THE ULTIMATE
Isle of Skye Road Trip
The Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most popular destinations, and it’s not hard to see why. With its amazing views, historical sites, and plenty of outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. Let’s take a look at some of the must-see places on your Isle of Skye road trip.
Your Isle of Skye road trip starts here…
1. Sligachan
Sligachan is a small village located on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, and the perfect place to start your Isle of Skye road trip. It is renowned for its stunning views of the Cuillin Mountains, making it popular with hikers, climbers and photographers. The village itself has a few amenities, like a hotel and cafe, but is mostly made up of quaint cottages and sweeping landscapes. There is a car park just on the left before you cross the bridge and get to the village: this is the best place to park to take short walk to see the view below…
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2. Portree
Portree is the largest town on the Isle of Skye, and where you’ll find the highest concentration of things like restaurants, shops and other amenities. Here’s a quick guide to Portree:
1. Accommodation: There are several accommodation options in Portree, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and guesthouses. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, as Portree can get quite busy.
2. Attractions: One of the most famous landmarks in Portree is the colorful harbor, where you can take a boat tour to see the island’s wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and whales.
3. Food and Drink: Portree has a range of dining options, from traditional Scottish pubs to fine dining restaurants. You can sample the local cuisine, including seafood dishes like fish and chips, seafood chowder, and fresh oysters.
4. Shopping: Portree has a variety of shops and boutiques, selling souvenirs, local crafts, and artwork. You can also find clothing and outdoor gear, as well as food and drink products.
3. The Old Man of Storr
The Old Man of Storr is one of Skye’s most famous landmarks, and one that you can see without getting out of your car if you wish (although, if you’re able to, a climb up to the rock itself is highly recommended). It is a large rock formation that stands over 160 feet tall and is visible from miles away. Here is some information to help you plan your visit to the Old Man of Storr:
- Access: The Old Man of Storr is located about 7 miles north of the town of Portree, and it is easily accessible by car or by foot. There is a car park at the start of the path, which leads to the base of the rock formation.
- Hiking: The path is about 2.5 miles long and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. The hike can be challenging, with some steep sections and uneven terrain, but the views are well worth the effort.
- Photography: The Old Man of Storr is a popular spot for photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the light is at its best. The rock formation is also surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Trotternish Ridge and the Sound of Raasay.
- History: Legend has it that the rock formation is the thumb of a giant who was buried in the earth. Others believe that it was the site of an ancient battle or that it has mystical powers.
- Wildlife: The area around the Old Man of Storr is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds of prey, red deer, and sheep. Visitors are asked to respect the wildlife and not to disturb them.
Overall, the Old Man of Storr is a must-see attraction for visitors to the Isle of Skye, with stunning views, hiking opportunities, and rich history and mythology.
4. Lealt Falls
Lealt Falls is a stunning waterfall located on the Isle of Skye. It is one of the island’s most popular attractions, known for its impressive cliff-like drop of 115 feet. Visitors can reach Lealt Falls by taking a very short walk from the large carpark nearbye. From the viewing platform above the waterfall. Further up the hill from the carpark visitors can take in spectacular views from the leth-allt view point which gives spectacular views across to mainland Scotland. On a sunny day, rainbows created by sunlight shining through mist and spray cast an enchanting spell over this captivating spot!
5. Kilt Rock
Kilt Rock and Lealt Falls Viewpoint is a popular tourist destination located on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. The site offers stunning views of Kilt Rock, a dramatic sea cliff that looks like the pleats of a kilt, as well as the Lealt Waterfall, which drops over 200 feet down the cliff face into the sea. From the viewpoint, visitors can take in stunning panoramic views of this truly remarkable natural wonder, including majestic cliffs and the rocky shoreline below.
6. Staffin
Staffin is a small village located on the Trotternish peninsula on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. The village is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. As you drive towards it you will see it’s unmissable collection of white houses scattered amongst the beautiful landscape.
The village is home to several archaeological sites, including the remains of a prehistoric village and a dinosaur footprint, which can be seen at low tide on the beach at An Corran.
Visitors can also explore the local culture and history at the Staffin Museum, which showcases the history of the village and the surrounding area.
The village has a small but vibrant community, with a handful of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can sample local produce, including fresh seafood and traditional Scottish fare.
7. The Quiraing
No Isle of Skye road trip would be complete without a visit to The Quiraing – an awe-inspiring range of rocky mountains which tower above the island. With spectacular views across Trotternish Peninsula, this natural formation was created as a result of a massive landslip thousands of years ago.
Today, visitors can take in the stunning scenery by taking a hike along the ridge or simply admire it from one of the many viewpoints overlooking it. The most popular route for explorers takes hikers through beautiful forests and past picturesque lochs – all culminating with an incredible view from the sea cliffs at its highest point. From here, visitors can take in panoramic views stretching as far as Lewis and Harris.
The road up is mostly single track so take care!
8. Skye Museum of Island Life
The Skye Museum of Island Life is a unique open-air museum set in the grounds of Kilmuir House on the Isle of Skye. Built in 1953, it offers visitors a chance to explore the traditions and culture of those who lived on Skye in the past.
In the museum, you can see inside traditional thatched roof cottages from over two hundred years ago. Inside each cottage, you’ll find everything from spinning wheels and weaving looms to historic kitchenware and tools used for everyday life.
The museum also has an amphitheatre where visitors can watch live performances and reenactments during special events. There are also plenty of opportunities for kids to get involved with activities such as storytelling, crafts and games inspired by their ancestors!
9. The Fairy Glen
The Fairy Glen on Skye is an enchanting hidden paradise located in the North West of the Island. This area features a twisting and winding path, dotted with ancient standing stones and small lochans that are said to be home to fairies. The road from Uigg to the Glen is single track with passing places: there is a paid car park at the glen, but the Glen itself is free to enter.
10. Dunvegan Castle & Gardens
Located on the Isle of Skye, Scotland, Dunvegan Castle & Gardens is a stunning estate with a rich history. Spanning over 800 years, it has been the ancestral home of the chiefs of Clan MacLeod, who still live there today.
The castle itself is an imposing structure surrounded by lush gardens and a tranquil loch, with beautiful views stretching out across Loch Dunvegan. Inside, visitors can explore its Great Hall with its rows of portraits and learn about the storied past through guided tours offered throughout the year.
Outside, sprawling gardens offer something to see in every season – from colourful rhododendrons in spring to the spectacular autumn leaves in October. There’s also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy including fishing excursions and boat rental services available nearby.
11. Neist Point
Neist Point is a spectacular headland located on the Isle of Skye, Scotland, and as essential stop on your Isle of Skye road trip. With majestic cliffs and rolling grassy hills, this area offers breathtaking views across to the Outer Hebrides Islands.
The scenery at Neist Point is particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset, when the light casts beautiful colours across the landscape. Reaching the tip of the point involves a thrilling walk along its rugged clifftops, which offer unbeatable panoramas of the sea beyond. Once there, visitors can explore its nearby lighthouse or take in its wildlife sights – from colonies of seabirds to basking seals.
12. The Fairy Pools
The Fairy Pools on Isle of Skye are majestic, crystal-clear pools surrounded by majestic mountains. Located just south of the village of Carbost and crisscrossed by tumbling waterfalls and sparkling burns, these rocky pools offer an idyllic spot for a refreshing dip or just to admire the beauty that surrounds it.
The magical pools are a popular destination amongst visitors to the Isle of Skye who come to marvel at its natural beauty. Along with breathtaking views, there is plenty of wildlife to discover too – including wild goats, otters, salmon and trout.
On a clear day, the vibrant colours of the Fairy Pools are simply mesmerising. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or some peaceful relaxation, this spot is sure to bewitch even the most seasoned traveller!
13. Armadale Castle & Gardens
Armadale Castle, Gardens & Museum is a historic estate located on the Isle of Skye. It is home to the crumbling ruins of Armadale Castle, which was once the ancestral seat of Clan MacDonald.
Today, visitors can explore the castle’s sprawling grounds and wander amongst its ancient trees, tranquil lochs and woodlands. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and displays that tell the story of Skye through the centuries.
The gardens are also well worth a visit; with over 7 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens featuring lush meadows, colourful flower beds, orchards and woodland walks. On-site activities include falconry shows, traditional music performances and garden tours.
The Kylescu Bridge crossing Loch a’ Chàirn
The Kylescu Bridge crossing Loch a’ Chàirn Bhàin in the far north of Scotland
Isle of Skye – Scotland
Dramatic scenery on the Uig to Staffin road on the Isle of Skye in northwest Scotland.
Colorful houses in Portree on Skye
The colorful rainbow houses with reflection in the still water of the fishing harbor of Portree on an overcast day on the Isle of Skye, Inner Hebrides in Scotland, UK.
Isle of Skye Bridge, ocean, mountains
Isle of Skye Bridge, ocean, mountains
Furry highland cow in Isle of Skye, Scotland
Furry highland cow in Isle of Skye, Scotland
Scottish nature and landscape
The Lake District in North West England
Isle of Skye – Scotland
The old bridge at Sligachan on the Isle of Skye in the Cuillin Hills in the Inner Hebrides of northwest Scotland.
old-mann-of-storr-at-night-with-northern-lights
Neist-Point-isle-of-skye
Fairy pools, Isle of Skye, Scotland
Fairy pools, Isle of Skye, Scotland
Long exposure of the Fairy Glen in the Isle of Skye, Scotland, UK
A long exposure of the Fairy Glen in the Isle of Skye, Scotland, UK
Armadale_Castle_5
Dunnottar scottish medieval fortress or castle. Highlands of Sco
Dunnottar scottisch medieval fortress or castle. Highlands of Scotland, Uk, Europe.