Isle of Skye: 9 Top Things to See & Do
The shoreline converges with towering peaks on the Isle of Skye, a destination that ranks among the top attractions in Scotland. However, the allure of this place extends beyond its picturesque landscapes.
Visitors can also delve into Gàidhlig traditions, explore whisky production facilities, and engage with family histories, all within the confines of the Isle of Skye.
In this guide, you’ll discover a range of activities and destinations that make the Isle of Skye renowned for its scenic beauty. Are you interested in learning more about the top 9 activities and the best spots to visit on this island?
1. Trotternish – The splendid and magnificent route Abyss of the island
Located just beyond the fishing town of Portree, the Trotternish peninsula stands out as one of the most scenic areas on the island. It features towering rock formations, slowly eroding mountains, and steep cliffs that descend into the ocean.
The standout attraction of this breathtaking area is the Old Man of Storr. This impressive column is situated on the mainland and overlooks the remnants of the Trotternish Ridge.
Embark on a brief yet often challenging hike to the Old Man of Storr, and on a day with clear skies, the ocean views will leave you speechless. Capture the moment with your camera, as the scenery is truly captivating.
Continuing north from the Old Man, you’ll reach Quiraing. This region was sculpted by natural landslides that occurred thousands of years ago and still ongoing to this day, resulting in the formation of many large rocks. For a closer look at the unique geological features, take a stroll if the weather permits.
Fairy Glen, a valley filled with similar myths, is also located on the west coast of the peninsula and is another must-see.
2. Visit picture-perfect Portree
Cultured and Serene Environment
The vibrant village of Portree is located on the eastern shore of this natural marvel. The main village known as the capital of the island is a vibrant spot with an impressive harbour with pretty coloured buildings along the harbour engineered by the famous Thomas Telford, making it a must-see destination.
To enjoy the scenery of Portree, you must climb a hill locally referred to as “The Lump”. Alternatively, take a stroll along the Scorrybreac path, a scenic coastal route offering stunning vistas of the island of Raasay.
It’s hard to ignore the village’s surroundings, as it’s not entirely lacking in sights.
There are excellent dining options, focusing on the fresh produce available on the island. Moreover, there are a few local artisans who are part of the Skye artisans community, so after indulging in the tasty cuisine, feel free to explore for unique souvenirs.
For an authentic experience of the island, if you’re interested, visit the closest traditional pub for live music. Or, check if there are any events at the Isle of Skye Candle Co theatre during your visit.
3. Taste whisky made in the region at the Talisker Distillery
Indeed, Talisker Distillery holds the prestigious title of being the oldest on the island, situated by the waters of Loch Harport. Beyond its picturesque location, the distillery is renowned for its ability to craft whisky that is strong and exhibits a distinct maritime flavor, marked by smokey and peaty undertones.
This single malt has stood the test of time, and embark on this journey to discover its production process. Afterward, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the massive copper stills and inhale the intoxicating scent of almost-new oak barrels, all leading up to the moment you can savor this iconic drink. It’s highly recommended to do so on days when the weather outside isn’t ideal.
For those interested in exploring more spirits, consider a visit to two additional distilleries in the vicinity. These include Torabhaig Distillery and the Isle of Raasay Distillery.
4. Immersive yourself in MacLeod History at Dunvegan Castle
The initial stop on your journey through western Skye should undoubtedly be the Dunvegan Castle. This castle has served as the ancestral home for the MacLeod clan’s leaders for centuries, rich in history and tales of Skye. Keep in mind that the castle also boasts gardens, a secret park owned by the clan’s leaders.
If you’re up for it, consider visiting Coral Beach on the north end of Loch Dunvegan. The trek from Claigain is short but steep, but the view is breathtaking once the fog lifts if there is any, revealing the stunning scenery of the Outer Hebrides.
Alternatively, head to Neist Point to marvel at the stunning cliffs and the Lighthouse, marking the farthest western point of Skye.
If you’re in the mood for some good food, look no further than The Three Chimneys restaurant. Known as one of the premier Highland dining spots, a reservation is a must.
Moreover, if you’re exploring the northwest of Skye, Dunvegan village, located at the lake’s edge, might be the perfect base for your adventure.
5. See dinosaur footprints at An Corran Beach:See dinosaur footprints at An Corran Beach
Dinosaur & Legends
Yet, in addition to the enchanting mountains, the Trotternish peninsula also boasts a coastline. Specifically, the eastern coast offers a plethora of natural marvels on the island.
For instance, make sure to include Staffin and An Corran Beach in your itinerary. Just a mile north of the Staffin village, you’ll find the stunning black sand beach of An Corran. This is the site where, now immortalised in stone, are the ancient dinosaur footprints from around 200 million years ago, during the Jurassic period.
For further information on the footprints and to see other fossils, a visit to the Staffin Dinosaur Museum, located nearby, is recommended.
Top tip: Take a drive south from Staffin to witness the unique black cliffs at Kilt Rock. These cliffs are shaped like kilt pleats, which is why they earned the name “Kilt Rock,” a nod to the country’s national symbol of pride. Creag an Fheilidh in Scots Gàidhlig!
6. On your visit see the Cuillin hills
It’s possible to spot the most striking and widespread peaks of the Isle of Skye from the Scottish mainland; these are known as the Cuillin. These unique cliffs soar high above the ocean and were formed by volcanic eruptions that took place thousands of years ago. Under clear skies, one can enjoy an excellent view of the hills from Eilean Donan castle on the mainland.
Upon closer inspection, they become even more inspiring. A must-see spot is the Fairy Pools, a river that is both green and clear with waterfalls. Taking a Fairy Pools Hike Tour is a must.
For a fresh perspective, consider taking a boat trip through the picturesque Loch Coruisk, which is bordered by the Cuillin hills. The scenery is breathtaking, and the small village of Elgol marks the beginning and end of this remarkable journey through the mountains.
The core of this area is dramatic, attracting artists and writers such as Turner and Walter Scott.
7. Go see the lovely spot in the Sleat peninsula
This region, known as ‘The garden of Skye,’ features a more gradual slope compared to the steep peaks of the Cuillin and Trotternish areas.
Sleat is situated just off the coast, linked to Skye by the Skye Bridge, making it the initial parish one encounters on the island. Indeed, there is much to see and do here.
Why not start with Armadale Castle, where ivy wraps around the remains? Here, you’ll learn about the history of another prominent clan on Skye, the MacDonalds. Following that, you might want to visit the Torabhaig Distillery, located nearby to try another whisky from the area.
Other appealing destinations and great spots for walking are found seven miles south of the island’s southernmost point, the Point of Sleat. From this vantage point, you can admire the Small Isles, Ardnamurchan, and the rugged Knoydart mountains.
8. Another way to adventure is by going on a wildlife boat tour.
Famous sea creatures of Scotland include seals, dolphins, sharks, whales, and otters. Due to its rugged coastline and numerous sea lochs, Skye stands out as one of the premier destinations for marine life tours nationwide.
Guided tours are often arranged from Portree. Yet, visitors have the opportunity to observe Skye’s wildlife during their stay and while embarking on excursions from Dunvegan, Edinbane, Elgol, and Uig.
Taking a boat tour not only offers a fantastic opportunity to observe nature but also provides a unique chance to encounter wildlife. This incredible region will also transform your view of the world.
9. Take home your own piece of Skye
If you’re a lover of the outdoors and exploring the picturesque areas of Skye, the saying ‘take only photographs, leave only footprints’ is quite fitting. Yet, this doesn’t imply you’ll return empty-handed or without a souvenir to remind you of your adventure.
At present, the island is home to a vibrant community of artists and craftspeople. Many showcase their work in local galleries or operate their own shops. Purchasing a small item bearing the Skye logo indicates you’re likely to choose one crafted locally.
I prefer to back the smaller, local makers, among whom are some of the finest. Edinbane Pottery offers beautifully crafted hand-made pots and vases, Skye Weavers is renowned for its scarves, and the Isle of Skye Candle Company specializes in selling primarily homemade candles.
When is the best time to come to Skye?
Visiting the Isle of Skye is a year-round option, with its beauty remaining intact throughout the seasons. The ideal time to explore depends on the kind of experience you seek or the activities you’re interested in.
The summer months, particularly June, July, and August, are the peak season for tourists visiting Skye. These are often the warmest and most humid times of the year, with summer in full swing with maximum temperatures of around 21c on a good day!. Additionally, the island’s unique location means that the sunset occurs around 10:45 PM in June, making it an excellent time for late night sunsets.
However, it’s worth noting that some of the most popular natural attractions and their parking areas tend to be overcrowded during this period. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the evening or early in the morning.
On the other hand, these areas are less crowded compared to summer and even at the start of autumn. Opting to visit in April, May, or September allows for pleasant, warm nights with minimal crowds. Facilities often operate on similar schedules during these times.
For those interested in experiencing the island’s unique traditions, October is a great time to visit. While the temperatures are cooler than at the start of autumn, the area is less crowded.
If solitude is a priority, November to March is the best time to visit Skye. During winter, the Cuillin Mountains are often covered in snow, offering a picturesque backdrop. Take advantage of the daylight and enjoy the pleasant weather before treating yourself to a cozy dinner at a local pub. The days are short and nights are long which is a great opportunity for stargazing on clear nights.
How do you get to the Isle of Skye?
Nonetheless, Skye is a secluded island, yet it can be reached by road from the mainland. In fact, it’s feasible to drive there. Therefore, Skye merits inclusion in a driving tour with Sgurr Tours, which could also highlight other beloved destinations like Loch Ness and Glen Coe.
Begin your journey from the mainland town of Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh and cross the Skye Bridge to reach the south-eastern corner of Skye, close to the village of Kyleakin.
Additionally, there are two ferry routes to consider. One option is a short trip from the mainland town of Mallaig to Armadale in the southern part of Skye.
The other is a ferry from Tarbert on the Isle of Harris to Uig in the Trotternish peninsula of Skye. This route is ideal for those looking to make Skye a stop on a series of Scottish island tours.
Accommodation on the Isle of Skye
Popular spots for lodging often include the cities of Dunvegan, Portree, Broadford, and Armadale. Yet, another noteworthy destination is Kyle of Lochalsh, located on the mainland side of Skye, ‘Bridge’. Following a visit to this area, a day trip to Skye is easily accessible.
If you decide to visit this location, we recommend booking in advance, as it tends to be more crowded during the spring, summer, and fall seasons, when an influx of tourists visit the island. Alternatively, consider exploring Skye with Sgùrr Tours, where the option for accommodation is provided, ensuring a high-quality stay selected by your personal travel advisor.
How many days should one allocate for the whole stay on the Isle of Skye?
Skye stands out as an ideal destination for leisurely travel and discovery, boasting natural beauty, an intriguing history, and a wide array of activities.
Sgùrr Tours offers a day trip to Skye, allowing you to experience a taste of the island. However, for a more immersive experience, a few days would be highly recommended.
If you plan to visit Scotland in the future, it’s advisable to allocate at least 2 to 3 days for Skye. This will give you ample time to explore the island’s unique attractions and activities, as there’s no rush.
Should you choose to extend your stay beyond 3 days, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in more off-the-beaten-path activities, making your visit truly memorable.
Discover the Best of Skye with Sgùrr Tours
Now that you have read our Isle of Skye: 9 Top Things to See & Do you know where to go and what to see on the Isle of Skye, it’s time to start planning your escape. Jaw-dropping scenery, captivating clan history, and renowned Scottish whisky await.
Book with Sgùrr Tours and we’ll take the hassle out of arranging your trip. We can also organise your accommodation, and optional activities. Take a look at our Private tours to the Isle of Skye. Standard Isle of Skye Tour, Old Man of Storr Trail Tour, Fairy Pools Hike Tour