Bucket list experience:
The so-called ‘Old Man of Storr’ is an Isle of Skye landmark
Skye is the largest of the Hebridean islands (48 miles by 25) – and the only one attached to the mainland by a handy bridge.
Despite the fairly remote location, there are plenty of reasons to make a beeline here. The raw grandeur of the landscape, dominated by the dramatic Cuillins range, draws munro-baggers, hikers, mountain bikers – and movie-makers; its credits include Macbeth and blockbuster fantasy, The BFG.
The Trotternish Peninsula in the island’s north is home to some of the most striking landscapes in Scotland, easily accessible from the island’s ‘capital’, the wonderfully colourful village of Portree located on its eastern coast.
The Isle is also a place of pilgrimage for gourmet travellers schlepping to the Three Chimneys or Kinloch Lodge, the home of doyenne of Scottish cookbook writing, Lady Claire Macdonald.
And then there’s the history; Bonnie Prince Charlie famously fled over the sea to Skye after his defeat at the Battle of Culloden, and 13th-century Dunvegan Castle was the traditional seat of Clan MacLeod.
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Destination Guide >The Skye bridge makes it the most accessible of Scotland’s islands to visit (bad weather affects many ferry crossings in Scotland). It’s off the northwest coast and easy to explore independently by car. Having your own transport is useful. There’s no train station on the island but you can catch the train from Glasgow to Mallaig (6 hours) then take the ferry or the train from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh (2.5 hours) and a bus across the bridge.
If you’re visiting for the scenery (as opposed staying for the food), you could take a guided tour from Inverness. Tours take a full day (10 hours +) but often also stop at the magical Eilean Donal Castle, ticking off two sites in one.
Book ahead in summer. It’s so popular the island is sometimes reported to be ‘full’, with tourists asked to stay away if they haven’t booked accommodation.
Skye is a year-round destination, its wild, brooding landscape even more atmospheric in autumn or winter – without the crowds.
Isle of Skye, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
This 13th-century castle – restored in the 19th century – was the traditional seat of Clan Macleod, one of the Highland’s most celebrated clans. It’s filled with Highlands clan history – portraits, weapons, and assorted clan memorabilia and heirlooms.
Best for ages: 4+ | £15
Isle of Skye, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
Another geological highlight of the Trotternish Peninsula is Kilt Rock, an impressive 90m cliff constructed of odd-unusual basalt blocks. Close by is the plunging Mealt Waterfall, fed by Mealt Loch. See them from the same observation point, 17km north of Portree and just south of the village of Staffin.
Best for ages: 4+ | Free
Isle of Skye, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
This family-run, manor house hotel offers a combination of stylish comfort and warm hospitality from owner Isabel. If you don’t stay, then go for the outstanding gourmet food – using fresh local ingredients and traditional Highland recipes. There’s a whisky bar with over 120 different bottles.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Isle of Skye , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
Skye punches above its weight in terms of foodie enclaves and chef Michael Smith’s Scottish seafood restaurant in the village of Stein on the Waternish peninsula – is one of the Michelin-starred highlights.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Isle of Skye, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[28.2 miles]
A romantic, yet family-friendly 16th-century hunting lodge, surrounded by spectacular landscapes. It’s an ideal base for exploring the incomparable Isle of Skye – and the in-house restaurant is outstanding.
Official star rating:
Isle of Skye, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[30.7 miles]
Legendary restaurant with rooms in an old crofter’s cottage, set on the remote shore of Loch Dunvegan on the Isle of Skye.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Scottish Highlands, United Kingdom (UK)
Magnificent mountain scenery slashed by silvery lochs and peppered with brooding castles: all laden with rich Scottish heritage, history and tradition.
