Things to do on the Isle of Skye

An island of epic landscapes, Skye is full of magical experiences just waiting to happen. There are so many places to visit in Skye, from spectacular natural scenery such as the Cuillin mountains, Kilt Rock and the Sleat peninsula, to cultural attractions including the Skye Museum of Island Life and Dunvegan Castle. 

  1. Point of Sleat Isle of Skye

    Point of Sleat

    © @comewiththomas

    Isle of Skye walks don’t get much more dramatic than Point of Sleat. The route to the lighthouse takes around 3-4 hours and is a great place for spotting marine wildlife.   

    Why visit?

    The hike boasts spectacular views over to the islands of Eigg and Rum. Make sure you also take a short detour to the beautiful sandy beach and blue waters of Camas Daraich on your way.

     

  2. Armadale Isle of Skye

    View of Armadale Castle ruin

    Armadale Castle is one of the top places to visit on the Isle of Skye. Visit the castle ruins and discover over 1,500 years of history at the ancestral home and lands of Clan Donald. 

    Why visit?

    The Gulf Stream creates a mild climate, making the 20,000 acres of land and gardens on the estate a floral paradise to explore.

    Key facilities
    • Parking
    • On Public Transport Route
    • Pets Welcome
    • Hearing Loop
    • Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
    • Level Access
    • Accessible toilets
    • WiFi
    • Cafe or Restaurant
  3. Dunvegan Castle Isle of Skye

    Dunvegan Castle & Gardens

    © MacLeod Estate. All rights reserved.

    No trip to Skye is complete without a visit to the mythical Dunvegan Castle. Wander around the impressive gardens, grab a bite in the recently refurbished café, or even catch a boat to see the Loch Dunvegan seal colony. 

    Why visit?

    This Isle of Skye castle is the oldest continually inhabited castle in Scotland and is packed full of stories from Clan Macleod. Get swept up in its history, with plenty of treasures to admire including Bonnie Prince Charlie relics and the sacred Fairy Flag banner. 

    Key facilities
    • Parking
    • On Public Transport Route
    • Pets Welcome
    • Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
    • Accessible toilets
    • Cafe or Restaurant
  4. The Oyster Shed Isle of Skye

    Mussels from The Oyster Shed

    © Kim Walton

    After a day of exploring, enjoy one of the many places to eat in Skye. The Oyster Shed in Carbost offers plenty of local produce, including crab, scallops, salmon and oysters. 

    Why visit?

    Get the full Scottish experience and sit outside with your fresh catch, watching the sun set over the stunning Loch Harport. Bliss! 

    Key facilities
    • Parking
    • Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
  5. Talisker Distillery Isle of Skye

    Talisker Distillery & Visitors Centre

    Nestled on the shore of a loch with dramatic views of the Cuillins, Talisker Distillery produces world-renowned single malt whisky. Book an authentic Skye distillery tour at the oldest working distillery on the island and find out why this whisky is so popular. 

    Why visit?

    For the whisky of course! Talisker whisky is characterised by the surrounding rugged landscape and is full of rich, full-bodied flavours. 

    Key facilities
    • Parking
    • Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
    • Accessible toilets
    • WiFi
  6. Staffin Beach Isle of Skye

    The Old Man Of Storr at the west end of the Trotternish Ridge near Staffin.

    © The Union / VisitScotland, all rights reserved

    Staffin Beach sits beneath the famous Trotternish ridge and is one of the most interesting Isle of Skye beaches. There’s a picturesque village nearby and some amazing geology to sit back and admire from the bay. 

    Why visit?

    It’s the perfect spot to take the whole family exploring. Dinosaur footprints were discovered on this beach in 2002, so who knows what you might find! 

  7. Skye to St Kilda St Kilda

    St Kilda

    © VisitScotland / Airborne Lens

    Take a Skye boat tour to the most remote part of the British Isles and immerse yourself in its unique nature and history, with a day trip from Skye to St Kilda. 

    Why visit?

    St Kilda is a dual UNESCO world heritage site and national nature reserve and is home to the world’s largest colony of gannets and fulmars.

    Please be aware that St Kilda is a protected environment and cannot accommodate a large number of visitors. Tours by boat are available but access to the island is strictly controlled.

     

  8. Portree boat trip Isle of Skye

    Seaflower Skye

    One of the top things to do in Skye is to adventure around the nearby islands. Climb aboard the Seaflower Skye for a 5-star sea tour experience. Grab a glass of wine and some fresh, locally sourced seafood on board as you watch the stunning scenery unfold. 

    Why visit?

    Departing daily from Portree, Seaflower Skye offer a range of unique trips and packages. Visit the Isle of Raasay and its distillery, or head to Rona for a chance to see the local wildlife. You can even enjoy a luxury trip across the bay with the evening prosecco cruise package. 

  9. Sea kayaking Isle of Skye

    South Skye Sea Kayak

    There is no shortage of activities in Skye for adventurers! Escape the crowds and take to the waters with South Skye Sea Kayak. Discover some of the islands natural wonders and wildlife, some of which are only accessible by kayak. 

    Why visit?

    Expert guides cater trips to all levels and experiences, from gentle wildlife tours to catching some bigger waves.  Some sessions are also available in Gaelic or German.  

    Key facilities
    • Parking
    • On Public Transport Route

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