Isle of Skye Scotland Travel Guide

Skye is magic. Don’t believe me? Ask the Old Man of Storr, the Fairy Pools, or the misty Black Cullen mountains. They will tell you. I just sat down to write this Isle of Skye Scotland Travel Guide and I am already itching to pack my bags and fly over myself. For research purposes, of course. Now do me a favor, think of the most beautiful images of Scotland you can and what comes to mind? Vibrant green landscapes, rugged castles, or quaint colorful fishing villages? Skye has all of them and much, much more. This little isle also has the UK’s Best Restaurant of the Year for 2018. I bet you didn’t expect that did you? Like I said, magic. 

Getting There & Around

It may not be the easiest place in Scotland to get to, but aren’t those some of the best places anyway? The isle is located in the upper northwest region of the country and is easily accessible by car or ferry. The Skye Bridge connects the mainland village of Kyle of Lochalsh to the village of Kyleakin on Skye and is free for drivers to cross. As for the ferry, there are three main ports, all operated by Calmac.

If you plan to explore around the island, car is the best option. Driving is not difficult and gives you the freedom to stop and get out whenever you please, which will be often.

If driving is not an option, the main public transportation system is run by Stagecoach. Although buses run daily, they aren’t nearly as frequent as in a major city. If you plan to go this route, it’s essential to plan your itinerary thoroughly in advance. Although it doesn’t offer the freedom a car would, it’s totally doable.

For detailed location info for everything in this post, refer to the map above!

Accommodations

Skye has a wide range of hotels to fit every type of taste and budget. Many of them are old country homes offering the ideal Scottish experience. For a great home base, stay in the centrally located town of Portree. It’s also the largest town on Skye, making it a great place to spend the evenings.

Durning my last visit to Skye I stayed at the House Over-By, the hotel next to the world famous Three Chimneys Restaurant (more on that later) and I seriously can’t recommend it enough. It is more on the contemporary side of styles, but completley charming none the less.

There are 6 suites in the hotel, each one with a view of the sea and a beautiful garden. It’s essential to wake up for the full Scottish breakfast served in the sun-soaked breakfast room. Enjoying the views of Loch Dunvegan in the early morning while sipping a hot cup of coffee are priceless. Of course, I managed to oversleep, but the staff still kept the kitchen open to make sure I had everything I wanted for breakfast. How nice is that? Although, I would have been happy just eating a bowl full of their house made raspberry jam.

Sight Seeing

The trickiest part of exploring Skye is getting to your destination. What I mean is, everything is so beautiful you are going to want to stop constantly and explore. Most of the attractions require some walking to fully appreciate, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.  Weather can also be unpredictable, as rain can come and go quickly. Bring a rain coat with a hood along just in case.

Old Man of Storr

Easily one of the most recognized images of Skye, these impressive rock formations were caused by an ancient landslide. Today, the area is one of the most popular hikes on the isle. The 3.8km route is straight up and back down (not a loop) and takes about 1.5 hours to complete. Difficulty level is classified as “medium.” Even if you are not up for a long hike, there are still great views from the carpark and the passing roadways.

Neist Point Light House

At the western tip of the isle stands one of Scotland’s most famous lighthouses. The 2.2km walk down from the carpark and back is a destination in itself.  Landscape photographers love this area for the incredible views and access to wildlife. It is possible to see whales, dolphins, porpoises and many types of seabirds along the shores. Not to mention the sheep. Like many places in Scotland there are plenty of sheep. Although I was particularly caught off guard by the crazy places they managed to climb to. Do sheep fly when we’re not looking? They must. Anyway, the walk back up is a bit steep and can be very windy, so take your time and enjoy the views.

Fairy Pools

What initially drove me to visit Skye was some beautiful photos I had seen of the Fairy Pools. A series of small waterfalls and ponds at the foot of the Black Cullen mountain range, their bright blue pristine waters are so clear that you can see the mossy stones on the bottom. Following the streams up, fed by the River Brittle, takes about 45 minutes. Some parts of the path require walking over slippery stones so be especially careful and wear proper shoes. No sandals here guys.

Fairy Glen

Fairy Glen is NOT the same as the Fairy Pools, nor are they in the same area. I made this mistake the first time and missed it. Fairy Glen is the cutest landscape of little hills, paths, and ponds. The best view is from Castle Ewan, which is not a castle at all. The only hill with a basalt rock formation on the top, it is said to look like the ruins of a little castle. There is a narrow path to the top, and involves some climbing, but the view is worth the trouble.  Although there are no specific legends about fairies tied to the glen, if there ARE fairies on Skye, this is defiantly where they live.  🙂

Castles

The two famous castles on Skye are Armadale Castle (Clan Donald) and Dunvegan Castle (Clan MacLeod). Although Armadale is now a historical sight, Dunvegan Castle is still inhabited by MacLeod Clan Chief. Both castles are uniquely stunning and not to be missed.

If ruins are more your thing, there are quite a few on the island including: Duntulm Castle, Castle Maol, Hugh’s Castle (Caisteal Uisdean), and Dunscaith Castle. 

Quiraing Walk

This is one of the most breathtaking walks on Skye, but let me warn you it is not for the faint of heart. The loop trail is 6.8km and not always easy. If you want to hike it (and you should) come prepared with plenty of water and good hiking shoes. If it’s a particularly rainy day, consider postponing. You will be rewarded by some of the best landscape views in Scotland.

Talisker Distillery

Talisker is the oldest single malt whisky distillery on Skye, dating back to 1830! Three different tours are offered, varying in length and depth of info. No matter which one you choose, make sure to book in advance as they fill up quickly. The basic tour is 45 minutes and ends with a taste of their award winning whisky.

Even if you are not a whisky drinker, visiting Talisker is a great history lesson in a beautiful setting. While you are there, stop for the makings of a perfect picnic lunch at The Oyster Shed, then make the 15 minute drive to Talisker Beach to eat and relax on the black and white sand.

Loch Coruisk

Up for a boat trip? Loch Coruisk (meaning Cauldron of Waters) lies in the Cullen mountains and is most easily accessed by boat from Elgol. Experienced hikers can make the 8 mile trek though the mountains, but for the majority of us a boat is the way to go. The 2 main boat tour companies are Bella Jane and Misty Isle Boat Trips and both offer different trip options. You can sit on the boat and enjoy the scenery or be dropped of to explore for a few hours.

Kilt Rock

Kilt Rock is a super easy stop, the view point is right off the carpark. No hikes this time! These massive basalt columns are said to look pleated like a kilt, and the color variations almost appear like nature’s version of tartan. Look closely, and you will see the Mealt Waterfall pouring right into the sea.

Explore Portree

I know there are so many things to see, but don’t rush away from Portree too fast. There are shops, restaurants and pretty streets to explore! Allow plenty of time to spend getting to know this adorable port city. Don’t miss the colorful houses along the harbor or stopping for a snack at Isle of Skye Baking Company.

Dining

For its size, Skye has an impressive amount of award winning restaurants. Most feature an array of the local fish and game found around the island. Menus change often, focusing on showcasing the best fresh and seasonal ingredients. A few of the most memorable choices include:

Kinloch Lodge, a former hunting lodge of Clan Macdonald has been turned into a world renowned hotel and restaurant. Claire Macdonald founded the kitchen, cooking to showcase the beautiful produce grown on the isle. It was awarded Skye’s first Michelin Star, along with many other accolades.

Try Stein Inn for classic Scottish dishes served in an 18th century inn (the oldest of Skye). They also have vegetarian options and an nice children’s menu.

Stop at Edinbane Inn for the perfect pub experience. It has all your favorites, but elevates them by using fresh, local ingredients. Menus change seasonally, but expect to find crispy fish and chips, Scottish lamb and poached salmon.

Saving my favorite for last, do not visit Skye without eating at The Three Chimneys. Right next door to the House Over-by, this former Michelin Star restaurant serves an incredible menu of imaginative Scottish dishes. I still dream about their fresh cod with woodland mushroom sauce and marmalade pudding in Drambuie cream. It currently holds the title of UK restaurant of the year, from the Good Food Guide.

Shopping

Most of the shops on Skye are located in Portree, but there are a few others around the isle worth noting.

• SkyeSkyns: Sheep skin rugs, throws, and accessories.
• Edinbane Pottery- Handmade ceramics and paintings.
• Hebridian Isles Trading Company- Yarn, fleece, apparel and accessories.
• Uig Pottery- Modern pottery and home decor.
• Skye Weavers- Hand woven blankets, scarves and clothing.
• Isle Of Skye Candle Company- Natural, soy candles in unique scents. Make sure to try the Heather & Wild Berries.

Now, Go!

I love this place so much it makes my cry. Is that cheesy? I don’t care. The beauty is unimaginable. The people treat you like family. The food is full of heart and the spirit of the isle. Make sure this little paradise is on your bucket list, and I promise you will fall in love with it’s magic too.