Skye is the island that sells the Highlands. The landscapes are extraordinary, from the Trotternish ridge and the Old Man of Storr to the Fairy Pools and the Cuillin mountains. The food scene punches well above its weight. And on a clear day the light is unlike anything on the mainland. I drive to Skye most weeks and it still catches me off guard.
The Trotternish ridge
The Old Man of Storr is the iconic rock pinnacle visible from the road on the east coast. The walk up takes about an hour and the views are stunning. The Quiraing at the north end of the ridge is a surreal landscape of cliffs, pinnacles and hidden plateaus. It is one of the most photographed places in Scotland. See our walks and hikes guide for detailed route descriptions of the Storr, Quiraing, Fairy Pools and other Skye walks.
Fairy Pools and the Cuillin
The Fairy Pools at Glen Brittle are a series of crystal-clear pools and waterfalls beneath the Cuillin mountains. Easy to reach on a short walk. The Cuillin ridge itself is serious mountaineering, but the views of it from below are equally impressive.
Portree
Skye's main town with the famous coloured harbour front. Good restaurants including Scorrybreac (modern Scottish, book ahead) and Dulse and Brose at the Bosville Hotel. The fish and chip shop on the harbour is a Skye institution.
Dunvegan Castle and Neist Point
Dunvegan Castle is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, seat of Clan MacLeod. The gardens and loch-side setting are beautiful. Neist Point lighthouse on the western tip is one of the most dramatic viewpoints on the island.
Food
The Three Chimneys near Dunvegan is one of the finest restaurants in Scotland. Kinloch Lodge on the Sleat peninsula delivers exceptional food in a beautiful lochside setting. See our full Skye guide for more food recommendations.
Getting to Skye and touring
The Skye Bridge connects the island to the mainland at Kyle of Lochalsh (free, no toll). From Inverness it is about two and a half hours. The Mallaig ferry to Armadale is another option, especially from Fort William. See our Skye tours from Inverness and chauffeur service.
Frequently asked questions
Can you do Skye in one day from Inverness?
You can see highlights in a long day (10-12 hours) but it is a lot of driving. Two to three days with an overnight on Skye gives a much better experience.
Is there a toll on the Skye Bridge?
No. The Skye Bridge has been free since 2004. You can also reach Skye by the Mallaig to Armadale ferry on the south of the island.
What is the best base on Skye?
Portree is the main town with the most restaurants and shops. Broadford is quieter and closer to the bridge. Sleat in the south is beautiful and home to Kinloch Lodge.
When is the best time to visit Skye?
May, June and September are ideal. July and August are warmest but busiest. The weather is unpredictable year round, so come prepared for everything.
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