Isle of Skye

Journey across the sea to Skye, an island off Scotland’s north-west coast shaped by history, Gaelic culture, folklore and volcanic landscapes. Watch sunlight touch the Old Man of Storr, trace dinosaur footprints, explore ancient castles, spot marine wildlife and browse local galleries. From the Cuillin to neighbouring Raasay, Skye invites you to slow down and experience a different side of Scotland.

“Chi mi an t-eilean uaine 
Tir nam beanntan arda 
Ceo a'tuiteam tron a ghleann 
'Na shineadh air do raointean”        

“I see the green island 
land of the high mountains 
mist falling through the glen 
stretching out over your strips of land” 

'Skye' by Runrig

Skye is made for exploring. Whether you want to unwind in its natural landscapes, discover local arts and culture, or savour the island’s food and drink, there are experiences to suit every pace and interest throughout the year.

Dramatic landscapes and experiences

Skye’s windswept landscapes leave a lasting impression. Explore glens, coastlines and mountains shaped over millions of years. From gentle low-level walks to challenging mountain climbs, there’s an option for every ability. Looking for something more adventurous? Navigate Skye’s coastline by kayak, cycle past ancient landslides on an e-bike or see Skye from the water on a high-speed RIB. Afterwards, take a refreshing dive in the sea before warming up in one of the island’s sea saunas. 

Discover more activities on Skye

Sample local food and drink

Skye is a foodie paradise. From freshly landed langoustines, lobster, mussels and oysters to dishes made with local venison and lamb, the island’s restaurants serve the best from land and sea. You will also find creative vegetarian and vegan dishes showcasing seasonal produce from Skye and beyond as well as Michelin star restaurant, Loch Bay. Start the day with a coffee at Birch in Portree and pick up some freshly home baked delights from bakeries or honesty boxes. No visit to Skye is complete without a taste of two of its finest whiskies. Slàinte! 

Find your favourite dish on Skye

Get inspired by arts and crafts 

The landscapes of Skye have long inspired artists and makers. Discover galleries and studios dotted around the island, where contemporary ceramics, paintings, textiles and traditional crafts reflect the colours, stories and beautiful nature of Skye. Use the Art Skye Map to visit local artists such as Skyeskyns, tanners, makers and suppliers of luxurious sheepskins, home accessories and sustainably-made clothing.

View the Art Skye Map

Delve into the history and heritage of the island

Skye’s human history stretches back thousands of years, from prehistoric beginnings and Iron Age settlements to powerful clan rivalries a few centuries ago. Explore the remains of ancient brochs, discover how islanders once lived at the Skye Museum of Island Life, and uncover the stories of the two main clans of the island at Dunvegan Castle and Armadale Castle. Walk through remote glens where the remains of villages lie scattered across the landscape, a poignant reminder of the communities who once called Skye home. 

Discover the fascinating history of Skye

With several peninsulas spreading out like wings from the centre to the sea, it’s no wonder that Skye is often referred to as the “winged isle”. Discover what makes each part of the island so unique and choose your ideal base for your holiday.

Portree 

With its brightly coloured harbour and sheltered bay, Portree is a great place to experience island life. Browse the independent shops, and watch fishing boats come and go in the harbour. In the evening, visit one of the local restaurants or pubs and enjoy fresh seafood, live music and views across the bay. With good transport links and its central location, Portree is an ideal base for exploring the rest of the island. 

Visit Portree 

Trotternish 

Head north of Portree to explore a landscape shaped over millions of years. Discover dinosaur footprints at An Corran beach and Brother’s Point, walk up to meet the Old Man of Storr, see the waters of Mealt Falls tumble into the sea beside Kilt Rock, and take in the sweeping views across the Quiraing. Visit the haunted ruins of Duntulm Castle, perched high on the cliffs, and stop in Staffin or Uig, the peninsula’s two main villages, for some delicious food. 

Discover Staffin in Trotternish 

Dunvegan & Waternish 

Discover the history and creativity of north-west Skye in Dunvegan and Waternish. Explore Dunvegan Castle, the ancestral seat of Clan MacLeod for more than 800 years, then follow the coastal road to Coral Beach where light sands and turquoise waters create a striking contrast in the landscape. Continue to Waternish where studios and galleries are filled with the work of local artists. Browse handmade ceramics, textiles and artwork inspired by the islands’ landscapes, and enjoy stunning views across the water to the Outer Hebrides.   

Discover Dunvegan

Explore Waternish

Duirinish 

Duirinish is the westernmost peninsula of the island. Discover Skye’s weaving traditions at Skye Weavers and try your hand at pedalling the loom to create tweed. Continue to Neist Point, to the far west of the island, for stunning views and the chance to see dolphins, whales or even orcas before finishing the day with some fine dining at The Three Chimneys, one of Skye’s best-known restaurants. 

Explore the Duirinish peninsula 

Minginish 

Explore the Minginish peninsula in the south-west, home to the famous Fairy Pools, the Black Cuillin and Talisker Distillery. Dip your toe in the crystal-clear water beneath cascading waterfalls, stroll along the volcanic sands of Glenbrittle Beach, and take in the view of Skye’s towering mountain peaks. Stop for lunch at Café Cùil or sample freshly caught seafood at the Oyster Shed before visiting Talisker Distillery. End the day at The Old Inn in Carbost where live music and a welcoming atmosphere give you a taste of island life.   

Explore Carbost and the Minginish peninsula 

Broadford & Strathaird 

Broadford is Skye’s second-largest town and a popular base for exploring the island with views across Broadford Bay and plenty of places to eat, drink and stay. As you travel south towards Elgol, you can see traces of Skye’s industrial past at the Skye Marble Line. In Elgol, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Cuillin mountain range before taking a boat trip to the remote Loch Coruisk. Or head out to sea in the summer months in search of puffins and other seabirds around the Small Isles, including Canna.  

Plan your trip to Broadford  

Visit the village of Elgol  

Sleat

Known as the “Garden of Skye”, the Sleat peninsula in the south offers a gentler side of the island, with woodland trails, sheltered coastlines and tranquil gardens. Visit Torabhaig Distillery to discover Skye’s whisky-making traditions, explore history at Armadale Castle or enjoy woodland walks with views to the Sound of Sleat. Finish your day with a dining experience at Kinloch Lodge or Duisdale House and watch ferries cross the water towards Mallaig on the mainland.  

Visit Sleat, the Garden of Skye