The Perfect Day On The Isle of Skye
Written by Graeme Johncock
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The Isle of Skye is a magical place, rightly considered one of the best places to visit in Scotland. It’s much larger than many people first expect, but it can still get very busy at peak times. As somebody who shows a lot of people around the island, here’s how I avoid the crowds to spend the perfect day on Skye!
Sligachan Old Bridge
The first stop is always Old Sligachan Bridge with spectacular views of both the Red and Black Cuillin Mountains. It’s the perfect way to start the day thanks to an old legend that claims if you submerge your face in the water for 7 seconds, without wiping it dry after, then the Fairies of Skye will grant you everlasting beauty!
Fairy Pools
It takes around 25 minutes to drive from the Old Bridge to the Fairy Pools along a narrow, winding road. Aim to be there as close to 9am as possible to beat the crowds and enjoy the walk alongside the water towards the mountains. The river falls into a series of blue-green pools, perfect for an icy dip and taking around an hour to 90 minutes return trip. Just be aware that the final stretch to the car park feels far steeper than when you walked down!
Lunch In Carbost
Partly retrace your steps and then turn off for Carbost where you’ll find a perfect collection for a lunch stop. Caora Dubh for coffee, Talisker Distillery for a whisky and the Oystershed for lunch. My top recommendation is the Oak Smoked Salmon and chips!
Dunvegan Castle
Refuelled with Scottish seafood, it’s a 30 minute drive around the coast to Dunvegan Castle. Still home to the Chief of Clan Macleod, this ancient fortress is packed with history and legends. Keep your eyes open for the Fairy Flag hanging on the wall, the prized possession of the Macleods. It’s said that the flag was a gift from a Fairy Princess who had married an early Macleod chief and had to leave their son behind in the mortal realm. So far waving the flag has protected the clan from disease, war and fire!
Rha waterfall
Another 30 minute drive with incredible coastal scenery takes you to Uig and a hidden spot of natural beauty. A few minutes’ walk from a small car park takes you to the Uig Community Woodland where the impressive Rha Waterfall crashes down amongst the trees. On warm days the pool is a popular swimming spot, but in stormy weather it’s even more impressive!
Kilmuir Cemetery
Just a 15 minute drive north around the Trotternish Peninsula takes you to Kilmuir Cemetery. That’s where you’ll find the soaring cross dedicated to Flora MacDonald, saviour of the Jacobite leader Bonnie Prince Charlie. Further into the graveyard, a mail-clad warrior marks the resting place of Angus Martin of the Wind! If you have spare time then the Skye Museum of Island Life is a brilliant way to see how people once lived right across the Hebrides. The Highland Deli is also a great spot to top up your caffeine level!
Duntulm Castle
Almost at the very tip of the peninsula, a 10 minute drive takes you to the ruins of Duntulm Castle. Once the main base of Clan MacDonald on Skye, it’s said to be one of the most haunted castles in Scotland. Margaret Macleod has been seen weeping as her husband Donald Gorm MacDonald stomps around looking for a fight. Listen carefully and you might hear Hugh MacDonald’s rasping voice looking for some water after he died of thirst in the dungeon. The views out to sea from Duntulm are incredible, but the walls are crumbling so extra care should be taken around the cliffs here!
Quiraing Viewpoint
20 minutes of driving through an increasingly dramatic landscape takes you up to the Quiraing viewpoint. The road is very steep, narrow and winding with hairpin bends, so should only be taken by confident drivers. The reward is one of the best views in all of Scotland! It only takes a minute to walk there from the large car park on a well- made path, but if you have the time and energy then a 3-4 hour walk will take you up amongst the rugged landscape itself. The Quiraing is actually a massive landslip that’s still moving, although by millimetres every couple of years so there’s nothing to be worried about!
Portree
Driving back south to finish your day around Skye, it takes 30 minutes to arrive in the main town Portree. It’s the perfect base to explore the island and the pretty coloured houses by the harbour are best viewed from beside the road across from the Scorrybreac Restaurant. Portree is packed with independent shops, eateries and pubs to reward yourself with a dram after a packed day.
Places to stay nearby
Skye is best enjoyed longer than just a single day. The island is far bigger than many people first expect, and distances can take longer than they appear on the map. Giving yourself extra time means you can start early, linger when you want to, avoid the busiest moments, and see more than just the headline spots. These places all make great bases for exploring this route and the wider island at a more relaxed pace.
Half of One
Perched alone above the coast at Culnacnoc, this restored 19th century crofter’s cottage sits at the foothills of the Quiraing and just a short walk from Brothers Point. Sleeping up to eight, it’s ideal if you want direct access to the Trotternish highlights while still being only around 20 minutes from Portree. One of the best views in Skye.
Black h
A contemporary hideaway on the west coast near Harlosh, sleeping two and designed around big sea views and clean lines. It’s a peaceful base if you’re focusing on Dunvegan, Uig and the north of the island.
Wood h
Close by and sleeping up to six, Wood h offers the same west coast setting with more space for families or friends. Expect open views, quiet surroundings and an easy drive to the main loop of this itinerary.
Kinloch Lodge
Set on the shores of Loch na Dal in Sleat, Kinloch Lodge offers a classic Highland hotel stay with an excellent restaurant on site. Best suited if you’re pairing this Skye day with time exploring the south of the island.
Stonechat Bothy
A secluded self catering bothy near Isleornsay, sleeping two and set within croftland with fantastic views. A good option for couples wanting a quieter base in the south.
Black Shed
A striking, award winning cabin near Dunvegan with floor to ceiling glazing and a wood burning stove. Set in croftland with amazing views, it’s ideal if you want something design led and a short drive to Dunvegan.
Tigh an Tobair
Near Dunvegan on the west side of Skye, this spacious house works well for longer stays and larger groups. It places you within easy reach of Neist Point, Dunvegan Castle and the northern loop of the island.
Skye Shepherd Huts
Located near Heaste, these cosy huts offer a simple, well designed stay for couples. You’re well positioned for exploring Broadford, Sleat and looping north towards Portree the following day.
The Dunvegan
A well known restaurant with rooms in the village of Dunvegan, and one of the best places to eat on the island. Expect locally sourced seafood and Highland produce, with much of it cooked over open fire. Staying here means you can walk upstairs after dinner and start the next day right on the west coast.
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