Welcome to Hidden Scotland’s guide to the extraordinary Isle of Skye.
Welcome to Hidden Scotland’s guide to the extraordinary Isle of Skye. Many islands around Europe can claim to be blessed with grand scenery, but precious few can match the raw, elemental drama of Skye. Craggy slopes and muscular headlands stretch across the map like works in some gargantuan open-air gallery, while a glimmering array of lochs, burns and white-sand bays offset the towering geology.
The island is no pocket-sized retreat. Covering more than 1,650 square kilometres, it stands as a realm of its own, a land where eagles soar, skies brood and single-track roads snake off into the distance. As a cultural destination, meanwhile, it’s vibrantly alive, with a string of historical settlements and a population of some 12,000. Among these locals runs a rich vein of creativity and a long tradition of producing artists, musicians and makers – indeed, spend long enough among Skye’s cloud-snagged mountains and wave-bashed peninsulas and it’s hard not to feel inspired yourself.
The following pages are your guide to making the most of the island (as well as its far smaller but similarly lovely sister island, Raasay). In your hands you’ll find an overview of the best places to stay, the best things to do, the best locations to visit and the best spots to eat and drink.
As you’ll no doubt be aware, visitor numbers here can be high in peak season. With this in mind, we’ve also made an effort to spotlight a whole host of lesser-known attractions, championing the places and people that truly make Skye what it is. It’s somewhere to explore at length, a destination where the choicest rewards are often found in the quietest, most unexpected places – and we hope this guide allows you to enjoy this very special island to the full.
What our customers think
As a longtime reader of Hidden Scotland magazine, I had high expectations for their Isle of Skye guide, and it absolutely blew me away! This isn't just a guidebook; it's an invitation to experience Skye on a deeper level. The 'Areas' section is incredibly helpful in understanding the island's diverse landscapes, and the 'Walks, Wildlife & Nature' chapter is a dream come true for outdoor enthusiasts like me. This guide is coming with me on my Skye adventure!
I've been to Skye a few times, but the Hidden Scotland guide showed me a whole new side of the island. The 'Things to Do' section is packed with unique suggestions, from exploring historical sites to discovering local arts and crafts. I especially appreciated the focus on lesser-known attractions, which helped me avoid the peak-season crowds. The 'Food & Drink' recommendations were spot-on, too – I had some of the best meals of my life thanks to this guide!
Wow! This Isle of Skye guide is a game-changer. I love how it's organized, making it super easy to find exactly what I'm looking for. The 'Accommodation' section is particularly helpful, with great options for every budget. But what really sets this guide apart are the 'Stories' – they brought the history and culture of Skye to life in such a captivating way. I feel like I have a much deeper appreciation for the island now. I love Hidden Scotland magazine and now their guide is coming with me to Skye!
I'm not usually one for guidebooks, but the Hidden Scotland guide to Skye is an exception. It's beautifully designed, with stunning photography that captures the raw beauty of the island. I found the 'Getting Around' and 'Right to Roam' sections to be particularly informative and helpful. This guide is clearly written by people who are passionate about Skye, and it's inspired me to explore the island more thoughtfully and responsibly.
As a solo traveler, I'm always looking for resources that will help me make the most of my adventures. The Hidden Scotland guide to the Isle of Skye is exactly what I needed! It's packed with practical information, but it also goes beyond the basics, delving into the island's rich history, vibrant culture, and incredible natural beauty. The 'Calum's Road' story was particularly inspiring. I bought this because i'm a big fan of their magazine, and I'm so glad I did!
Having flipped through countless travel guides over the years, I can confidently say that the Hidden Scotland guide to Skye is one of the best I've encountered. It strikes the perfect balance between providing essential information and offering a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the destination. The 'Jurassic Isle of Skye' feature was a fascinating read, and the 'Food & Drink' section led me to some truly memorable culinary experiences. Highly recommended!
I just received my copy of the Hidden Scotland guide to Skye, and I'm already in love! The pull-out illustrated map by Emily Hogarth is not only practical but also a beautiful piece of art. And the fact that there are QR codes linking to narrated stories like 'Calum's Road' and 'Flora MacDonald'? Genius! It's like having a personal tour guide in your pocket. I can't wait to explore Skye with this guide as my companion.
As someone who appreciates a well-designed guidebook, I have to say that the Hidden Scotland guide to Skye is a cut above the rest. The 'Local Tips' sections are invaluable, offering insights that you simply won't find in other guides. And the 'Walks, Wildlife & Nature' chapter is a hiker's dream – it's clear that the authors know their stuff when it comes to exploring Skye's great outdoors. I'm particularly excited to check out some of the lesser-known trails mentioned.
I'm a big fan of supporting local businesses, so I was thrilled to see that the Hidden Scotland guide to Skye highlights so many independent shops, artisans, and eateries. The 'Skye's Best Shops' section is a fantastic resource for finding unique souvenirs and gifts. And the recommendations for 'Skye's Best Restaurants' and 'Our Favourite Bars' have me drooling already! This guide is a must-have for anyone who wants to experience the authentic heart of Skye.
Featuring
Some frequently asked questions
This guide is a comprehensive resource for exploring the Isle of Skye and its neighbouring island, Raasay. It includes information on history, places to stay, eat, and visit, as well as practical advice for travellers. The guide features tips and advice from locals, stories from the Isle of Skye by Graeme Johncock, and stunning photography by Simon Hird. Throughout the guide, you’ll also find fascinating facts and “did you know” snippets, adding depth and intrigue to your journey.
No, the guide is available in multiple formats. You can purchase the paper version from bookshops, our online store, or directly from OR shop in Skye if you're already on the island. The digital version can also be bought and accessed through our website in an HTML-readable format.
This guide is for anyone planning to visit Skye, whether you're a first-time visitor, a returning traveller, or someone seeking a deeper connection to the island's culture and landscapes. It’s also perfect for those simply interested in Skye, as it shares fascinating stories, interesting tales, and unique facts about the island.
After purchasing the digital guide, you’ll be directed straight to it for immediate access. You can also find it again later through your account page on the Hidden Scotland website or by following the link provided in your confirmation email.
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