Destination Wilderness: Top Travel Tips for Visiting the Isle of Skye, Scotland
- MemoirsofaMountainGirl
- Apr 27, 2020
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 12, 2020
Skye is one of the top destinations for anyone visiting the Scottish Highlands. It is well known for its rugged landscape and breathtaking scenery and has a rich Celtic culture and history. I spent the best part of 4 days touring around the island and I wanted to share my rough itinerary with you in the hope you will get to experience the very best of Skye. Although, there are so many little pockets of wonder on this small island I left feeling like I could have spent a full week there soaking up the scenery and just generally switching off.
Stay in a Whisky Distillery on the Isle of Rassay
The only way to access the Isle of Rassay via boat from the Isle of Skye so make sure to check the ferry timetables before you travel. I would recommend an overnight stay on the island so you can properly explore all the little nukes and crannies and secluded beaches. There are only two places to stay on the island - either the House of Raasay or in the Rasaay Distillery. The Distillery is cosy & clean with a modern feel about with a breathtaking backdrop of the Cuillins to the West and Torridon to the East.
Walk up to the Old Man Storr
One of the Highland's most Iconic viewpoints, this is a must do walk which takes approx one hour. The 'old man' is a large pinnacle of rock that stands high, with panoramic views across the peninsula. It is Majestic an eerie at the same time.
Climb the Cuillin Mountains
There are may different walking and hiking routes you can take on the Cuillin that cater for most capabilities. Climbing the iconic ridge of the Black Cuillin however is only recommended for experienced climbers. I would recommend the 6km route around Loch Coruisk. This is one of the wildest lochs in Scotland.
Walk out to Neist Point Lighthouse
The lighthouse is one of the most famous in Scotland and is located in the area of Durinish on the West Coast of Skye
Visit Eilean Donan Castle
At the meeting point of three sea lochs on the west coast of Scotland, Eilean Donan is situated by the picturesque village of Dornie on the main tourist route to the Isle of Skye. this is a great little stop off as part of a road trip either on your journey to or from Skye.
Walk the loop of the Quairaing.
The Quairaing is a hill circuit and walkers haven with views of the most spectacular landscape in Scotland. The hike will take approximately 2 hours to complete the circuit. Reserve this activity for a dry clear day for this trek if you can.
Go 'Wild Swimming' in the Fairy Pools of Glenbrittle
A dip in the crystal clear, natural rock pools in the river brittle is an essential must do on your Scottish adventure.
Eat Venison and Haggis BonBons at Rassay House
For more information on dining in the Scottish Highlands and where to eat - check out my other blog on The Best Restaurants in the Scottish Highlands.
Watch the seals from a secluded beach
We schlepped through overgrown paths and through fields of cattle to find the cutest little beach on the isle of Raasay. I don't know what the name of the beach is unfortunately but we were the only people on it and had the privilege of watching curious little seals bop up and down and swim in for a closer look at us.
Marvel in the islands rich wildlife on a Boat Trip
Explore Skye from the sea with one of the local Boat tours, I would recommend Sea Skye Tours who show you the best of Skye with their local knowledge and fast Rib Boat. They offer a range of tours.
Take a whisky tour at the Talisker Whiskey Distillery
Based on the isle of Skye, set on the shores of Loch Harport in the village of Carbost, the Talisker Distillery is the oldest working distillery on the Island. I don't love whisky - but my partner does and it is always interesting to learn something new, even if I did have to hold my breath and swallow.
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