Jul 12, 2023

The list: Isle of Skye, Scotland–10 Must-See Attractions and Activities

Nestled off the west coast of mainland Scotland, the Isle of Skye is a magical destination renowned for its rugged landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and ancient castles.

Neist Point Lighthouse,Isle of Skye. Photo by Massimiliano Morosinotto

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover, or a history buff, Skye offers a wealth of attractions and activities to captivate your senses. Here are ten must-see attractions on the Isle of Skye;

1. The Quiraing:

Located in the northern part of Skye, The Quiraing is a surreal and otherworldly landscape of jagged cliffs, deep gorges, and breathtaking vistas. Hike along the well-marked trail, taking in the panoramic views of the Trotternish Ridge.

2. Fairy Pools:

In the shadow of the Black Cuillin Mountains, the Fairy Pools are a series of crystal-clear, turquoise-hued pools connected by enchanting waterfalls. Take a dip in the refreshing waters or explore the surrounding scenic beauty.

3. Dunvegan Castle:

Home to the MacLeod clan for over 800 years, Dunvegan Castle is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. Explore its historic halls, stunning gardens, and learn about the fascinating legends and stories associated with the castle.

Website: www.dunvegancastle.com

4. Old Man of Storr:

One of Skye's most iconic landmarks, the Old Man of Storr is a towering rock formation set amidst the stunning Trotternish Ridge. Embark on a hike to witness this geological wonder and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

5. Talisker Distillery:

Whisky enthusiasts should take advantage of a visit to the Talisker Distillery, nestled on the shores of Loch Harport. Take a guided tour to learn about the whisky-making process and enjoy tasting their renowned single-malt Scotch whisky.

Website: www.malts.com/en-gb/distilleries/talisker/

6. Neist Point Lighthouse:

Perched on a dramatic cliff, the Neist Point Lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the open sea. Capture stunning sunset photographs or embark on a coastal hike to immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings fully.

7. Fairy Glen:

Step into a mythical realm at the Fairy Glen, a whimsical landscape of rolling green hills, cone-shaped mounds, and mysterious ponds. Enjoy a peaceful stroll, soak in the serene atmosphere, and let your imagination run wild in this enchanting setting.

8. Talisker Bay:

Unleash your inner explorer at Talisker Bay, a secluded beach with striking black volcanic sands, dramatic cliffs, and fascinating rock formations. Take a leisurely walk along the shoreline and breathe in the fresh sea air while admiring the natural beauty of the surroundings.

9. Armadale Castle and Gardens:

Immerse yourself in history and culture at Armadale Castle and Gardens, the former seat of the MacDonald Clan. Explore the castle ruins, stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, and visit the Museum of the Isles. Contact

Website: www.armadalecastle.com

10. Talisker Beach:

Discover tranquillity at Talisker Beach, a hidden gem between the mountains and the sea. With its pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and stunning views, this secluded beach offers a serene setting for a quiet picnic by the shore.

How to get here:

By ferry

Mallaig to Armadale Ferry: One of the most popular ferry routes, the Mallaig to Armadale crossing, takes you from the mainland to the southern tip of Skye. This ferry service is operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) and offers stunning views of Skye's landscapes. It is suitable for both foot passengers and vehicles. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.

Website: www.calmac.co.uk

Glenelg to Kylerhea Ferry: This seasonal ferry operates between April and October and is renowned as the last manually operated turntable ferry in Scotland. The 20 minutes crossing provides an opportunity to experience Skye's western coastline and the picturesque village of Glenelg.

Website: www.skyeferry.co.uk

By air

Inverness Airport, located in Inverness, is the closest airport to the Isle of Skye. After landing at Inverness, you have several transportation options to reach Skye, including car rental services, taxi transfers, or public transportation.

Website: www.hial.co.uk/inverness-airport/

Glasgow Airport is another viable option for reaching Skye. From Glasgow, you can travel to Skye by rental car or public transportation. Several bus companies operate services from Glasgow to Skye, offering comfortable and scenic journeys.

Website: www.glasgowairport.com

Where to stay

Several areas provide convenient access to hotels, restaurants, and pubs when seeking accommodation on the Isle of Skye, Scotland.

Portree

As the largest town on the Isle of Skye, Portree has wide range of amenities. You'll find numerous hotels, bed and breakfasts, and guesthouses catering to various budgets. Explore the picturesque harbor, admire the colorful buildings, and enjoy the town's lively atmosphere. Staying in Portree grants easy access to the central and northern attractions of the island.

Broadford

Situated in the southern part of Skye, Broadford offers a tranquil setting and convenient amenities. This small town provides a range of accommodations, including hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering options. Some establishments afford stunning views of the surrounding sea and mountains. Broadford is home to several restaurants, cafes, and pubs It serves as an ideal base for exploring the southern part of Skye, including attractions like the Fairy Pools and the Cuillin Mountains.

Dunvegan

Nestled on Skye's western side, Dunvegan is a charming village famed for its historic castle and captivating coastline. Accommodation options in Dunvegan consist of cozy bed and breakfasts and guesthouses, some offering breathtaking sea views. While dining options are relatively limited compared to larger towns, there is a few local restaurants and pubs Dunvegan is an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful and secluded stay, with convenient access to attractions like Dunvegan Castle and the Coral Beach.

Uig

Located in Skye's northern part, Uig is a picturesque village renowned for its ferry terminal and stunning natural surroundings. While Uig offers a more modest selection of accommodations compared to larger towns, it provides a tranquil setting and serves as an ideal base for exploring the northern part of the island. You'll find a few hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering cottages in the area. Uig also boasts a couple of restaurants and pubs.

When selecting your accommodation on the Isle of Skye, it's recommended to book in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.