Crossing over to the Isle of Skye is like entering a world shaped by wind, water, and legend. Dramatic cliffs plunge into the sea, mist rolls over jagged peaks, and every turn reveals a view more breathtaking than the last. This is Scotland at its most wild and untamed. Here are the best things to see and do on the Isle of Skye.
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The Scenic Route
No matter how you travel to the Isle of Skye, the journey there will be amazing. You can access the island three basic ways – by air, by land, or by sea. Flights are a bit pricey and you miss the journey, which is half the fun. And flying really doesn’t save you all the much time once you consider pre-arrival and layover times.
If driving you can still approach by water using the Glenelg Ferry. This offers by far the most stunning scenery and fabulous opportunities to spot wildlife. The ferry crosses the Kylerhea Narrows at the original crossing point between Skye and the Mainland.
The fastest and easiest crossing is via the free Skye Bridge. The crossing is still pretty spectacular and is hassle free. For the best of both worlds, perhaps take the ferry one way and the Skye Bridge the other!
Eilean Donan Castle
Your journey through the Isle of Skye actually begins before you cross the Skye Bridge. Depending upon your starting location, there are several sites worth seeing as you travel through the Highlands. But no matter where you travel from, you absolutely must take time to stop at the Eilean Donan Castle. Perched on a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet, this 13th century castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Scottish history.
It is also one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks and photo ops. So be sure to take advantage of this insta-worthy moment!
Portree
Once on the island, head toward the colorful harbor town of Portree. Pastel buildings line the waterfront and set the tone for your stay. But most importantly, this is a great hub from which to explore the island’s rugged beauty. If you are lucky enough to be there on a Tuesday evening in the summer, you can catch the Skye Pipe Band in action. The bagpipes are iconic Scotland! Also, be sure to grab some fish and chips at the Portree Pier!
Trotternish Loop
Journey along the Trotternish Loop for views of the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, Mealt Falls, and Quiraing. This is a beautiful drive, even if you never leave the car. But those up for a short walk – or a long hike – are in for a real treat!
Old Man of Storr
Check out this 55-meter high pinnacle of basalt rock that was formed by a volcanic plug. You can totally see the Old Man of Storr from the car, but you might want to check out Scotland’s most famous walk. Hike the 3.8 km trail to get up close and take in sweeping views over the Sound of Raasay. The walk is classified as average for difficulty and takes about an hour and 15 minutes if you don’t stop along the way.
Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls
Continue north to the dramatic cliffs of Kilt Rock. Notice how the multicolored cliff face of hexagonal columns looks a bit like tartan. These iconic cliffs were once used as a navigational aid for sailors. Be sure to check out Mealt Falls, located near the lookout point. The water cascades 60 meters down right into the sea.
Quiraing
Then head to Quiraing, a surreal landscape of landslips and pinnacles that offers one of the most scenic hikes in Scotland. It covers just under 7 km and takes about 2 hours without stops. But you will want to stop, simply to take in the beauty of the area. The hike is classified as medium in difficulty so be sure you are up for the task as it is a loop that returns you to the carpark where you start it.
Fairy Glen
Make time to wander the hillocks of Fairy Glen. This whimsical area of grassy mounds and stone circles feels straight out of folklore. The ridges in the terrain are said to be made by the Skye fairies frolicking about. So, keep your eyes peeled as not all Scottish fairies are good! This area is like a mini-Quiraing and is a great alternative if you are looking for a shorter and easier walk at just 1.5 km.
Dunvegan Castle
Explore the island’s rich history at Dunvegan Castle, the ancestral home of Clan MacLeod. This is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. Enjoy a tour of the castle and take a boat trip to the local seal colony.
Fairy Bridge
For a truly magical experience, check out The Fairy Bridge. It is said that the clan chief of Clan MacLeod and his fairy princess wife parted ways at this bridge. She belonged to the Seelie Court and could only live with him a year and a day, but she had a son in that time and wrapped him in a silken shawl. As she left, she told the chief he could use this as a flag to protect the clan up to three times. And apparently it worked as the Fairy Flag is revered by the clan and hangs in nearby Dunvegan Castle to this day!
Coral Beach
Unwind with a coastal walk down Coral Beach, known for its striking white sands made from crushed coral. This is a great place for a picnic or a swim! The beach is just a 10-minute drive from Dunvegan Castle.
Neist Point Lighthouse
The Neist Point Lighthouse is one of the most photogenic spots on the island. Located at the most westerly point of the Isle of Sky, near Glendale, it is especially stunning at sunset when the cliffs glow golden. While the walk down to the lighthouse is a bit steep, the walk down is a relatively easy one. It takes about 45-minutes round-trip without stopping.
Cuillin Mountains
Adventure seekers should venture into the Cuillin Mountains, two rugged ranges that offer challenging hikes and unforgettable views. The Black Cuillan is the UK’s most challenging mountain range, but the Red Cuillan is popular with hillwalkers.
Sligachan
If you prefer a gentler pace, explore the Cuillin Mountains on a scenic drive to Glen Sligachan and stop at the historic stone bridge for photos of the surrounding peaks.
Fairy Pools
There are reportedly fairies all over the Isle of Skye! Visit the enchanting Fairy Pools, where crystal-clear waters flow through a series of waterfalls at the foot of the Cuillin Mountains. Brave visitors can even take a dip in the chilly waters. The walk to the first waterfall is about 2.4 km round-trip. And it is only up from there.
Skye Whisky
If whisky is your thing, then visit one (or both) of the two distilleries on the Isle of Skye. The Talisker Distillery is the oldest working distillery on the island. Check out their most-famous Talisker Single Malt Scotch Whisky at the visitors Center. You can take a full distillery tour at the Torabhaig Distillery.
Elgol
Take time to explore the village of Elgol when on the Isle of Skye. Wildlife lovers can take a boat trip from Elgol to spot seals, dolphins, and even whales, all while enjoying views back toward the Cuillin range. Elgol is famous for two caves of historical significance. One of which was the final hiding place of Bonnie Prince Charlie when he went “over the sea to Skye” after the last Jacobite uprising.
Armadale Castle
Can’t get enough castle ruins? Explore the quiet beauty of Armadale Castle and its surrounding gardens. Also check out the Museum of the Isles to learn more Clan MacDonald, who called Armadale home. Don’t miss the view of crystal blue waters while you are there.
Lealt Falls
Check out Lealt Falls, where water descends 90 meters down a narrow gorge into the Sound of Raasay. There is a great viewing platform near the car park that will give you a fabulous view of the upper falls. There is a steep climb to reach the beach and there is a great plunge pool at the base of the lower falls if you can handle the cold water.
Dining & Lodging on the Isle of Skye
When near Dunvegan, you should totally check out the famous Three Chimneys Restaurant. But also round out your visit with a stop along Quay St in Portree for fresh seafood and local flavors. Personally, I don’t think anything beats an order of fish and chips while watching the ever-changing sky over the island.
There are several great places to stay on the Isle of Skye. I like the Marmalade Hotel in Portree. This is a very nice hotel with wonderful rooms and a great breakfast. If you stay there, ask for a room on the main floor when you book. The rooms are spread throughout several floors and there isn’t an elevator.
Transportation on the Isle of Skye
Consider a driver/guide for this journey, but self-driving with a rental car is also a possibility and much more affordable. If you do rent a car, consider this audio tour that covers 50 top locations on the Isle of Skye. There is also bus service to connect the major hubs on the island. But you really need a car to see it all.
If you are rushed for time, then consider a guided day trip to the Isle of Skye. You won’t be able to do everything on this list, but you will get a good overview of the island and a glimpse is better than nothing! Check out this one-day tour from Inverness. Better yet, try out this 2-day tour from Inverness.
Traveling from Edinburgh? No problem. There are 3-day tours from Edinburgh that cover the Isle of Skye and other parts of the Highlands. This 3-day tour from Glasgow is also a great option.
Hiking on the Isle of Skye
There are hundreds of opportunities to strap on your hiking boots and set out to explore the Isle of Skye on foot. Walks vary in length, terrain, and difficulty. Check out this great guide to Skye walks! Whether you are looking for a one hour easy walk, or an all-day strenuous hike, the Isle of Skye is the place to be. Island walks are really one of the best ways to fully explore the area.
What do you want to see and do on the Isle of Skye?
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