Welcome to the beautiful Isle of Skye, one of Scotland’s most spectacular and distinctive landscapes. Known for its dramatic mountains, rugged coastline and ever-changing weather, Skye is a place that feels wild and wonderfully remote.
There is so much to explore across the island, from the striking Cuillin mountains to the famous Fairy Pools and the dramatic landscapes of the Trotternish Peninsula. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring, as well as beautiful beaches, waterfalls, hidden glens and viewpoints that are well worth stopping for.
Skye is also steeped in history and folklore. The island is home to ancient ruins, historic castles and landscapes that have inspired stories and legends for generations. Dunvegan Castle, the ancestral home of Clan MacLeod, is one of the island’s best-known historic sites, while places such as Dunscaith Castle offer a glimpse into Skye’s fascinating past.
And after a day spent exploring, there are plenty of lovely places to eat and drink, from cosy pubs to cafés and restaurants serving local produce. It’s the perfect way to end a day outdoors, particularly when the weather has been doing its very best to remind you that you’re in Scotland.
Whether you’re visiting for the hiking, the scenery, the history or simply the chance to escape into the great outdoors, Skye has plenty to offer. And while the weather can be unpredictable and distances can take longer than you might expect, that wildness is very much part of its appeal.
Getting there
The Isle of Skye is an island off the coast of the northwest Scottish Highlands. It is easy to reach as it’s actually linked to the mainland via a bridge, from the Kyle of Lochalsh. Portree is the main town and could make a good base for travelling around the island, or hire a campervan to drive around the whole island and stay in various campsites along the way.
When to visit
We particularly love the Isle of Skye in the autumn, when the crowds disperse and the air becomes crisper. You’re also less likely to meet the infamous Scottish midgies at this time of year.
How long to stay
We’d recommend visiting the Isle of Skye for between 4 and 7 days.
In this guide
The Old Man of Storr
Big skies on Skye
old man of storr
hike
This is undoubtedly one of the more popular things to do on Skye, but seeing these impressive pillars of rock in the flesh really is worth it! Legend has it Legend has it that the Old Man of Storr was a giant who lived on the Trotternish Peninsula. When he died during a battle, the ground swallowed him up and all that was left above ground was his thumb, which is the main rock pinnacle you can see. It’s a straightforward trail up to a viewpoint from the car park, that’s a little steep in parts but very well marked. The route is out and back and takes around 45mins to 1 hour one way.
Getting there: The Old Man of Storr is located on the northeast of the Isle of Skye. There is a large pay and displat car park just off the A585.
The hungry Gull
café | staffin | thehungrygull.com
The Hungry Gull is a lovely little café in Staffin, on the north-east coast of the Isle of Skye, and a particularly good stop if you’re exploring the Trotternish Peninsula. Set within the local community hall, it has a relaxed, welcoming feel and is a great place to refuel between walks and sightseeing.
The menu is centred around wholesome, filling food, with plenty of creative twists and locally sourced ingredients. You’ll find everything from hearty brunch dishes and generous lunches to homemade cakes and good coffee, with vegetarian and vegan options available too. Their menus change, so there’s often something new to try.
It’s also more than just a café, with the space hosting community events and showcasing work from local artists and makers. The Hungry Gull has become a firm favourite with both locals and visitors, and it’s easy to see why. If you’re exploring the north of Skye, it’s well worth adding to your itinerary.
Getting there: The Old Man of Storr is located on the northeast of the Isle of Skye. There is a large pay and displat car park just off the A585.