound’s turquoise waters.

The Quiraing

driving in Scotland

  • Distance: 3.9 miles (6.2 km)
  • Elevation: 1,286 ft (392 m)
  • Highlights: Step into a magical realm with vibrant, otherworldly landscapes.
Insider Tip: Want to extend your hike? This route brings hikers on a longer version of the loop. 

Neist Point Lighthouse 

  • Distance: 1.7 miles (2.7 km)
  • Elevation: 442 ft (135 m)
  • Highlights: Hike to a stark white lighthouse sitting on a picturesque point.

Perfect Isle of Skye Itinerary + Map

Isle of Skye Scotland

There are so many things to do around the Isle of Skye that it can be a little overwhelming trying to plan how to spend your time. 

Below is what we think is a perfect 3-day itinerary of the Isle of Skye. It includes some epic hikes, amazing food stops, and isn’t too rushed so you have time to really enjoy yourself.

Feel free to add or cut things and adjust based on how long you have.

  • Start your day with coffee and a pastry at Lean To Coffee or The Coffee Bothy
  • Make a quick stop to see Highland cows  
  • Wander around the Sligachan Old Bridge
  • Hike to the iconic Fairy Pools  
  • Lunch at Bogg Myrtle (soup & sandwiches) or The Oyster Shed (seafood)
  • Explore Portree & freshen up (be sure to see the viewpoint)
  • Enjoy a nice dinner in Portree (be sure to make a reservation)
  • Breakfast at your accommodation
  • See Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
  • Hike to Brother’s Point
  • Hunt for dinosaur footprints on the beach 
  • Hike the Quiraing
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch
  • If you are doing okay with time, hike to the bothy at Rubha Harnish
  • Wander The Fairy Glen at sunset
  • Enjoy dinner at The Galley Cafe
  • Make a quick stop at Bride’s Veil Falls and view from the pull out or make the short climb to the top of the falls.
  • Hike the Old Man of Storr
  • Make a quick stop at the Fairy Bridge and enjoy a picnic lunch
  • Detour for coffee in a yurt if you need a caffeine boost 
  • Walk to the mysterious Duirinish Stone
  • See Dunvegan Castle from a viewpoint or by exploring inside 
  • Hike to the Neist Point Lighthouse
  • Have dinner at the world-renowned The Three Chimneys restaurant (make a reservation)

Day 4 

  • Make your way across the Skye Bridge to leave the isle
  • Pop into Manuela’s Wee Bakery for coffee and pastries in a super unique setting
  • Stop at Eilean Donan Castle , either to explore inside or to enjoy the beauty from afar

Have more time? Use the list of things to do in the Isle of Skye (above) to help you fill in the rest of your time!

Where to stay on the Isle of Skye? Portree is pretty centrally located, so you could easily base yourself there and follow this itinerary. We did a similar route, and we stayed northwest of Portree at this campground . 

We have many more suggestions for where to stay on the Isle of Skye .

Isle of Skye Map

Isle of Skye Itinerary Map

The map above shows the highlights of the isle as outlined in our perfect itinerary. 

Isle of Skye FAQs

Isle of Skye Scotland

We’ve got answers to some of your most common questions about the Isle of Skye.

How big is the Isle of Skye?

The Isle of Skye is roughly 50 miles long (80 km). 

Fun Fact: The island’s coastline has many inlets, meaning that no place in Skye is further than 5 miles (8 km) from the ocean.

How long does it take to get around the Isle of Skye?

Isle of Skye Scotland

Technically, you could drive the main roads around the Isle of Skye in just shy of 5 hours. 

But hold up – that would be a terrible idea! 

It would be a shame to be in one of the most beautiful places in Scotland and not leave your car.

There are only so many things you can see from behind the wheel, after all. And some of the coolest places in the Isle of Skye – like the famed Fairy pools – require a bit of a detour.

If you plan on doing any hikes along the way, stopping for meals in cozy cafes, and, well, just taking in the views, you’ll need to devote a lot more than just 5 hours to the Isle of Skye.

Don’t let the island’s small size fool you. There are so many things to see and do that you’ll want to devote at least a couple of days to exploring, if not more. 

How many days do you need to explore the Isle of Skye?

Duirinish Stone Isle of Skye Scotland

We’d recommend allotting a minimum of 2 full days for exploring the Isle of Skye. 

Even better would be 3 days/2 nights or 4 days/3 nights.

If you are an avid hiker, we’d encourage you to lean toward the longer end as this area has some seriously cool hiking opportunities.

Our experience: We personally had 3 days and 2 nights in Skye, and there were several places we did not have enough time to see. We would have loved an additional day.

10 essential Isle of Skye travel tips

Isle of Skye Scotland

Traveling around the Isle of Skye is a wee bit different than around mainland Scotland. We’ve got you covered with some essential things to know about Skye so you can make the most of your visit.

1. Be prepared to go in and out of cell signal

Cell service is spotty around the Isle of Skye. Near Portree and some other areas, we had pretty decent coverage. However, as we drove outside the main villages, we found our signal was weak or non-existent. 

Be prepared by downloading Google Maps ahead of time so you can still get directions. It’s a good idea to download the Alltrails maps for any hikes you plan to do in the Isle of Skye. (This is one of the main features that convinced us to go Pro with Alltrails, and we’ve never looked back!)

2. Stock up on snacks before getting to Skye

For being somewhat remote, there are a surprising amount of great places to eat around the Isle of Skye ( check out our top recs here ! ). 

That said, there’s a good chance that you’ll find yourself far from any dining establishment at some point during your time on the Isle of Skye. And if you plan on doing any walks or hikes, your tummy will be ‘a rumblin’ and no food in sight.

Do your travel companion a favor and avoid those cankerous hangry moments by stocking up on snacks and even some simple grab-and-go meals before you get to the Isle of Skye.

Plus, there’s some really freaking beautiful spots to have a picnic!

Sure there’s a small grocery store in Portree, but the selection is rather meh. Do your shopping in mainland Scotland so you’re all set and ready when hunger strikes.

3. Fill up your gas tank before getting to the Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Scotland

Yes, there are gas stations (called petrol stations in Scotland) around the Isle of Skye. But there aren’t many. 

We discovered this the hard way…

We were running low on gas – like, really low. There are two gas stations in Portree, and one was closed. Unless we wanted to drive 20 minutes out of the way, we were left with one option… 

And this gas station was very small, with hardly enough space for our campervan to pull through. Did I mention that there was a line? It was a 20-minute stressful ordeal that easily could have been avoided if we had simply filled our tank ahead of time.

Learn from our mistake. Fill up before reaching the Isle of Skye and hopefully you won’t have to worry about it until after your visit. 

4. Make Portree restaurant reservations in advance

food in Isle of Skye Scotland

Another mistake we made was just assuming we’d be able to find a place to eat for dinner.

We aren’t picky, we told ourselves.

We don’t mind waiting a bit, we told ourselves.

Well, it didn’t matter. 

We drove 20 minutes from our campsite to Portree to spend an hour walking around town, getting turned down by every single restaurant we walked into.

Every single restaurant was full.

And the couple mediocre fast food options that didn’t take reservations had crowds of people waiting to order.

We ended up giving up and going to the town’s only (poorly stocked) supermarket where we gathered a random assortment of things for a pretty sad dinner.

We were in such a beautiful town with excellent restaurants, and yet, here we were eating a bag of chips and a sad-looking pre-made Indian meal.

If you plan to visit Portree (you should!) and you want to have a nice seafood dinner in town (you should!), be sure to make reservations at least a few days (if not more!) in advance.

Jump down to our Isle of Skye restaurant section for our top recommendations.

5. Book your hotels or campsite well ahead of your trip

Isle of Skye Scotland

Speaking of reservations…

You’re gonna want to get on those Isle of Skye hotel reservations ASAP. 

My advice is to book those hotels before any others on your trip. Being that it is a popular tourist destination (aka high demand) and an island (limited supply), hotels here book out well in advance (especially during the peak summer months).

And what if you’re camping?

You should reserve your campsite ahead of time, too. We originally wanted to stay at the campground closest to Portree, but when we called 4 days in advance, they were already totally booked. Thankfully we found a different campground that had availability and snagged their last spot.

The lesson here is if you plan to travel around the Isle of Skye, make dinner and accommodation reservations in advance.

6. Expect rain

The Isle of Skye, like the rest of Scotland, is famously rainy. 

  • Rainiest Months: September – January
  • Driest Months: March – June

But don’t let that deter you! We visited the Isle of Skye in mid-September, which is approaching the rainiest month of the year (October). It rained in some form each day, but we were still able to do everything we had planned. 

As Scots say, “If you don’t like the weather now, wait a few minutes.”

We found that the heaviest rains didn’t last long, and would eventually turn into a fine mist (which was kind of a cool, eerie vibe). And even though we had rain every day, we also had blue skies. 

Our advice: 

  • Expect rain. If it’s wet, you won’t be disappointed. But if it doesn’t rain, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
  • Be prepared with rain gear (aka rain jackets that are waterproof, not just water resistant), an umbrella, and good shoes. As they say, “There isn’t bad weather. There’s only bad clothing.”
  • Bring your own sunshine! It sounds corny, but truly, a positive attitude can mean the difference between an adventure in the rain and a crappy day ruined by weather.

7. Be prepared for midges

Fairy Glen Isle of Skye Scotland

Midges are pesky little bugs that love nothing more than to swarm your face. Kind of like a mosquito. Talk about annoying.

Before our trip to Scotland, we read enough rants about “THE DAMN MIDGES” that we were quite worried. 

We were pretty lucky and hardly noticed them during our mid-September trip. But we were traveling in Scotland at the tail end of “midge season” (May – September).

So if your trip falls into this range, there are a few things you’ll want to know…

Things to know about midges

  • They’re most common near water sources (like rivers and lakes) and in humid weather.
  • They bite, like mosquitos. 
  • They are most active during the summer months (May – September).
  • You can check this “midge forecast” to see how bad they’re predicted to be in different locations around Scotland. It’s based on some science-y stuff like rainfall, temperatures and humidity. 

How to avoid midges

If you’re traveling during peak midge season and planning to spend a good bit of time in the outdoors, these tips will help you minimize the annoyance.

After landing in Scotland, grab yourself some Smidge . We saw this repellant at many shops all around the country, and we’ve read pretty good reviews. 

  • Alternative: We bought this natural repellant before our trip because we read it also worked for midges, though, like I said, we got lucky and didn’t have to deal with them in the first place, so we can’t speak from experience.

Get yourself a fashionable head net . It doesn’t look great, but at least you won’t have to deal with them dive bombing your ears!

8. Start your days early to avoid crowds

Isle of Skye Scotland

The Isle of Skye is one of the most popular places to visit in Scotland. And for good reason. It is absolutely epic (you probably know that by now!).

Other than crowded parking lots, we didn’t find it to be too crazy busy. There’s lots of open space and people tend to spread out.

But if you want to have the popular spots to yourself, get there early. Noon is when things start to get more crowded. 

Alternatively, if you’re not a morning person, you could aim to get to some of the bigger sites around sunset when most people have turned in for dinner. This is a sweet spot where you’ll hit that golden hour glow and fewer people to share the views with.

Insider Tip: If you do a hike around sunset, be prepared to walk back in the dark. Don’t forget your headlamp! 

9. Driving on Skye is a little different than mainland Scotland

Isle of Skye Scotland

A few things to keep in mind as you drive around the Isle of Skye:

Watch out for sheep. Yes, really. They graze beside many of the smaller roads and are known to pop out into traffic without a second thought. It happened to us on more than one occasion. So keep your eyes peeled and slow down when you see them.

Be prepared for very narrow roads. Like very narrow. So narrow that you’ll have to pull over (in a passing place) to allow online traffic to drive past.

Don’t forget to check out all of our tips for driving in Scotland !

10. Keep your Skye itinerary flexible

If possible, have a bit of flexibility in your schedule so you can choose the best weather windows for hiking (if that’s important to you). 

For example, we knew the second day of our time on the Isle of Skye would be less rainy, so that’s when we did our major hikes.

Where to stay in the Isle of Skye

When it comes to accommodation, Portree has options for all types of travelers. 

From budget-friendly campgrounds to unique glamping pods to luxurious guesthouses, there truly is something for everyone. 

We’re including accommodation recommendations in Portree (Isle of Skye’s main town) as well as options in the countryside.

Important: If you plan to visit the Isle of Skye while in Scotland, we’d recommend booking this accommodation first. Being that it is a popular tourist destination (aka high demand) and an island (limited supply), hotels here book out well in advance (especially during the peak summer months).

Hotels in Portree

Cuillin Hills Hotel Skye

Cuillin Hills Hotel : This 1880s hotel overlooking Portree Bay once belonged to the Macdonald clan. With modern and upscale rooms, 15 acres of private land, and over 130 malt whiskies onsite, this makes the perfect basecamp for exploring Skye.

Bosville Hotel

Bosville Hotel : These harbor-side, 19-century cottages have been restored and converted into a boutique hotel. Stay in the heart of Portree with some of the best views in town.

Hotels outside of Portree

Sligachan Hotel Isle of Skye

Sligachan Hotel : Tucked into rural farmland on a scenic loch in Sconser, this hotel is in one of the best places to visit in Scotland if you’re hoping to spot Highland cows. The property is right next to the iconic Sligachan Old Bridge and less than 30 minutes from the Fairy Pools, plus it has its own micro-brewery and whiskey bar onsite. 

Kinloch Lodge Hotel

Kinloch Lodge : Stay in a 17th-century hunting lodge on the banks of Loch Na Dal in Southern Skye. They also have campsites available.

Glamping in the Isle of Skye

Skeabost View Pods : These secluded, countryside cabins are the perfect escape just west of Portree. Each pod has its own kitchenette, WiFi, and private patio.

Skye Red Fox Retreat

Skye Red Fox Retreat : These sleek and compact wood cabins are the epitome of luxury glamping with full-service kitchens, working spaces, and an intimate deck with glass roofs and floor-to-ceiling windows.

North Skye Pods Isle of Skye

North Skye Pods : Feel immersed in nature along the Trotternish Ridge while being close to all the main highlights in Skye. Each pod comes with all the creature comforts and even heated floors!

Psst! Looking for more unique places to stay? We’ve got an entire list of the best glamping in Scotland with your name on it!

Camping on the Isle of Skye

Skye campsite Camping & Caravanning Club

Skye Camping and Caravanning Club Site : This is where we personally stayed during our time on the Isle of Skye and we had a nice experience. The amenities are nice enough (not the best nor the worst on our Scotland camping trip ). The location is not exactly near any major attractions, but it’s not too far out of the way, either. It is roughly a 20-minute drive to and from Portree.

Kinloch Campsite Isle of Skye

Kinloch Campsite : It doesn’t get much better than this small campground overlooking Loch Dunvegan (yep — Dunvegan Castle is just minutes away!). Campsites can accommodate tents, campervans, or motorhomes, and they’re thoughtfully tiered so everyone has a great view. Amenities include free hot showers and free wi-fi.

isle of skye scotland tourist attractions

Camus More : This campsite on the north end of the Trotternish Loop makes the perfect basecamp for exploring the top things to do in the Isle of Skye.

Portree Campsite

Portree Campsite : Conveniently located in the town of Portree, this campground has well-appointed amenities. Its proximity to town means you can enjoy a nice meal in Portree before retiring to your campervan or motorhome. 

Insider Tip: This is the most popular campsite on the island and it books up well in advance, so be sure to make your reservations ahead of time. We tried to stay here, but they were completely full when we called several days in advance of our stay.

Where to eat in the Isle of Skye

cafe in Isle of Skye

For being a relatively small and somewhat remote part of Scotland, the Isle of Skye has many excellent food options. From cozy cafes to unique venues (like a yurt!) to fine dining, there are plenty of places to choose from.

Insider Tip: While there are plenty of restaurants in Skye, we’d recommend bringing snacks with you as there are some areas where you’ll be hard-pressed to find a place to eat. Bring some staple items so you can avoid hangry moments! Your travel companion will thank you.
  • Loch Bay Seafood Restaurant : A multi-course dining experience with locally caught seafood in the loch and waters around Skye.
  • The Three Chimneys :  Isle of Skye inspired dishes from locally grown, foraged, and harvested ingredients.
  • The Oyster Shed : Freshly caught oysters and local seafood.

Cafes and quick bites

  • Bogg Myrtle : A quirky, family-run cafe with cakes, coffee, and tasty food.
  • The Noost : Lakeside cafe with tasty cakes and small eats.
  • Chidakasha Skye : An off-beat teahouse that focuses on locally sourced ingredients.
  • YURTea & Coffee : A unique cafe with coastal views, a cozy atmosphere, and sweet treats.
  • The Coffee Bothy : A cult-favorite coffee shop on Skye with light lunch food and renowned baked goods.
  • Lean To Coffee : An independent, specialty coffee shop with handmade goods and clean bites.

Portree restaurants

  • Restaurant Rosedale : Scottish tapas and seafood dishes with harbor views.
  • Sea Breezes : Seafood restaurant on the water known for their “seafood platters for two”. A friend of ours said this was her favorite meal in all of Scotland.
  • Scorrybreac : Cozy restaurant with tasting menus featuring seasonal dishes made with local ingredients sourced from the island.

Casual options in Portree

  • Pizza in the Skye : Takeaway wood-fired pizza with homemade dough and fresh ingredients.
  • Birch Cafe : Small batch specialty coffee and house made bites.
  • Isle of Skye Baking Company : Discover pastries, cakes, breads, and other treats on the outskirts of Portree.
  • Cafe Arriba : A colorful cafe in the heart of Portree serving up breakfast-to-lunch dishes.

What to pack for the Isle of Skye

With variable weather conditions, excellent hiking opportunities, and some nice restaurants, there are a few things you definitely don’t want to forget when you’re packing for a trip to the Isle of Skye.

Check out the exact items we recommend for traveling in Scotland. 

  • rain jacket (make sure it’s waterproof, not just water resistant)
  • travel umbrella
  • dry bag : to keep your valuables from getting wet on a hike
  • Hiking backpack
  • Hiking boots
  • Smart outfit if you plan to have a nice meal in Portree
  • Bug repellent: midges are common in Skye, especially during the summer months
  • Camera and lightweight tripod (optional)

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Scotland !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Scotland trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

isle of skye scotland tourist attractions

Are you planning a trip to Scotland?

We have lots of resources on travel in Scotland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Scotland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

  • Best Time to Visit Scotland: When to Go & When to Avoid!
  • Insanely Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh
  • Best Places to Visit in Scotland
  • Best Campervan Hire in Scotland: Ultimate Guide

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Isle of Skye | Two Wandering Soles

We want to hear from you!

Which of these fun things to do on the Isle of Skye has jumped to the top of your bucket list? Is there anything you think we’re missing from this list? Comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Comment (1) on “ ULTIMATE Guide to Isle of Skye, Scotland: 29 Things to do + Essential Tips ”

Wow this is a really comprehensive and insightful article. Otter spotting and a trip to Rubha Hunish and two excellent tips and rarely mentioned amongst the list of top attractions. I loved your mention of some of the local coffee shops. My wife and I have been living on Skye for 3 months.

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isle of skye scotland tourist attractions

The Quiraing, Isle of Skye

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Isle of Skye

Whether you want to visit the Isle of Skye for a few days whilst on a tour of Scotland, or stay for a longer spell, the island has countless ways to enchant you with its mountain ranges, miles of dramatic coastline and captivating history.  

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Things to Do in Skye

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Wildlife on Skye

Discover the wildlife on Skye.

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Arts and crafts on Skye

Explore the inspirational arts and craft scene of the island.

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Winter wildlife walks on Skye

Plan your walking trip on Skye.

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Visit the Isle of Raasay

Find out more about this island near Skye.

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Visit Plockton

Discover the "jewel of the Highlands".

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6 Famous Film Locations on Skye

Discover famous film locations on the Isle of Skye, including Dunvegan Castle, The Fairy Glen and more.

Inspiration for Skye breaks

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Portree harbour

Places to stay

Find out all you need to know about the best hotels in Skye, camping in Skye, Skye holiday cottages and all the best places to stay in Skye.

isle of skye scotland tourist attractions

Neist Point, Isle of Skye

Tours, routes & trails

Check out our ideas for short breaks and trips around Skye.

Unique experiences

Experience Skye's unique culture, landscape and heritage with whale watching, whisky and even dinosaurs!

isle of skye scotland tourist attractions

The Hebridean Whale Trail

The Hebridean Whale Trail brings together over 30 of the most beautiful corners of Scotland's west coast.

Staffin Dinosaur Museum

The Staffin Dinosaur Museum is home to an internationally acclaimed collection of dinosaur fossils.

isle of skye scotland tourist attractions

Hebridean Whisky Trail

The Hebridean Whisky Trail is an exciting and unique opportunity to experience the rich culture, provenance and landscape of four Hebridean islands.

Map of Skye

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Travel to and around Skye

Getting around.

The Caledonian MacBrayne ferry (Mallaig to Skye) runs daily from the port of Mallaig in the west Highlands to Armadale in Sleat on the south of Skye. You can get to Mallaig by road or train.

Plan your trip on the CalMac website

The privately-operated Glenelg ferry connects Glenelg on the mainland with Kylerhea on Skye.

Visit the Glenelg-Skye ferry website

The Skye Bridge is a road bridge spanning Loch Alsh between the mainland village of Kyle of Lochalsh which is connected to Scotland's rail network, and Kyleakin on Skye. Buses go directly from Glasgow to Skye and Inverness to Skye, too.

Find out more about driving to Skye

Bus and coach

The island is served by Stagecoach buses, connecting the main villages.

Check out the Stagecoach Skye timetables

It's easy to get around Skye and the scenery you'll see as you travel round the island is pretty unbelievable!

Driving around Skye is the preferred option for many visitors as it offers the most flexibility and access to more remote spots. Some of the island's roads are single track, with ample passing places.

Find Isle of Skye driving tips 

What's on in Skye

isle of skye scotland tourist attractions

Sunset at the Fairy Glen on the Isle of Skye

Find out about all of the great events   happening in Skye and Lochalsh, from the Skye Festival (Fèis an Eilein) in July to the Skye Highland Games in August.

Places to Eat in Skye

isle of skye scotland tourist attractions

Mussels from The Oyster Shed

© Kim Walton

Food & Drink

From a warming cup of coffee to fresh, local produce or epic island whisky, there's plenty of food and drink to enjoy on Skye. 

A tip from your local expert

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The Storr and the Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye.

© Kenny Lam, VisitScotland. All rights reserved.

Meet the Oldest Man in Skye and follow in the footsteps of dinosaurs. Roam through some of the world's most recognisable scenery at the Old Man of Storr and charge up your batteries with local seafood and a dram.

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Best Things To Do in Isle of Skye, Scotland by JetSettingFools.com

22 Best Things To Do in Isle of Skye, Scotland 

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Isle of Skye, Scotland is dramatic and beautiful. The mountains are majestic and the landscapes are otherworldly. The top things to do in Isle of Skye, Scotland revolve around the island’s unique natural aspects – and we are highlighting all the best sights to see!

On our weeklong trip to Isle of Skye, we soaked in the sublime scenery. From challenging hiking trails to marvelous viewpoints to boat rides across the bay, we savored every second we spent on Isle of Skye. Our tips for the best Isle of Skye things to do are based on our own personal experiences – plus a few tips from locals!

Things To Do in Isle of Skye FAQs

Before we dive into our list of the Best Things To Do Isle of Skye, Scotland, we want to answer a few frequently asked questions. Knowing the basics will help you plan your vacation to Scotland!

Where is Isle of Skye?

Isle of Skye sits just off the west coast of Scotland in the United Kingdom – and is connected to the mainland by a bridge. Skye is part of the Inner Hebrides, which is an archipelago of 35 inhabited islands along the western coast.

Later in the article, we share an Isle of Skye Map marked with top attractions. Additionally, we share tips on how to get to Isle of Skye in our Travel Tips section.

Are There Free Things To Do in the Isle of Skye?

Yes, there are several things to do on Isle of Skye for free. Hiking the trails and admiring the landscapes are two of the best activities in Skye – and neither of them cost a penny!

That said, Isle of Skye is not necessarily a budget destination – as the cost of accommodations, dining out and public transportation are all quite high.

Are There Things To Do on Isle of Skye with Kids?

Yes, there are many things to do in Skye for families traveling with kids. From easier trails to dinosaur relics to castles and beaches, parents should have no problem seeking out Isle of Skye attractions for families.

While our list of sights is not dedicated to family travel, we highlight many kid-friendly Isle of Skye things to do.

What are the Best Outdoor Skye Things To Do?

The island is a wonderland of outdoor activities – with the most popular adventure being hiking on the Isle of Skye. There are short hikes and multi-day treks, easy jaunts and difficult climbs.

On our list of Isle of Skye Best Things To Do, we feature many hikes that are easy to moderate treks.

Are There Things To Do in Skye when it Rains?

It rains fairly frequently on the Isle of Skye…there is a reason why it is nicknamed The Misty Isle! Rather than fretting about the wet weather, it is best to be prepared with rainy day gear. We share our advice on what to pack for Isle of Skye later in the article.

That said, there are a few indoor things to do on Skye when it rains – like whisky tastings and visiting museums.

How Big is the Isle of Skye?

Skye is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland – but just how big is Isle of Skye? The island covers an area of 639 square miles. It’s about 50 miles from top to bottom and 25 miles across.

The best Isle of Skye, Scotland things to do are spread across the island. However, we think most the most stunning terrain is north on the Trotternish Peninsula.

What To Do on the Isle of Skye without a Car?

Many people contend that a car is necessary to visit Isle of Skye, Scotland – but it’s simply not true!

Yes, driving on Isle of Skye allows for more freedom and flexibility, but there are quite a few disadvantages to having a car on the island. Renting a car can be expensive, parking can be a challenge and driving on the left – on single-track roads – can be nerve-wracking.

Instead of driving, we opted to use a combination of public transit and tours for our Isle of Skye trip. While the buses were limited and we had to carefully plan what to see on the Isle of Skye each day, we were very happy to be car-free for the week.

We share our top tips for getting around Skye – with or without a car – later in the post.

How Many Days on Isle of Skye, Scotland?

One of the biggest decisions to make about your Skye trip is determining how many days to stay. Is 1 day in Isle of Skye enough? Is a week on Skye too much?

In our opinion, Skye is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Scotland – so we highly recommend carving out enough time to really enjoy it. While visitors can take a day trip to Isle of Skye, we think spending at least 3 days on Skye is ideal.

We share a complete day-by-day trip plan in our Perfect Skye Itinerary !

Planning a Trip to Isle of Skye

Planning an Isle of Skye trip takes a bit of effort and organization. In addition to deciding what to do on Isle of Skye, Scotland, visitors are also tasked with determining how many days, where to stay and what to eat. Don’t fret, in this Isle of Skye, Scotland Travel Guide, we cover everything you need to know!

Most trips to Isle of Skye are part of a longer Scotland itinerary . If your visit includes other top destinations in Scotland, these articles might be useful:

  • How To Spend 3 Days in Edinburgh – plus, What and Where To Eat ! 
  • Top Glasgow Attractions
  • What To See in Inverness
  • Visiting the Village of Plockton, Scotland
  • Hiking the West Highland Way

Travelers visiting Scotland from abroad will also find it helpful to read our tips for Planning a European Vacation .

Organize Your Isle of Skye Trip

As you start making your travel plans, staying organized is key. We recommend using a trip planner – like our Printable Travel Planner – to stay on top of all the important details.

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BEST THINGS TO DO IN ISLE OF SKYE, SCOTLAND

How to find all the Best Things To Do on Isle of Skye, Scotland

Now that we have covered the basic info, it’s time to get to our list of Things To Do on Isle of Skye, Scotland.

Save, Pin or Bookmark this Skye Island Travel Guide to plan your trip to Scotland!

#1 Stand in Awe of Old Man of Storr

Best View of Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye, Scotland, uk

Ranking as one of the top attractions in Isle of Skye and serving as a symbol of the island, Old Man of Storr is an Isle of Skye must see sight!

The ‘Old Man’ – a 164-foot-tall rocky pinnacle – stands on its own, separated from the cliffs of The Storr. Part of the Trotternish Ridge and a fine example of the landslips that are so characteristic of the island, the oblong rock appears to be standing precariously on one end: balanced, but with a slight tilt.

Hike to Old Man of Storr

Go Hike to Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye, Scotland, UK

Of all the things to do on Skye, hiking up to Old Man of Storr is a top activity! There are two paths that lead up to Old Man Storr – and both continue on to a naturally elevated viewpoint that provides an outstanding vista of the rock formation.

Views of Old Man Storr while on the Hike, Skye, Scotland

We recommend taking the longer, sloping route, rather than the steep and crowded path that ascends directly toward Old Man. In addition to Old Man Storr, points of interest along the route are the Sanctuary (at the base of the towering cliffs), Needle Rock (also called The Cathedral and recognizable by the hole eroded in the rock near the top) and views across the bay to Raasay Island.

There is a parking lot (with paid parking) at the trailhead, as well as free toilets. The trailhead can also be reached by bus #57.

#2 Gaze at Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls

Kilt Rock View from Brother's Point, Isle of Skye, Scotland

A distinct basalt-column cliff that faces the sea, Kilt Rock is an intriguing rock formation – and getting a good look at it is one of the top things to do in Skye, Scotland.

Kilt Rock rises 295 feet (90 meters) from the sea and the vertical basalt rock pillars resemble the pleats of a Scottish kilt. When the sunlight is just right, the colors appear to form a plaid pattern, much like a traditional tartan of Scottish clans.

Nearby, water spills from Loch Mealt over the cliff edge and streams 180 feet into the sea below. The Mealt Waterfall is a gorgeous sight from near and far.

How To See Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls

Brother's Point to Kilt Rock, Skye, Scotland

The easiest way to see Mealt Falls and Kilt Rock is from the designated viewpoint, where there is plenty of room for parking as well as a bus stop. The viewing platform stands right next to the waterfall, with Kilt Rock just beyond it. Although the angle is a bit awkward, both natural attractions are visible.

Both Kilt Rock and Mealt Waterfall can also be seen from afar, at places like Brother’s Point (above photo and #6 on our list).

#3 Wander through the Enchanting Fairy Glen

Views over Fairy Glen, Isle of Skye, Scotland, UK

Mystical and almost spellbinding, the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen is a spectacular sight! In fact, we think it is one of the best things to see in Scotland.

The Fairy Glen is comprised of grassy knolls, rocky buttes and glassy ponds. In the vast and immense terrain of Skye, the glen appears miniature and intimate (which, they say, is an ideal place for fairies to live). Under a clear and sunny sky, the glen is a bright, vivid green, but when it’s misty and fog settles in, the glen looks like an unearthly realm.

Must Visit Fairy Glen, Skye, Scotland

Wandering along the rustic paths that weave through the whimsical glen is one of the best Isle of Skye things to do. Take in the scenic viewpoints, clamber to the top of Castle Ewan (the tallest rock formation in the glen)…and keep an eye out for fairies!

Visitors can get to Fairy Glen by car or public bus (plus a 30 minute walk). Most Skye day tours stop here, as well.

#4 Let the Beautiful Quiraing Leave You Speechless

View from The Quiraing, Isle of Skye, Scotland

The Quiraing is the most awe-inspiring region of the island. The naturally contoured land ranks as one of the top things to see in Skye, Scotland and the striking beauty left us speechless.

With jagged peaks, sloping escarpments and grassy plateaus, the panoramic vistas are mesmerizing. Visitors can get a glimpse of the Quiraing from the main parking lot, but the best views are along the trail.

Quiraing Hikes on Isle of Skye

Trails while Hiking the Quiraing, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Hiking the Quiraing is one of the Top Things To Do Isle of Skye. The challenging trail can be completed in a 4-mile loop or as an out-and-back by trekking to one of the most scenic points – between the ‘Prison’ and ‘Needle’ rock formations.

Public buses do not travel through the Quiraing, but it is possible to take Bus 57 to the Flodigarry Hike Parking Lot on A855 and follow the trail into the Quiraing, which will add a couple of miles to the hike each way.

#5 Visit Neist Point Lighthouse

Best View of Neist Point Lighthouse, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Visiting Neist Point Lighthouse is a top thing to do on Isle of Skye. Not only is the scene stunningly picturesque, but the viewpoint is also ideal for spotting wildlife.

The lighthouse on Neist Point dates to the year 1909 and is one of the most famous landmarks in Scotland. Marking the westernmost point of the Isle of Skye, the lighthouse stands 62 feet tall atop a sensational 140-foot cliff.

The Neist Point Lighthouse on Skye, Scotland

From the point, visitors can scan the waters for sea creatures, such as whales, dolphins, porpoises and basking sharks. Neist Point is also an excellent place to spot sea birds – and sunsets are said to be phenomenal.

A paved path leads down a steep set of stairs and then on to the point, but the lighthouse itself is not accessible. We actually found the best Neist Point Lighthouse views along the cliffs to the west from the parking lot. There is no public bus service to Neist Point, but it is an included stop on many organized Skye tours.

#6 Search for Dinosaur Prints at Brother’s Point

Search for Dinosaur Prints at Brother’s Point, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Searching for dinosaur footprints is one of the unusual things to do on Isle of Skye. Some skeptics may wonder if it is just a ploy, but it is legit! The footprints of dinosaurs that roamed the land 170 million years ago can be found in a couple different places on Skye Island, but Brother’s Point has the best examples.

Find these Rocks with dinosaur prints, Brothers Point, Isle of Skye

The dinosaur footprints at Brother’s Beach are a cluster of 7 3-toed dino prints that are close to the water’s edge. The prints are unmarked, but can be found on the large, flat rock at the shoreline –and it’s best to go at low tide.

Brother’s Point Hike

Go on the Brother’s Point Hike, Skye, Scotland

In addition to searching for ancient evidence of dinosaurs, visitors can also embark on a beautiful coastline hike at Brother’s Point. The lesser-known trek is one of the best hikes on Isle of Skye.

After following the path past the sheep down to the water (where the prints are), cross the rocky beach and join the trail leads south along the coast. Although it can be muddy at points – and the cliff-edge trail out to the point is not for the faint of heart – the view is unsurpassed!

Uncrowded and moderate difficulty, the hike quickly became one of our favorite Isle of Skye things to do.

Brother’s Point can be reached by car or Bus 57.

#7 Explore the Historic Dunvegan Castle

Dunvegan Castle ranks as the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and visiting is one of the best things to do on the Isle of Skye. Home to the MacLeod Clan for more than 800 years, Dunvegan Castle is architecturally significant and rich in history.

Visitors can explore the castle rooms and marvel at the artifacts while learning about the lives of the inhabitants. Castle tickets include entry into the meticulously manicured gardens.

Additionally, tickets can be upgraded to include a boat trip. Departing from the castle pier, passengers can catch a glimpse of the Loch Dunvegan Seal Colony.

Dunvegan Castle can be reached by car (free parking) or bus. Some Isle of Skye tours include a stop at the castle, but typically don’t include the cost of the entry ticket.

#8 Walk along the Magical Fairy Pools

Waterfall at the Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye, Scotland

A series of tumbling waterfalls spilling into turquoise pools, the Fairy Pools are a magical sight and one of the most famous Skye attractions. A tributary of the Brittle River, the stream is fed by fresh mountain water from the mighty Cuillin Mountains, which backdrop the scenic series of falls.

The Fairy Pools are reached on foot via a gravel path – and the trail follows alongside the falls, making it relatively easy for visitors to enjoy the scenery (save for the pesky midges!).

Misty view of the Fairy Pools, Skye, Scotland

The pools are frigid, yet swimming in the chilly waters remains one of the Things To Do Skye – so it is not uncommon to see brave souls heading in for a dip.

Visitors can reach the Fairy Pools by car or bus. Adventurous travelers can hike to the Fairy Pools from Sligachan (5 miles one way). Most tours on Isle of Skye stop at the Fairy Pools, as well. Bathrooms are available in the parking lot and there is a place to refill water bottles.

#9 Sip Whisky at a Local Skye Distillery

Talisker Distillery Whisky, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Sipping local whisky is one of the top things to do in Isle of Skye – and there are two Skye whiskey distilleries where visitors can sniff, swirl and sip the locally produced product.

Talisker Distillery, which is situated on the Minginish Peninsula under the gaze of the Cuillins Mountains, is the oldest working distillery on Isle of Skye. Dating to 1830, Talisker welcomes visitors for distillery tours and tastings. (And, the nearby Oyster Shed is a top seafood restaurant in Skye operating out of a rustic tin shack.)

Visitors can also tour the distillery and taste whisky at Torabhaig on the Sleat Peninsula. A relatively new distillery (opened in 2017), Torabhaig is housed in a renovated 19th century building and offers affordable tours.

#10 Snap a Photo of Grazing Sheep and Highland Coos

Sheep grazing on Isle of Skye, Scotland

While the wild and unruly landscapes of the Isle of Skye are fascinating, but for the local farmers, the land is a pasture. Grazing sheep and cows are a regular sight around the island – and sometimes the farm animals even wander onto the roads and trails.

Snapping a photo of the curious creatures is one of the fun things to do in the Isle of Skye. Just be sure to keep a safe distance – and don’t chase or feed the animals!

Sheep seem to be everywhere; in fact, it would be impossible to visit Skye, Scotland and not see sheep roaming the fields.

Look for a Highland Cow on Isle of Skye, Scotland

The much-loved hairy, Highland cows – or coos, as they are affectionately called – are a bit more elusive. The best place to see the hairy coos is at Hector’s Highland Coos Scottish Cows Farm, which is right off A87 near Sconser.

#11 Watch the Tumbling Lealt Falls

View of Lealt Falls, Isle of Skye, Scotland

A dazzling, multi-tiered waterfall, Lealt Falls is one of the beautiful things to see in Skye, Scotland. The River Lealt tumbles down a deep and rocky gorge, dropping a total of 300 feet before joining the Sound of Raasay.

Platform view of Lealt Falls, Skye, Scotland

A wooden viewing platform extends over the gorge, offering fine views of the Upper Falls. However, it is worth trekking down to the lower viewing area for a different vantage point. Experienced hikers can trek down a set of zig-zag tracks to the rocky shoreline for an impressive view of the lower falls and abandoned buildings.

The Lealt Waterfall can be reached by car or Bus 57.

#12 Spend a Few Hours in Sligachan

View of the Sligachan Old Bridge, Isle of Skye, Scotland

The small and historic settlement of Sligachan sits at a significant crossroad on Skye. From Sligachan, roads lead north to Portree, northwest to Dunvegan and south to Broadford – and hiking trails head west into the majestic Cuillin Mountain Range.

The top attraction is the Sligachan Old Bridge, which was built in 1810. Nearby is the Collie and MacKenzie Statue, a bronze memorial dedicated to the Cuillins mountaineers, who are credited for creating many of the hiking trails we use today.

The Collie and MacKenzie Statue, Sligachan, Isle of Skye, Scotland

One of the best things to do on Isle of Skye is to follow the trails along the Sligachan River while taking in the epic mountain views. Another trek leads to the nearby Sligachan Waterfalls – and continues all the way to the Fairy Pools, while a separate trail extends all the way to Loch Coruisk.

Visitors can also stop by the Seumas Bar for a meal and pint. In addition to the huge selection of whisky, they have local beer on tap and in cans from several regional brewers, including the Cuillin Brewery, which is right next door.

Sligachan can be reached by car or bus.

#13 Set Sail to Raasay Island

Beach on Raasay Island, Scotland

Sitting just across the sea to the east of Skye is the Isle of Raasay – and it is another wonderful place to visit in Scotland! The small island can be reached by a short and inexpensive boat ride from the Sconser Ferry Terminal. Schedule and Fares .

The top things to do in Raasay are hiking and biking. The best hiking trails follow the coastline and delve into forests. This pamphlet outlines the easy hikes near the Raasay Ferry Port. Travelers who want to explore on two wheels can rent bikes from Raasay House (which is a hotel, restaurant, equipment rental and tourist information destination all wrapped into one).

Drinks at The Isle of Raasay Distillery, Scotland

Visiting the island’s distillery is another one of the top Isle of Raasay things to do. The Isle of Raasay Distillery is just a short walk from the ferry pier and they offer engaging guided tours of their facilities – plus they have an exceptional bar with outstanding views of Skye.

Best Isle of Skye view from Isle of Raasay, Scotland

To be honest, our absolute favorite part of Raasay were the incredible Isle of Skye views. The headland to the northwest of the ferry port is the best place to savor the vistas…and it’s a good spot for a picnic lunch, too!

#14 Hike to the Most Northern Point of Skye

View of Rubha Hunish, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Rubha Hunish is one of the best places to visit on Isle of Skye, Scotland. Only accessible by a well-trodden hiking trail, the most northern point of Isle of Skye is rustic and remote.

The trail can be completed in a loop – using an upper trail (stunning views) combined with the lower coastline trail (somewhat boggy and undefined) – or as an out-and-back from the parking lot utilizing only the upper trail.

Most Northern Point of Skye and the bothy, Scotland

Perched on the cliff above the trail is a bothy – and the mountain hut is open to all, so trek up and take a peek inside! A steep and challenging trail descends from the cliff down to the point, but we opted to simply take in the vast and spacious northern views from the clifftop.

View of Duntulm Castle, Isle of Skye, Scotland

On the coastline to the southwest of the Rubha Hunish Point is the ruins of the Duntulm Castle. Visitors can freely explore the remains. Dinosaur prints have also been discovered here on rocks along the beach to the south of the castle.

#15 Discover the Best of Portree

Discover the Best of Portree, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Portree, a tourist hub of hotels, restaurants and shops, is the biggest and busiest town on the island – and visitors will find some of the best things to do on the Isle of Skye in Portree.

Like many travelers, we based ourselves in Portree for our Skye Island trip and spent ample time checking out the sights in town.

Hike the Scorrybreac coastal trail, Portree, Isle of Skye, Scotland

The top things to do in town are hiking along the Scorrybreac coastal trail, trekking up The Lump and taking in the picture-perfect vistas of the harbor and colorful houses.

We share details on what to see and do in our article, Best Things To Do in Portree, Scotland .

#16 Learn the History of Skye at a Local Museum

Entrance to the Skye Museum of Island Life, Scotland

After touring the top Isle of Skye sights, many visitors begin wondering, What is the History of Isle of Skye? – and there are two fantastic museums that precisely answer that question!

The Skye Museum of Island Life maintains a wealth of information about the past. Featuring preserved thatched cottages once used by crofters, the museum shares the history of the local people – as well as the story of Bonnie Prince Charlie, the Jacobites and Flora MacDonald.

The Staffin Dinosaur Museum is one of the places to go in Isle of Skye to learn about the ancient history of the island. Displays at the museum feature prehistoric fossils and fascinating finds. 

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More Things To Do, Isle of Skye

Boats in Portree Harbour, Isle of Skye, Scotland

We have highlighted what, in our opinion, are the best things to see in Skye – but there are a few more sights and attractions that were recommended to us by locals that we want to share.

#17 Armadale Castle and Gardens

Reigning as one of the most magnificent castles on Isle of Skye during the early 19th century, Armadale Castle now sits in ruins. The castle, which belongs to the MacDonald Clan, overlooks the Sound of Sleat and features a splendid 40-acre garden. With a ticket, visitors can visit the castle grounds and on-site museum that details the history of Clan Donald.

Dunscaith Castle is another Isle of Skye castle on the Sleat Peninsula. The crumbling ruins of Dunscaith can be visited for free.

#18 Sleat Peninsula

The Sleat Peninsula marks the southern end of the Isle of Skye. The green foliage on the peninsula has earned it the nickname of The Garden of Skye and it is characterized by castles ruins, quaint villages and lush scenery.

We have already mentioned a few of the most popular things to do on the Sleat Peninsula, but there are a few more reasons to head south on the Isle of Skye. First, Sleat is far less crowded than other parts of the island – and a preferred refuge for travelers looking for a quiet place to visit on Skye.

Active explorers can set off on some excellent walks from Sleat. One recommended trail follows the shore of the Black Lochs and another trek leads down to the southern Point of Sleat (where you can detour to the hidden, white sand Camas Daraich Beach!). Kilmore Church is another one of the things to see on Isle of Skye to the south – as it is an interesting and atmospheric place to visit.

While parts of the Sleat Peninsula can be accessed by public bus, a car really is necessary to explore most of this area of Skye.

#19 Dun Beag Broch

Although it is mostly in ruins, Dun Beag Broch stone tower is one of the best places in Isle of Skye to learn about the history of the mysterious Picts.

The Picts were an Iron Age society that settled Scotland, but much of their history is shrouded in myth and legend. One thing that is thought to be true is that they built numerous hollow stone towers, called broch, on elevated points of land.

Dun Beag Broch on the west side of Skye is an excellent example of the Pictish round towers. It stands on a hill with views over Loch Bracadale and the Cuillin Mountains. The tower is estimated to be between 2,000 and 2,500 years old.

#20 Boat Trips on Isle of Skye

View of the Ferry from Sconser to Raasay, Scotland

While there are heaps of things to see on the Isle of Skye, one of the best ways to experience the area is by boat.

Taking the ferry from Sconser to Raasay is a great way to get out on the water and one of the fun and cheap things to do on Isle of Skye. However, there are several exciting Skye boat cruises that tourist can join.

Fun Boat Trips on Isle of Skye, Scotland

From the Portree Harbor, visitors can embark on wildlife spotting boat tours, offering participants a chance to see dolphins, puffins, sea eagles, seals and even whales!

Travelers can also opt to join a boat tour from Elgol that traverses the breathtaking Loch Coruisk – like the popular Bella Jane Cruise . Scenic wildlife boat tours also depart Elgol on the AquaXplore to visit the islands off the southwestern tip of Skye. 

#21 Multiday Hike on Isle of Skye

Go Hiking to The Quiraing, Skye, Scotland

While we enjoyed hiking Isle of Skye on single day treks, there are longer trails that adventurous travelers can use for a multiday trip.

Hiking the Isle of Skye on a multiday trek can be both challenging and rewarding. The Skye Trail is an 80-mile route that takes in some of the best of Skye’s attractions in 7 outstanding stages.

#22 Isle of Skye Tours

Join an Isle of Skye Tour, Scotland

With our list of Things To Do Skye, Scotland, visitors can pretty easily plan adventures on their own. That said, there are benefits to joining an organized day tour – like having a local guide to share their insight and getting to enjoy a more relaxed trip that requires little-to-no planning on your part.

During our stay on Skye, we opted to join a tour that featured a few of the best Skye tourist attractions that are not easily reached by bus – and it was an absolutely fabulous experience!

The 1 Day Isle of Skye Tour by Real Scottish Journeys is a small-group tour that not only included top sights, but also allowed time for exploring some of the most beautiful places on foot.

That said, there a several tours on Isle of Skye that focus on a variety of interests. Visitors can join tours that include a distillery stop, partake in a guided hiking tour or simply sit back and enjoy the scenery on a Scenic Spots tour .

Looking for an organized tour to Isle of Skye from other Scotland destinations? We share tips on bus tours to Isle of Skye from destinations around Scotland in the Getting There section below.

TOP THINGS TO DO NEAR ISLE OF SKYE

Best Plockton Scotland Viewpoints

There is no doubt that there is a plethora of things to see in Isle of Skye. Travelers who want to see more of the region have many choices, as well. We are sharing a few of the top places to see near Isle of Skye.

Views from the Brae Track over the town of Plockton, Scotland

The picturesque Village of Plockton is just 7 miles from the bridge to Isle of Skye – and it’s a wonderful place to spend a few hours or a full day. Find our top tips in our article, Best Things To See in Plockton, Scotland .

Eilean Donan Castle

View of the Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland, Highlands, UK

Situated just 10 miles from the Skye Bridge, Eilean Donan Castle is regularly touted as one of the best castles in Scotland. The impressive stone structure, which sits imposingly on an island, is truly picture-perfect! 

Looking for Nessie at Loch Ness, Scotland

The Legend of Nessie the Loch Ness Monster has long made Loch Ness one of the top tourist attractions in the Scottish Highlands. While searching for the obscure creature is a top activity, enticing waterfalls, charming lakeside villages and pleasant hiking trails are just a few more reasons to spend a day at Loch Ness.

Inverness and the Scottish Highlands

Best View of Inverness, Scotland, UK

Inverness is the bustling capital of the Scottish Highlands and a great place to visit. Even better, the route from Skye to Inverness offers some of the most incredible vistas in Scotland. Read our advice for What To Do in Inverness to make sure you don’t miss a thing!

Where To Eat: Best Restaurants in Isle of Skye

As well as determining the best things to do in Skye, visitors also need to figure out where to eat. We are sharing a few favorite Isle of Skye restaurants.

The Isles Inn

A traditional Scottish pub in the heart of Portree, The Isles Inn offers classics, like Cullen skink, haggis and steak pie in a cozy and atmospheric environment. In addition to the tasty and hearty food, the bar is stocked with Scottish whisky and local craft beer.

Pizza in the Skye Food Truck

A favorite local spot for wood-fired pizzas in Portree, Pizza in the Skye serves up tasty creations at fair prices. The truck is located outside the busy center of Portree, in a parking lot behind the Gaelic school. Just be sure to place your order well in advance!

Sea Breezes

A top restaurant in Skye housed in one of the colorful buildings on Portree Harbour, Sea Breezes specializes in locally caught seafood. The Skye mussels are highly recommended – but for a big appetite, get the seafood platter. As with anywhere on Skye, advance reservations are a must!

Michelin Restaurants in Isle of Skye

Travelers looking for upscale eats can find fine dining at one of the several Michelin Guide restaurants on Skye. Loch Bay is a Michelin Star restaurant noted for their modern cuisine, while The Three Chimneys, Scorrybreac Restaurant and Coruisk House are all Michelin mentioned.

Map of Isle of Skye, Scotland

We have marked the top things to do for Isle of Skye on the map below. Use this link to Google for an interactive version of our map of Skye.

Looking for a paper Isle of Skye, Scotland Map? The VisitScotland Portree iCenter provides a useful Isle of Skye attractions map for free!

Isle of Skye Map by JetSettingFools.com

Isle of Sky Travel Tips

Isle of Sky Travel Tips for your vacation to Scotland

Now that you are well on your way to creating your ultimate Isle of Skye to do list, we have a few final travel tips that will help make planning your visit simple!

Best Time to Go to Isle of Skye

Many travelers want to know, When is the best time to visit Skye, Scotland? Unfortunately, there isn’t one clear answer. Each season on Skye has pros and cons.

Summer is naturally an excellent time to visit, as the top things to do on Isle of Skye are outdoor adventures – and summertime brings the best weather. However, summers in Skye can be extremely crowded and prices are at their peak.

Autumn can be a wonderful season to see Skye – as most tourists have dispersed – but there is a higher chance of rain during the autumn months.

While many travelers avoid Skye in winter due to the cold weather and short days, it can be an exceptional time for travelers looking for solitude. Plus, there is a chance of seeing the Northern Lights from Skye!

Late spring – April and May – is an ideal time for visiting Isle of Skye. Spring offers some of the best weather on the island…and it’s not yet inundated with fellow travelers.

Getting To Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye, Scotland can be reached by car, bus or ferry. There are no commercial flights to Isle of Skye. The closest airport to Skye is Inverness (INV). Visitors can also fly into Edinburgh (EDI) or Glasgow (GLA) and then make their way to Skye via rental car or public transport.

Travelers renting a car should use our tips for Finding the Best Car Rentals Rates . Also, before booking that plane ticket, check out our advice for scoring Cheap Flights .

Driving To Isle of Skye

Although it can feel quite remote, driving to the Isle of Skye is actually quite straight forward. A short, toll-free bridge links Isle of Skye to the mainland at Kyle of Lochalsh.

 Additionally, there are car ferries to Isle of Skye from Mallaig and Glenelg.

Getting to the Isle of Skye by Public Transport

Visitors trying to get to Isle of Skye via public transit have a few options. There are direct buses that transport passengers from Glasgow and Inverness to Skye – and a combination of trains, buses and ferries can be used to get to the island from other destinations.

Inverness to Isle of Skye

The best way to get to Isle of Skye from Inverness is by taking the bus . The bus to Isle of Skye from Inverness takes about 3 hours and there are multiple departures daily. The bus departs from the main station in Inverness and terminates at Somerled Square in Portree.

The bus route between Inverness and Skye passes by Eilean Donan Castle and amazing Highlands scenery; sit on the left side for the best views!

There is no direct train from Inverness to Skye, but travelers can take the incredibly scenic Kyle Line train from the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh. From there, buses continue across the bridge to Isle of Skye and on to Portree or Uig.

Glasgow to Isle of Skye

Wondering how to go to Isle of Skye from Glasgow by bus? No worries! There are direct buses to Isle of Skye from Glasgow – via Fort William – that depart multiple times a day .

Travelers can also take a train from Glasgow to Fort William on the scenic West Highland Line and transfer to a bus in Fort William that continues on to Portree.

Alternatively, take the same scenic ScotRail train from Glasgow to Mallaig – and then hop on a ferry to Isle of Skye, docking at Armadale. Travelers going on to Portree can take an Isle of Skye bus to complete the trip.

Edinburgh to Isle of Skye

Visitors making the trip to Isle of Skye from Edinburgh will need to make at least one stop on their journey. The most convenient ways to travel between Edinburgh and Isle of Skye is via Glasgow or Inverness.

Travelers can take a train or bus to either Glasgow or Inverness from Edinburgh – then board a direct bus to Isle of Skye.

Tours to Skye, Scotland

Rather than fretting about how to plan a trip to Skye, visitors can opt to join one of the organized tours from Inverness, Edinburgh or Glasgow.

Inverness Tours to Isle of Skye

The highly rated full-day tours to Isle of Skye from Inverness make the most of the day by taking in top attractions on Skye – and great sights along the route. Get the details of this day trip to Isle of Skye!

Multiday Glasgow to Isle of Skye Tours

Leave the hassle of transportation and trip planning to the professionals and sit back, relax and enjoy a 3-day trip to the Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye from Glasgow. Find out more!

Edinburgh to Isle of Skye 3-Day Trip

Let a professional guide lead the way to the best places to see in the Highlands and Isle of Skye on a 3-day planned trip from Edinburgh. Learn more here!  

Getting Around Isle of Skye

Travelers can get around Skye by car or bus – and there are advantages and disadvantages to each method of travel.

Driving in Isle of Skye

Using a car to get around Isle of Skye allows for the most freedom and flexibility – but we have a few tips for drivers.

Know the rules. Most of the roads on Isle of Skye are single track – meaning two-way traffic shares a single lane and drivers must use passing berms (lay-bys) to get around oncoming traffic. Also, traffic priority is often applied directionally, so read those road signs carefully!

Pay To Park. The most popular attractions on Isle of Skye have paid parking. Signs in the car park will indicate if a ticket is required.

Rent a Car on Skye. Travelers who plan on taking a tour or utilizing buses on some days can opt to rent a car for only a day from Portree.

Buses on Isle of Skye

Many of the top things to do on Isle of Skye can be reached by bus – and for our trip, we relied solely on buses, tours and ferries to get around. That said, bus schedules are limited and vary by day of week and season, so it is essential to consult current timetables when making plans.

There are two companies that provide bus routes on the Isle of Skye: Stagecoach and CityLink .

Skye Stagecoach Buses

Stagecoach offers the most frequent routes on Skye. The #57 is a fantastic route around the Trotternish Peninsula that makes stops at all of the attractions in the region, including Old Man of Storr, Brother’s Point, Kilt Rock, Lealt Falls and trailheads for hikes to the Quiraing and Rubha Hunish. Bus #57C travels the peninsula clockwise, while #57A travels anti-clockwise.

Stagecoach Bus #52 travels between Portree and Armadale, passing through Sligachan and Broadford. Bus #54 can be used to travel from Portree to Fairy Pools and Bus #56 goes from Portree to Dunvegan Castle. 

Tickets are purchased from the driver and can be paid with cash or a contactless card. Travelers taking two rides in a single day typically benefit by purchasing a Day Rider Ticket. Check with the driver for the best ticket option for your trip.

CityLink Buses on Skye

The CityLink buses can also be used to get around but are limited to a single route onwards from Kyle of Lochalsh; crossing the Isle of Skye Bridge continuing on to Portree and (sometimes) Uig.

Hitchhiking on Skye

Fellow travelers and locals mentioned hitchhiking on the Isle of Skye as a viable way to get around. Although we never tried it ourselves, we did see some trying their luck for a free ride both in and out of Portree.

Where To Stay on Isle of Skye

There are ample options for places to stay on Isle of Skye. From hotels to hostels, glamping to camping,  Airbnbs to bed-and-breakfasts, there are accommodations aimed at all styles.

Travelers with a car might opt to stay in a remote location, but for those using Isle of Skye buses or plan to join Skye Tours, should stay in Portree.

Hotels on Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye hotels are found in towns and villages across the island. Before making your reservation, be sure to read our advice for Finding the Best Hotels . 

Cuillin Hills Hotel

A superb property in Portree, Cuillin Hills Hotel is both classy and cozy. The hotel is top-rated for its phenomenal views, exceptional service, well-decorated rooms and on-site dining options. Check Rates for your stay!

Hostels on Isle of Skye

Travelers looking for budget places to stay on Isle of Skye should consider one of the hostels in Portree.

Portree Youth Hostel

Offering affordable bunk beds in dorm rooms, as well as private rooms with ensuite bathrooms, Portree Youth Hostel is a top choice for budget-conscious travelers. The hostel offers a communal kitchen, too. Check availability!

Glamping on Isle of Skye

Looking for a remote-but-not-so-rustic place to stay on Isle of Skye, Scotland? Glamping pods on Skye might be just what you’re looking for! Wigwam Holidays offers pods in several locations across the island.

Camping on Isle of Skye

There are several campgrounds on Isle of Skye – and wild camping is also permitted.

Vacation Apartments on Isle of Skye

We think renting a holiday apartment is a good choice for travelers staying on Isle of Skye longer than just a few days. During our weeklong trip, we stayed in a wonderful studio apartment. The Portree Garden Room is located a short walk from the center of town and features a small kitchenette. Check availability for your stay!

We recommend using both Airbnb and Booking to find holiday apartments for your Scotland trip.

What To Pack for your Isle of Skye Vacation

Tips on What To Pack for your Isle of Skye Vacation, Scotland

Our final travel tips are all about what to pack in your suitcase or backpack . You can find more on our dedicated Travel Packing Tips page. Need a Packing Checklist? Get your FREE Packing Checklist here !

Comfortable and Sturdy Shoes

The majority of activities on Isle of Skye are outdoors – and most require some trail walking. It is essential to pack the right shoes for your trip! For light trekking, everyday sneakers or trail shoes might suffice, but for taking longer hikes, we recommend packing a good pair of hiking boots .

Find more tips and reviews in our article, The Best Shoes for Travel .

Scotland Weather Gear

The Isle of Skye best places to visit are amongst nature – so travelers need to consider the weather when packing for Scotland. Unfortunately, Isle of Skye weather is highly unpredictable – and it can change in a hurry. Therefore, it is best to be prepared for whatever might come your way.  

We recommend packing a lightweight raincoat that is both wind- and waterproof. As the summers can still be cool, a fleece jacket might also be a good idea.

On warm and still days in the Highlands, pesky midges can be a big problem. Pack an insect repellent with picaridin to keep the midges, mosquitoes and ticks away.

Travel Camera

The Isle of Skye top sights are simply gorgeous – and you will want to use a real camera to properly capture the beauty around you.

We use a Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens . Not only does it take top quality photos and is easy to use, but it is well-priced, making it one of the most affordable DSLR cameras for travelers .

Zippered Day Pack

When sightseeing on Isle of Skye, it is ideal to carry a zippered day bag to stow your everyday travel items . We like to wear small backpacks that are big enough for our raincoats, insect repellent, wallets, phones and keys.

Get more ideas in our article, Best Day Packs for Travelers .

UK Travel Insurance

Regardless of how much planning you do, sometimes travel goes wrong – and when it does, travel insurance might help recoup some of the costs incurred. Trip insurance may cover things, like canceled flights and lost luggage – and even getting sick abroad . Check rates and coverage at World Nomads .

Scotland Trip Documents

Don’t forget to pack your travel documents – like your passport, plane tickets and Travel Planner . We keep all of our important trip documents zipped up in a Travel Organizer to be sure nothing gets left behind.

We Want To Know: What are your tips for the best things to do on Skye? Do you have any advice for fellow travelers? Share with us in the comments!

Start planning your trip to the UK ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

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Isle of Skye | West Coast Scotland

The Isle of Skye

IsleofSkye.com: the ultimate guide to the Isle of Skye in the Highlands of Scotland. Helping visitors find some where to stay from our large selection of Accommodation , we have listings for Bed and Breakfast , Self-Catering Cottages , Campsites and Hotels .

Our Skye Guide has an expanding collection of Activities and Attractions . If you would like a walking guide, boat trip or an arts or craft gallery you will find it here.

Skye is one of the top locations in Scotland to visit. It is famous for its scenery and landscapes that will take your breath away.

The Island of Skye is 50 miles long and the largest of the Inner Hebrides. The capital is Portree . Villages in the north of the Island include Dunvegan , Edinbane , Uig and Staffin . Notable villages in the south of Skye include Broadford , Armadale , Carbost , Elgol and Kyleakin .

The Island has a rich History covering many topics, such as: dinosaur fossils, clan warfare, Highland Clearances and the infamous Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite Rebellion. Both Clan MacDonald and Clan MacLeod have their Clan castles on the Island and should be on your list of places to visit.

The Isle of Skye is also a great destination for Wildlife watching with the white tailed sea eagle at the top of bird watchers lists. Otters, seals, whales, dolphins and red deer are just some of the other impressive creatures that can be seen on and around the Isle of Skye.

Skye is a world class destination for walkers and climbers. The Cuillin Range and The Trotternish Ridge offer challenging climbs and interesting scrambles. The Cuillin Range offers 12 Munros - peaks above 3000ft (914m). There are many great walks on Skye to be enjoyed by the less experienced, check both our Top Ten Skye Walks and Island Walks for detailed route guides.

Browse our listings to plan your stay on the Isle of Skye in Scotland.

Skeabost Country House Hotel on the Isle of Skye.

Skeabost House Hotel

An iconic white washed, victorian mansion overlooking Loch Snizort, 10 minutes from Portree.

With 21 modern bedrooms, cosy lounges with open fires and wood panelling, Skeabost is historic and elegant. The West Pier Restaurant serves the best of Island cuisine and after dinner watch the sunset over the Loch from our patio, or relax by the fire with a local malt. Our Ghillie also offers Salmon fishing experiences on the River Snizort.

More Information

Visiting Isle of Skye, Scotland: An Enchanting Island Gem

The Isle of Skye is one of the most beautiful destinations on Earth. Located off the coast of Scotland, this island is one of the Outer Hebrides and is 50 miles (80 km long). 

Famous for its scenic beaches, rugged landscapes, and historic castles, the Isle of Skye has so much to offer. It’s also a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers, as endless wildlife-watching opportunities exist here.

To reach the Isle of Skye, cross the Skye Bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh or take the ferry from Mallaig. As the island is in the Scottish Highlands , you’ll need to fly into Scotland first, to Aberdeen, Edinburgh , or Glasgow. 

The Best Time to Visit the Isle of Skye, Scotland

Isle of Skye, Scotland

However, the Isle of Skye can get very crowded since school is out during this time. This can be a problem, especially as many roads are single-lane and narrow.

May, June, and September are better times to visit, as they’re much quieter. Temperatures are still pleasant this time of year, and the island is far less crowded. 

Things to Do on the Isle of Skye, Scotland

Isle of Skye, Scotland

The Old Man of Storr

The Old Man of Storr in Isle of Skye, Scotland

Visit Portree, the Capital

Portree in Isle of Skye, Scotland

The town’s location is beautiful, as lush green hills, the Sound of Raasay, and Loch Portree surround the town. If you have a car, you’ll also have easy access to some of the island’s main attractions.

Take a Sound of Raasay Boat Trip

Sound of Raasay in Isle of Skye, Scotland

If you’re lucky, you can spot seals, dolphins, eagles, whales, and other marine life, including orcas. There are a couple of companies to choose from once you get down to the harbor, or you can book a tour online.

Drive the Quiraing Pass

Quiraing Pass in Isle of Skye, Scotland

However, this road is only suitable for confident drivers due to its one-lane road and narrow passing places. Make sure to drive it on a clear day, too, so you can appreciate the views and the road surface isn’t wet. 

Once you get to the top, there’s a viewpoint where you can park. 

Views from Neist Point

Neist Point in Isle of Skye, Scotland

The walk down to the lighthouse takes around 45 minutes, or you can admire the views near the parking lot. If you’re lucky, you might be able to spot marine life here, with basking sharks and whales known to make an appearance off the coast. 

Relax at The Fairy Pools

Fairy Pools in Isle of Skye, Scotland

You have to pay for parking, but other than that, the site is free to visit. It’s a 15-20 minute walk to reach the first set of pools. If you’re brave enough, you can jump in for a swim, but be careful, as the waters can be frigid.

Restaurants on the Isle of Skye, Scotland

seafood platter

The Old School Restaurant  is one of the best places on the island to sample local produce. It’s located in Dunvegan and offers a fantastic dining experience, complete with a pre-dinner room, open fireplaces, and a varied menu. The menu highlights include the beer-battered haddock, langoustine, and sticky toffee pudding.

The Oyster Shed is a perfect choice if you’re a seafood lover. It’s found in the small village of Carbost, and the menu changes daily depending on the catch. Popular options at this eatery include oysters, lobster, smoked salmon, mussels, and crab. There’s even a seafood platter if you’re after a bit of everything. 

The Stein Inn is the oldest pub on the Isle of Skye, dating back to 1790. It’s located on the shores of Lochbay, so it offers stunning views of the Outer Hebrides. Here, you can try a variety of Skye-inspired dishes, including shellfish and over 120 Scottish whiskies. It’s also possible to stay overnight in a sea-view room.

You’ll find Cafe Sia & Siaway in the town of Broadford. A highlight of this place has to be its wood-fired pizzas, which are also available for takeaway. The ice cream milkshakes are another delight, as well as the real-fruit smoothies. Of course, there are plenty of other tasty dishes on offer too. 

Another popular spot in Broadford is Deli Gata , known for its charming setting, signature sandwiches, cream cheese bagels, and soups. Many tasty sweet treats are available, including scones, coffee and walnut cake, lemon drizzle, and chocolate orange cake. So much to choose from! 

Day Trip: Fort Augustus + Loch Ness (1.5 Hours)

Fort Augustus and Loch Ness Lake in Scotland

Fort Augustus is also found on the Southern tip of Loch Ness, one of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions. This colossal freshwater loch is famous for being home to the Loch Ness Monster, with daily boat trips around the lake. 

If you don’t mind driving further, Drumnadrochit is just 30 minutes away. Here, you’ll find the Loch Ness Centre, a popular tourist attraction, which will take you through the loch’s history and mysteries. 

Day Trip: Fort William (2 Hours)

Fort William in Scotland

Thanks to its location on the shores of Loch Linnhe, Fort William is incredibly scenic. There are also many things to do, such as visiting the West Highland Museum, taking a tour of Ben Nevis Distillery, or picking up a souvenir from Treasures of the Earth.

However, Fort William is most popular with hikers as there are some fantastic trails in this area, including one that leads to Steall Falls.

Day Trip: Glenfinnan Viaduct (2 Hours)

Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland

You can see the famous Jacobite Steam Train (aka Hogwarts Express) go over the bridge if you time your visit right. You’ll need to research the train times in advance and then get to the viewpoint before it crosses. 

Just be aware that this area can get very crowded during the peak summer season, as everyone comes to see the train. Try to avoid visiting on a weekend. 

Visiting the Isle of Skye, Scotland

Castle Ewen Mountain in Isle of Skye, Scotland

We're Jack and Abbie, a travel-mad couple who live in the United Kingdom. Both of us are passionate about the outdoors and love to centre our adventures around wildlife and nature. We also travel on a budget wherever we can and are ticking off our bucket list one destination at a time!

isle of skye scotland tourist attractions

Guide for Exploring Scotland’s Isle of Skye

I f you’re looking for an incredible Scottish adventure, Scotland’s Isle of Skye is the perfect destination. It’s one of the most beautiful places in all of Scotland! Isle of Skye is filled with breath taking landscapes and places to explore. After you visit, you’ll understand why it’s one of the most visited places in all of Scotland!

Let this guide be your roadmap to an unforgettable trip to Scotland. Keep reading for all the detail about visiting Scotland’s Isle of Skye!

Best time to visit Scotland’s Isle of Skye

  • How to get to Isle of Skye
  • Must See Places on Isle of Skye
  • Our Ultimate Scotland Road Trip Youtube Video

Ultimate Guide to Scotland’s Isle of Skye…

The best time to visit Isle of Skye is from May to September. The weather tends to be a little warmer and more enjoyable. July and August tend to be peak season making it the busiest time to visit! But no matter what time of year you visit, expect rain! Scotland is known for its moody and rainy weather. That’s part of the charm though!

We visited during off season in April and we loved it. The weather was a little chilly and gloomy but that’s what we expected. The crowds we also very minimal!

Wondering how long you need to explore? We would recommend spending at least 3 full days on Isle of Skye! There is so many places to explore and not all of the destinations are right next to each other. You could easily spend a full week here!

How to get to Scotland’s Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is about a 5 hour drive north west of Edinburgh. Scotland is one of those places you enjoy the journey to the destination as much as the destination itself! Below are the best ways to get to Scotland’s Isle of Skye.

In our opinion, this is the best way to get to Isle of Skye. Driving gives you the most freedom and flexibility. You can get to the different locations before the crowds or stay longer to enjoy sunset. Plus, there are so many incredible places to stop by on your way to Isle of Skye! Such as Glencoe, Glenfinnan Viaduct [for all our Harry Potter Fans], the iconic Eilean Donan Castle , and so much more!

If you don’t want to drive yourself, since they do drive on the opposite side of the road, you can book a tour to Isle of Skye. There are great options from Edinburgh, Inverness, and even Portree [see below]. Of course, the downside to this option is you will arrive to every destination with everyone else on the tour bus and your schedule will be a little more strict.

By Public Bus

While you can get to Isle of Skye but public bus, we do not recommend it. There is no direct bus route from Edinburgh. You’ll need to get to Inverness or Glasgow. From there, you’ll take the Scottish Citylink coach service to Portree. This journey can take anywhere from 8 to 13 hours.

Once on Skye, you can take Stagecoach to get around the Isle. The DayRider bus pass makes the most sense if you plan to go to different locations in one day. It offers unlimited travel for one da.

If you do choose to take a public bus to Isle of Skye, we recommend staying in Portree. That way you’ll be able to walk to restaurants or even hire tours from there to explore more. Portree is not very large but it is the biggest town in Isle of Skye!

If you are coming from another city in Scotland, you can fly directly to the Isle of Benbecula Airport (BEB). It’s a very small airport located on the island of Benbecula in the Outer Hebrides, off the West Coast of Scotland. It’s the closest airport since there is no airport on the Isle of Skye. From there it’s about a 3 hour drive so you’ll have to hire a very expensive taxi or rent a car. Since this option is quite complicated and can be a lot more costly, we don’t recommend getting to Isle of Skye by plane.

If you are flying from another country, you’ll still have to connect through one of the larger Scotland airports. So we recommend just taking one of the other transportation options to get to Skye!

Keep in mind, once you get to Skye, you’ll still need to hire taxis [no Uber], take public buses, or hire a tour company to take you around Isle of Skye.

Want to experience our Scotland adventure with us? Watch our Youtube video below all our our Ultimate Scotland Roadtrip !

Must see places on scotland’s isle of skye.

Isle of Skye is filled with so many beautiful and diverse landscapes, you’ll have a hard time choosing which places to visit first! From beautiful waterfalls to rolling green cliffside’s to medieval castles. Scotland’s Isle of Skye is one of the best places to visit in all of Scotland!

The Quiraing – Scotland’s Isle of Skye

The Quiraing is a landslip on the eastern face of Meall na Suiramach, the northernmost summit of the Trotternish on Isle of Skye. Looking at this landscape makes you feel like you’ve been transported back in time. Be sure to get here early in the morning to avoid summer crowds!

While you can take in the stunning views a few minute walk from the car park. Most people choose to do the 4.25 mile [6.8km] hiking loop. The entire loop can take anywhere from 2-4 hours depending on how quickly you walk or how many times you stop for photos. Be sure to wear sturdy boots, as it can often be muddy, and stay on the proper walking trail.

Weather can change quickly in Scotland so always be prepared for rain, mist, fog, or wind. The trail is along a cliffside so use your judgment to decide when the conditions may not be safe. Click here  to read more about the hiking/walking terrain and what you should expect during your visit.

Parking: Small, paved parking lot [or car park as they say in Scotland] right at the start of the Quiraing trail loop. It’s a self-pay meter parking. During our visit we paid only £3 for 3 hours!

Toilets: Please note that as of April 2022 there are no bathroom facilities at the Quiraing. I would highly recommend stopping in Portree before making the drive up!

Old Man of Storr

Old Man of Storr is located on the north of Skye in the area known as ‘Trotternish’, about 15 minutes from Portree. It’s one of the most famous and busiest spots in Isle of Skye. We recommend visiting at sunrise or sunset to avoid crowds and see it at the best time of day!

Please note that this does require a hike to get to. It is about a 2.5 miles [3.8km] hike to get to the top of Old Man of Storr and takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to get all the way to the top viewpoint with no stops. The trail is straight up [and then straight back down] so I would budget it taking around 1.5 – 2 hours with stops for breaks. Around 4 to 5 hours total to hike, explore, take photos. Similar to many other hiking trails in Scotland, the trail can get very muddy.

We would recommend keeping right when the trail splits as you hike up. It’s the quickest/shortest way up to the Old Man of Storr.  Click here  to read more about the hiking/walking terrain and what you should expect during your visit.

Parking: Large paved parking lot at the base of the trail with a self-pay parking meter [a few pounds per hour]. 

Toilets: Nice bathroom facilities in the parking lot but you do have to pay 50p to use.

Dunvegan Castle

Dunvegan Castle and Gardens is at the heart of the 42000 acre MacLeod Estate on Isle of Skye. Dunvegan is said to be “one the greatest Hebridean castles and the only Highland fortress to have been continuously occupied by the same family for 800 years”.

This castle was one of the only castles we visited that’s interior is well maintained, rather than in ruins. The grounds are quite large so you could easily spend 2 to 3 hours exploring it all.

While you can book your tickets online in advance, there’s not a huge need to. You can easily purchase tickets upon your arrival. If you do not wish to go inside the castle, you can purchase tickets for the Castle Gardens only. The Gardens are beautiful so make sure you have enough time to walk around and admire their beauty!

Please note Dunvegan Castle and Gardens are only open from April 1 to October 15th.

If you want to visit mores castles in Scotland, read our blog – 7 Must Visit Castles in Scotland !

Parking: Free paved parking lot across the street from the entrance to the Castle.

Toilets: Free bathroom facilities in the parking lot and within the Castle & Garden grounds.

Neist Point Lighthouse

Neist Point Lighthouse is located on Neist Point on the Isle of Skye. It’s one of the most famous lighthouses in all of Scotland.

You can walk down a 1.4 mile [2.2km] paved path down to the lighthouse. It looks shorter than it is, but the walk takes around 45 minutes without stops. We’d recommend budgeting 2.5 to 3 hours total for the walk and to enjoy the lighthouse once you walk down.

If you don’t want to walk down to the lighthouse, you can enjoy it from the cliffside. If you keep walking right along the ridge, you’ll find lots of rocks and areas to sit and enjoy the view. It’s the perfect place to end your day and watch the sunset!

Parking: Free, small parking lot and does fill up quickly. Further back along the road there are more spaces along the road.

Toilets: No restrooms

Fairy Pools

The Fairy Pools are at the foot of the Black Cuillins near Glenbrittle on the western part of Isle of Skye. The walk to the Fairy Pools is around 1.5 miles [2.4km] and takes about 2-3 hours round trip depending on your walking pace and how many times you stop to take photos.

You will see beautiful waterfalls all along the path.During the warmer months, people actually do swim in the water!  Click here  to read more about the hiking/walking terrain and what you should expect during your visit.

Parking: paid Forestry Commision gravel parking lot on the road opposite of the trail leading to the Fairy Pools. There’s a sign that says “‘Glumagan Na Sithichean” with “Fairy Pools” underneath it, pull in there! When we visited there was an attendant explaining where to park, how to pay [self-pay meters], and how to start the trail. It was £6 for the entire day as of April 2022.

Toilets: Nice, free bathroom facility to use in the parking lot.

Fairy Glen is located in the hills above the village of Uig on the Isle of Skye. This unique landscape was also created by a landslip. The name comes from an old folklore tail that said fairies created and hide within this landscape.

While it is a smaller area, there is a lot to walk around and explore. There’s a 1 mile [1.6km] loop that can take 45 minutes to an hour to walk and enjoy for the sites. Castle Ewen is one of the most famous landmarks and photo spots and the Fairy Glen!

Parking: Pay and display parking lot

Toilets: Free bathrooms located off Fairy Glen Road.

Portree  – Scotland’s Isle of Skye

Portree is the largest town and capital of Isle of Skye. It’s a cute little coastal port village. This is where you’ll find the public buses, restaurants, shops, and grocery stores. Portree is a great home base to stay and explore all of Isle of Skye!

Please keep in mind that since it is a smaller town, many places stop serving food between 8:00 and 9:00pm. During our visit, the sunset around 10:00pm so we were out exploring until then so everywhere was closed afterwards. Either eat before sunset [if you plan to enjoy that out in nature] or stock up groceries to cook at your Airbnb once you head in for the night!

Duntulm Castle

Duntulm Castle once was a stronghold by the Macdonalds on a beautiful cliffside. What’s left of it is ruins and crumbling stones. It’s not much of a castle anymore!

It’s a quick stop on the road to walk out to the ruins and enjoy the views for a few minutes. But we wouldn’t recommend going out of your way to see this “castle”! For your safety, do not climb or walk around on the ruins. They are very unstable and have been eroding into the ocean.

Please note, once you pull over, you do have to walk through a gate and dirt path between farmers fields. It very much feels like you’re trespassing on private property, but you’re not!

Parking: Very small pull out on the side of the road [free]

Toilets: No bathroom facilities

Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls views are just a short few steps from the parking lot. Since it is more of a viewpoint from one area, you may need to wait your turn to get a photo or get a better view point.

This is a quick stop on your way to other sites on Isle of Skye. You won’t need more than 10 or 15 minutes here!

Parking: Small, paved parking lot [free]

Visiting Edinburgh on your trip to Scotland? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Edinburgh, Scotland !

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Diageo’s distilleries most visited in scotland as numbers pass 1 million.

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Talisker distillery on the remote Isle of Skye is more than 5 hours from Glasgow, but has seen its ... [+] visitor numbers increase by over 200%

In 2018 Diageo announced a $190 million (£150 million) plan to invigorate whisky tourism across Scotland. Little did it know that 2019 would be the last normal year of tourism in Scotland until 2023.

Two years after the ambitious announcement and with the development and improvement across 11 sites underway, the Covid pandemic would hit. Visitor numbers in Scotland plummeted to levels not seen for decades. In 2020 just 95,400 visitors were recorded across all 67 distillery visitor centers in Scotland, compared to over 1.69 million in 2019.

Diageo’s total investment into tourism attractions across Scotland was $236 million (£185 million), including $108 million (£85 million) in their new Edinburgh based Johnnie Walker Experience that opened in 2021. This month Diageo’s published visitor numbers show that their investment has finally paid off as visitor numbers exceed pre-covid levels.

Diageo’s Investment In Whisky Tourism

In 2023 the total number of visitors to Diagoe’s 13 visitor centers exceeded 1 million for the first time. For the last complete year of data in 2019 the total visitor numbers across the full 67 distilleries and visitor centers in Scotland was around 1.69 million. This suggests that visitor numbers have not only returned to pre-covid levels. Looking at the performance of Diageo’s individual distilleries, it also appears that growth has resumed.

Unsurprisingly, the Edinburgh based Johnnie Walker Experience is by far Diageo’s biggest attraction. With 359,212 visitors in 2023 the Princess Street venue has seen triple the visitors of the most popular center in 2019, which was Arran/Lochranza with 115,000 visitors—meaning that the Edinburgh site is probably the most popular whisky attraction in Scotland. The success of the completely new site is impressive, but it is also the easiest to get to, and is likely to appeal to passing traffic who wouldn’t necessarily choose to go out of their way to visit a distillery.

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Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, island appeal for whisky lovers.

The still house at the Caol Ila whisky distillery on the Scottish island Islay with the Paps of Jura ... [+] in the background.

Ease of access isn’t everything with whisky fans though, as shown by Diageo’s second most popular distillery. Talisker distillery on the remote Isle of Skye is more than 5 hours from Glasgow, but has seen its visitor numbers increase by over 200% from 59,000 in 2019 to over 184,000 in 2023. It's a similar story for the Oban on the west coast, which despite being a hefty three hour drive from Edinburgh has jumped to position three in Diageo’s rankings, increasing visitors by 100,000 to 157,000.

Caol Ila on Islay is another remote island distillery that has benefited as part of the investment. In terms of Diageo’s total standings it still sits at position 11 of 13 but it has seen an impressive 171% increase in visitors compared to 2019—in line with the increases seen for the top three. That’s an impressive pilgrimage considering the 140 mile trip from Glashow to the Johnnie Walker experience at Caol Ila will still take you 5 hours.

Just The Start For Scotch Tourism

Katie Harris, managing Director of Diageo Scotland Brand Homes, said about the results: “We are incredibly proud to have welcomed more than a million people through our doors for the first time in Scotland, but we believe this is just the start and there is a powerful opportunity for further growth, with all the positive benefits that will bring to Scotland.”

The scotch whisky industry employs more than 41,000 people in Scotland, with a further 25,000 jobs across the rest of the UK indirectly supported by the industry. With more than 2 million visitors across all distilleries in 2022 the Scotch Whisky Association states that whisky is now the most popular tourist attraction in Scotland.

Scotch has a lot of potential, and visitor centers are a proven way of getting customers to engage with brands with long lasting benefits. From Michelin Star restaurants on site and rooftop bars, to more traditional fill your own bottles, distilleries continue to develop their visitor experiences and I can’t wait to see what comes next.

Mark Littler

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  1. 12 Best Things to Do on the Isle of Skye (+ Map & Photos)

    Fairy Glen | Best Things to Do in the Isle of Skye. 8. Talisker Distillery. Talisker Distillery is the only whisky distillery on the Isle of Skye. Take a tour, taste some whisky, and bring some home as a souvenir. Talisker Distillery | Best Things to Do in the Isle of Skye. 9.

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    2023. 5. Talisker Distillery. 2,249. Distilleries. Talisker is the oldest working distillery on the Isle of Skye and is set on the shores of Loch Harport with dramatic views of the Cuillins. Producing an alluring, sweet, full-bodied single malt that is so easy to enjoy, and like Skye itself, so hard to leave.

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    Visit Dunvegan Castle. A visit to Skye is incomplete without savouring the wealth of history offered by Dunvegan Castle and Gardens. Dunvegan is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and is the ancestral home to the Clan MacLeod. 6.

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    An island of epic landscapes, Skye is full of magical experiences just waiting to happen. There are so many places to visit in Skye, from spectacular natural scenery such as the Cuillin mountains, Kilt Rock and the Sleat peninsula, to cultural attractions including the Skye Museum of Island Life and Dunvegan Castle. 1.

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    2023. 7. Dunvegan Castle & Gardens. 3,227. Historic Sites. Any visit to the Isle of Skye is incomplete without enjoying the wealth of history and clan legend at 5* Dunvegan Castle & Gardens. Built on a rocky outcrop on the shores of Loch Dunvegan, Dunvegan is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and has been the ancestral home ...

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    2023. 5. Talisker Distillery. 2,248. Distilleries. Talisker is the oldest working distillery on the Isle of Skye and is set on the shores of Loch Harport with dramatic views of the Cuillins. Producing an alluring, sweet, full-bodied single malt that is so easy to enjoy, and like Skye itself, so hard to leave.

  10. Must-see attractions in Skye

    Dunvegan Castle. Skye. Skye's most famous historic building, and one of its most popular tourist attractions, Dunvegan Castle is the seat of the chief of Clan MacLeod.

  11. 25 Top Things to Do on the Isle of Skye, Scotland: Detailed Guide + Map

    The Isle of Skye is the most northerly and largest Island of the Inner Hebrides Islands. Situated on the west coast of Scotland, it belongs to the Highland Council area and is part of Inverness-shire county.. The capital of the Isle of Skye is Portree - the largest town and a busy tourist hub, famous for the pastel-coloured houses. After Portree, Broadford is the second-largest settlement on ...

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    The Skye Trail. For experienced hikers only. This hike takes 7 days and is 128 km in length, traversing a huge portion of the Isle of Skye. Walk Highlands is an excellent website with details for hiking trails not just on the Isle of Skye but throughout Scotland. Visit their website here.

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    Neist Point Lighthouse, perched on Skye's western tip, provides stunning sea and cliff views. 12. Explore the Hidden Gem of Isleornsay. Isleornsay, or Eilean Iarmain as it's known in Gaelic, is a picturesque village located on the southeast coast of the Isle of Skye.

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    21. Hike Brother's Point — One of the Best Isle of Skye Attractions. Brother's Point (AKA Rubha nam Brathairean in Gaelic) is a dramatic headland extending out to the Atlantic Ocean. Since the 2018 discovery of dinosaur tracks, this hike has become one of the most exciting and unique things to do on Isle of Skye.

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    Ferry. The Caledonian MacBrayne ferry (Mallaig to Skye) runs daily from the port of Mallaig in the west Highlands to Armadale in Sleat on the south of Skye. You can get to Mallaig by road or train. Plan your trip on the CalMac website. The privately-operated Glenelg ferry connects Glenelg on the mainland with Kylerhea on Skye.

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    A dazzling, multi-tiered waterfall, Lealt Falls is one of the beautiful things to see in Skye, Scotland. The River Lealt tumbles down a deep and rocky gorge, dropping a total of 300 feet before joining the Sound of Raasay. A wooden viewing platform extends over the gorge, offering fine views of the Upper Falls.

  18. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Isle of Skye

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