Our 10 must-sees on Scotland’s Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye rises up in the distance, between the sea and the Scottish clouds. Lovers of wide open spaces venture there to enjoy the moment, as if cut off from the world. It’s one of Scotland’s most mythical islands!
Known as the Isle of Mists, the Isle of Skye lives up to its name when the fog fills the landscape and the moors become mystical and bewitching. During your trip to Scotland, make a stopover on this island of indescribable beauty in the Inner Hebrides.
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10 must-sees on the Isle of Skye
Neist Point Lighthouse, at the end of the world
On the west coast of the Isle of Skye, at the end of a single road track, stands Neist Point Lighthouse. A real picture-postcard landscape, Neist Point Lighthouse is an iconic Scottish landmark.
The lighthouse was commissioned in 1909. Surrounded by wild moorland and sheep, the scenery is breathtaking. Take a staircase along the cliff and the path that will lead you to the lighthouse. Don’t forget your hiking boots and windbreaker for the walk… At the end of an overhang of land, stands this white and black lighthouse.
Neist Point Lighthouse is also a good vantage point for observing Scotland’s marine and wild fauna: whales, dolphins, porpoises and sharks, among others.
Old Mann of Storr, guardian of the island
If you’re a keen hiker, don’t miss the climb up to the Old Man of Storr. We advise you to set off early in the morning or late in the day to really take in the sights and avoid the crowds. The hike is slightly uphill, so bring good shoes to avoid slipping in the rain. After the effort, the comfort… At the top, the panorama of the Isle of Skye is incredible!
The view takes in the lochs, the sea, the moors and the island’s peaks. At the foot of Scotland’s most famous monolith, capture the moment with your camera. The 50-metre-high Old Man of Storr represents the face of an old man.
The legendary old bridge at Sligachan
Sligachan Bridge is a well-known photo spot for travellers, in the small village of the same name. This old bridge over the River Sligachan is a real film set.
With its old stones and the Cuillin mountains in the background, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another era.
But above all, Sligachan Bridge is the subject of Scottish legends handed down from generation to generation… Stories of fairies and witches are said to have taken place in this Scottish setting. Legend has it that if you dip your face in the water and lie there for 7 seconds, you will have eternal beauty…
The colourful village of Portree
On the edge of a tranquil bay lies the village of Portree. In the 19th century, Portree was just a fishing village, before becoming a more popular town today. Its name is a tribute to King James V of Scotland, who came here in 1540 to unite the various clans on the island.
Stroll along its harbour and colourful houses and enjoy the magnificent views of the hills surrounding the town! Portree is the island’s main town, making it a good starting point for visiting Skye.
Quiraing: an unforgettable walk
Get your hiking gear ready for a magical adventure through the rock formations of the Quiraing! Allow around 3 to 5 hours to hike through exceptional landscapes that will take you to another planet. Hike as far as La Prison, columns of rock set up along the coast.
From a certain angle, these rock formations resemble the shape of a medieval fortress. If you’re hiking at sunset, head to La Table for a memorable viewpoint. On this grassy plateau, you’ll be surrounded by stone towers, a truly striking backdrop.
Fairy Glens, the land of fairies
The Isle of Skye is a place of legends and fairies… Discover Fairy Glens, the kingdom of fairies, where mounds and fairy circles dot the landscape.
Don’t forget your camera to capture the scenery. Between small green hills and Scottish lochans (ponds), immerse yourself in the magic of Fairy Glens!
Claigan Coral Beach
Its white sands and turquoise waters make Coral Beach one of Scotland’s most beautiful beaches. Amid the rolling hills of Scotland, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the Caribbean.
Keep a close eye on the surrounding area, and you may even come across colonies of seals around this surprising spot… An essential stop-off on your road trip to Scotland!
Fairy Pools, waterfalls and natural pools
The Fairy Pools is one of the most beautiful natural spots on the Isle of Skye. At the foot of the Cuillin Mountains, discover natural pools lined with waterfalls. A true spectacle of nature! Don’t forget your camera to capture some beautiful photos of the landscape.
The colour of the water in the pools changes according to the light, with hues ranging from turquoise to green-grey. In summer, the bravest swim in the cold waters of the Fairy Pools. If you want to feel alone in the world in the heart of this unique landscape, we advise you to come early in the morning or early in the evening.
Dunvegan Castle, stronghold of the MacLeod clan
Dunvegan Castle is a fortress on the Isle of Skye, still inhabited by its clan, the MacLeods. Inside the castle, visit the first floor and admire the last fragment of the Fairy Flag of Dunvegan, a magical flag that has protected the clan for centuries. Afterwards, we recommend a stroll around the superb gardens.
You can even take a boat trip to see the seals that live on the surrounding islets…
The Talisker distillery, on the banks of the loch
The mountain ranges in the background, Harport Loch in the foreground and the Talisker distillery in the distance. In the Nordic language, Talisker means ‘craggy rock’ and is reminiscent of the mountains on the Isle of Skye. The Talisker distillery was founded in 1830 by two brothers, Kenneth MacAskill and Hugh MacAskill.
At the time, whisky was transported by boat to the Scottish mainland. It’s the water from the surrounding hills that makes Talisker whisky so special.
Take a tour of the distillery and find out more about its eventful past. Finish your visit with a tasting of Talisker Storm.
Our team’s favourite
Kilt Rock and its cliffs
For breathtaking scenery on the Isle of Skye, head for Kilt Rock! Here you can admire the magnificent Mealt Falls, over 55 metres high. These waterfalls are a real picture-postcard landscape that will take your breath away.