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The Isle of Skye feels like a place out of a dream, and has become a must-see destination for adventurers and wanderers alike. Whether you're planning to hike up a mountain, wander through ancient sites, or savour a local whisky by the fire, Skye offers a mix of natural beauty and rich history that will captivate every traveller. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, the most scenic hikes, delicious spots to eat and drink, and where to stay so you can make the most of your time on this unforgettable island.
The journey to the Isle of Skye may be one of Scotland’s most scenic landscapes out there! For those with a car, the drive takes around 5 hours from both Edinburgh and Glasgow. The route offers views of mountains, lochs and stunning villages along the way.
If you prefer not to drive, public transport is a good option too. You can catch a train from Edinburgh or Glasgow to Inverness, which takes around 3.5 hours, then transfer to a bus heading to Skye. Alternatively, direct buses run from Edinburgh to Broadford on Skye, though the journey will take a bit longer, around 6 hours.
If you’re visiting from further south, you can take a short flight (or a long train!) from London to Inverness and make your way up to Skye via the bus. Whichever option you choose, the journey itself is part of the adventure!
If you’re into hiking, Skye is absolutely the place for you - thanks to the pretty magical views throughout. Here are just a few of our favourites!
The Old Man of Storr hike is one of Skye’s most iconic adventures. This 4.5 km (2.8 miles) round trip takes you through lush moorland and up a steep climb to reach the famous rock formation. While the trail is fairly short, the ascent can be a bit challenging, so we’d recommend wearing some good footwear. Along the way, you'll be treated to sweeping views of Skye’s dramatic landscape.
At the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Trotternish Peninsula and the towering Old Man himself—a striking rock spire. It’s a fantastic spot for photos and a perfect way to experience the wild beauty of the island. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just in for the views, this hike is a must!
The Quiraing hike is a must-do for anyone looking to experience the island’s dramatic landscapes. This trail takes you through a mix of towering cliffs, jagged rock formations, and lush green valleys. It’s about 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) long and offers some of the best views on the island. The hike itself isn’t too tough, but it does get a bit steep in places, so be ready for a good stretch of legwork.
One of the highlights of the Quiraing is the chance to see some of Skye’s most iconic landmarks up close, like the famous “Needle,” a slender rock spire that stands out against the skyline. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, the trail is doable and rewards you with breathtaking scenery around every bend.
The Neist Point hike is one of Skye’s most rewarding coastal walks, perfect for anyone who wants to soak in stunning views without breaking a sweat. The trail is just under 2 miles (3 kilometres) round trip, making it an easy yet scenic outing. The path takes you to the iconic Neist Point Lighthouse, perched on the edge of a cliff with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, you'll pass grassy hills, dramatic cliffs, and a chance to spot seals or puffins if you’re lucky!
While the hike itself is fairly short, the views are absolutely jaw-dropping. The cliffs here are steep and rugged, and the lighthouse at the end is a picture-perfect spot to take it all in. Whether you’re visiting for a peaceful walk or to get that classic Skye shot, Neist Point won’t disappoint. Just be sure to check the weather — it can get pretty windy out there!
The MacLeod's Maidens hike is a lesser-known gem on the Isle of Skye, perfect for those looking to explore a unique and quieter corner of the island. The hike takes you up to a series of dramatic peaks, known as the "Maidens". The trail itself is about 5 miles (8 kilometers) round trip, and while it’s a bit steeper than some other Skye hikes, it’s totally manageable for most walkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
As you ascend, you'll be treated to incredible views of the surrounding landscape, including Loch Leathan and the stunning cliffs of the northern part of the island. The summit offers a panorama that makes the climb worth every step, and the quiet, less-trodden path means you’ll often have the place all to yourself. MacLeod’s Maidens is a hike that’s sure to leave you with unforgettable memories!
A fantastic way to immerse yourself in the wildlife and breathtaking landscapes of Skye is by taking a boat trip! A tour departing from Portree along the coast and into the wilderness offers the chance to encounter incredible wildlife, including dolphins, seals, whales, and even sea eagles. With several tour operators on the island providing a range of options, it's the perfect opportunity to soak in the stunning scenery.
If you're craving more adventure on the open ocean and want something a bit more fast-paced, sea kayaking is the perfect option! Whether you're seeking a leisurely paddle along the coast or an exhilarating expedition venturing deeper into the island and its surrounding waters, there are plenty of choices to suit your style. From a couple of hours to multi-day adventures, Skye offers a variety of kayaking experiences for every level of adventurer!
Nestled on the dramatic Trotternish Peninsula, both Lealt Falls and Kilt Rock are stunning natural landmarks, offering visitors a glimpse of the island’s beauty.
Lealt Falls, located just off the A855 road near the village of Lealt, is a striking cascade that tumbles down a cliffside into a gorge, creating a spectacular sight, especially after rainfall. The falls are set within an area rich in geological history, with nearby cliffs showcasing some of the best examples of Skye’s iconic rock formations.
A short drive south, Kilt Rock is another breathtaking waterfall, named for its resemblance to a pleated kilt, which cascades down to the sea below. The falls are easily accessible and offer sweeping views of the coast, making them a popular spot for both photographers and nature lovers. While both falls have become staples of Skye’s outdoor attractions, they also provide a sense of peace and solitude in the wild landscape, perfect for those seeking a break from the more tourist-heavy spots on the island.
The Fairy Pools, located near Glenbrittle at the foot of the Black Cuillins, are one of the Isle of Skye's most enchanting natural wonders. These crystal-clear, turquoise pools are fed by the nearby River Brittle, cascading down from the mountains in a series of small waterfalls. The Fairy Pools are a popular destination for hikers, photographers, and those simply looking to experience the island’s mystical charm. The name comes from local legends, which suggest that fairies once bathed in the pools, adding to the area's magical atmosphere. Maybe pop in for a refreshing dip if you're feeling up for it!
Scots have a deep passion for whisky, and this is certainly evident across the Scottish Isles. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the island's culture is by visiting its whisky distilleries. The Scottish Isles are home to some of the finest whiskies in the world, and touring the distilleries is a delightful experience.
A standout is Talisker, the oldest working distillery on the Isle of Skye. Located on the Minginish Peninsula, with stunning views of the Cuillin Hills, Talisker produces a renowned single malt adored by whisky enthusiasts globally. Within the tour, you can enjoy a tasting experience that not only explores the history of Talisker, but also lets you savour its world-famous single malt.
Another distillery we recommend is perfect for a full-day excursion! The Isle of Raasay is easily accessible, just a short ferry ride from Skye. The Raasay Distillery offers tours and tasting experiences, allowing you to dive into the world of their single malt whisky and gins. You'll embark on a fascinating journey through the history of the distillery and much more!
A popular option amongst many visitors of Skye is The Oyster Shed. This rustic restaurant and take-away is a perfect stop-off point when driving somewhere such as Talisker Bay, or perhaps if you’ve worked up an appetite at the Fairy Pools. Located in the stunning Carbost, it serves fresh, locally caught seafood, a fantastic way to experience authentic seafood during your trip!
We know many visitors of the Isle of Skye have action-packed days, and a well-deserved break for a hot drink and some freshly baked treats should definitely be on the agenda! Lean To Coffee is a cosy yet airy café nestled in the quaint village of Ashaig. Open seasonally, it serves locally roasted coffee, organic baked goods, breakfast bowls, and a variety of other delicious options.
If you find yourself wandering the colourful harbour town of Portree in need of a little pause, Birch is a delightful stop to recharge. This stylish speciality coffee shop not only serves up excellent coffee and tempting baked goods, but they also roast their own beans on the Isle of Skye - perfect for picking up a bag to bring a taste of the island home with you. Whether you’re in the mood for a croissant or just a quiet corner to sit, Birch has you covered.
Sometimes, all you need is a cosy atmosphere and some comforting food, and the Isle of Skye has plenty of spots that offer just that. The Isles Inn, a charming hotel and restaurant in Portree, serves up traditional meals and hearty dinners at affordable prices. It's the perfect place to enjoy classic fish and chips, a refreshing pint, or simply relax by the fireplace with your drink of choice. During my visit over the Christmas period, I had the pleasure of trying the Cullen Skink—and if you haven't yet, I highly recommend giving it a try!
For a delightful fine dining experience on the island, Scorrybreac is a fantastic choice. Located above the harbour in Portree, this intimate and endearing restaurant and bar specializes in Scottish cuisine, highlighting local and seasonal ingredients in every dish. With a sharing menu, you’ll have the chance to sample a variety of delicious options—though sharing may be easier said than done!
Nestled at the foot of the Quiraing on the northern tip of the island, the Flodigarry Hotel offers a luxurious stay in the charming village of Staffin. The estate is surrounded by breathtaking views of the sea, with the rugged Torridon mountains visible in the distance. Steeped in history and brimming with character, the property features a beautifully preserved Victorian house, along with Flora MacDonald’s Cottage, which dates back to 1745. Guests can also indulge in exceptional cuisine, with dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, making dining here a memorable part of the experience.
Set in an elevated position overlooking Portree Bay, the Cuillin Hills Hotel offers a refined stay with stunning views of the harbor and the majestic Cuillin Mountains. This elegant hotel combines modern comforts with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect base for exploring the Isle of Skye. The rooms are thoughtfully designed, many featuring panoramic views of the bay or the surrounding hills. Guests can enjoy exceptional dining in the hotel's renowned restaurant, where locally sourced ingredients are expertly crafted into delicious dishes, providing a true taste of the island.
The wilderness and luxury don’t often go hand-in-hand, but at Black Box Cabin there is a perfect blend of a boutique accommodation experience and the great outdoors. This beautiful private cabin in Glendale sleeps up to 4 people, so whether you’re looking for a family trip or a romantic getaway, you’ll find that the cabin can cater to whatever your needs are. The open spaced interiors of the cabin are contemporary but still provide a cosy atmosphere with aspects such as a fire pit, outdoor bath and a mesmerising view of the Scottish countryside surrounding it.
Abhaig Boutique B&B is a wonderful couple-run B&B that offers either a room in the Main House or in their Black Bothy! Perfect for couples or a solo-traveller looking for some peace and tranquillity surrounded by beautiful views. This experience is also accompanied by excellent food, such as homemade bread, granola and, my personal favourite, traditional Scottish tablet. Based next to the beautiful village of Uig, you’ve got somewhere to discover whilst having your own little oasis nearby.
Set on Skye’s striking west coast, Harlosh Black H is a beautifully designed, architect-led cabin offering a luxurious and secluded escape for two. Surrounded by open croftland with sweeping views of Loch Bracadale, the Cuillin mountains, and Macleod’s Tables, this minimalist retreat is all about space, serenity, and connection to the landscape. Inside, warm oak finishes and pared-back interiors create a calming, contemporary space where you can truly unwind in style.
We hope we’ve inspired you to do some exploring on the beautiful Isle of Skye! If you decide to visit any of the above places we would love to see what you get up to, so if you post any photos from your adventures on Instagram don’t hesitate to tag us @meanderapparel or use #everydayadventures. Happy exploring!
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