The Isle of Skye sounds so dreamy, doesn’t it? With magical locations, this tiny island packs a punch. There is so much to see and so little time! That’s why we have prepared our best guide to a 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary, so you know where to go in those 2 days.
With rugged landscapes, medieval castles, and legends, you might believe that fairies, mermaids, and giants have made this island their home. In this post, we explore the highlights which are:
- Old Man of Storr
- Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
- Fairy Glen
- Fairy Pools
- Neist Point Lighthouse
- Talisker Distillery
- Dunvegan Castle
And, we answer anything and (almost!) everything about the Isle of Skye such as the best times to visit, the languages that are spoken, the best areas to stay, and if you can see the Northern Lights from this beautiful island.
- Where is the Isle of Skye?
- What is there to do in Skye in 2 days?
- What is the best time to visit the Isle of Skye?
- Where are the best areas to stay in the Isle of Skye?
- Can you see the Northern Lights on the Isle of Skye?
- Is Isle of Skye worth visiting?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the Isle of Skye
Let’s start!
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Where is the Isle of Skye?
The Isle of Skye or Skye is one of the largest and most northernmost islands of the Inner Hebrides. In the south-central region, the Cuillin Hills dominate the landscape.
The earliest written record of the island appears on Roman sources such as the Ravenna Cosmography where the island is known as Scitis. In Ptolemy’s map, the island is referred to as Scetis.
In Norse sagas, the islands are referred to as Skíð while its traditional Gaelic name is An t-Eilean Sgitheanach which could mean “the winged isle”.
The island has a mild oceanic climate due to the influences of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream. The temperatures are generally cool throughout the year with May being the sunniest month.
Recommended Tours
From Edinburgh: 3-Day Isle of Skye, Highlands & Loch Ness
From Inverness: Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Tour
Isle of Skye and Highlands: 3-Day Guided Tour from Edinburgh
From Edinburgh: Orkney, Skye, and the Far North 8 Day Tour
History
Skye’s history dates back to the time the dinosaurs roamed the earth. Dinosaur fossils, as well as those of ammonites, belemnites, and gryphaea, have been found. The Dinosaur Museum at Staffin displays these fossils and dinosaur footprints found in that area.
Also in Staffin is the oldest archaeological site in Scotland, the An Corran. This is a Mesolithic hunter-gatherer site that dates back to the 7th millennium BC. On the uninhabited peninsula to the south of Cuillin, Rubha an Dùnain is a chambered cairn and an Iron Age Fort dates back to the 2nd and 3rd millennium BC.
The earliest known inhabitants of Skye were Pictish. Their legacy is the Brochs, which are built all over Scotland. No one knows why these Brochs were built as very little is known about this group.
The early Irish Annals record the struggles between the rival dynasties during the 7th and 8th centuries while the Norse culture, people, and language thrived from the 9th to 13th century.
The clans that were most powerful on Skye, post-Norse, were the Clan Macleod, Clan Macdonald of Sleat, and Clan Mackinnon. Dunvegan Castle is a remarkably well-preserved castle that has remained within the same clan since the 13th century.
By the late 18th century, kelp harvest was the major economic activity. However, cheap imports, famine, and Highland Clearances led to a mass migration to the New World, the Americas.
How do you get to the Isle of Skye?
There are several options to get to the Isle of Skye, although the best method would be either self-drive, rent a car, or join a tour.
Flight
The closest international airport is the Glasgow International Airport which is about 250 miles or a 5-hour drive to the Isle of Skye. The closes local airport is the Inverness Airport which is about 125 miles or a 3-hour drive to the Isle of Skye.
Drive
If you are coming from Edinburgh, the journey would take about 5-6 hours as it is about 235 miles from the Isle of Skye.
If you are driving from Glasgow, the distance is about 215 miles with plenty of places to stop on the way. For picturesque views, stop at the Eilean Donan Castle, the Loch Lomond, Glen Shiel, or Glencoe which is Scotland’s most historic glen.
The journey from Inverness is about 120 miles with the best route being from the A87, the A887, and A82 with stops along Loch Alsh, Eilean Donan Castle, Glen Shiel, Ivermoriston, and the west shores of Loch Ness.
Train
There are no train lines on the Isle of Skye. Hence, your best bet would be to take the Scott Rail Kyle Line from Inverness. The journey is about 3 hours and offers some of the most stunning views of the Scottish Highlands.
From Glasgow, take the train to the Mallaig station where you would then need to take the Caledonian Macbrayne ferry to Skye.
Bus
From Glasgow, take a direct Scottish Citylink bus from the Buchanan Bus Station to Portree Square on the Isle of Skye. The rate is about £48 ($63) per person.
What is there to do in Skye in 2 days?
Ideally, a short 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary would sufficiently cover the highlights. Our guide begins and ends in Portree. As each of these sites can get crowded, we recommended arriving early to beat the crowd.
Day 1: The Northern Loop
The northern peninsula of the Isle of Skye is known for its unique rock features such as Kilt Rock which resembles the pleats on a kilt, Quiraing is a series of rock pinnacles with the Old Man of Storr lying further south of the rock pillars.
On Day 1 of our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary, our highlights included the Old Man of Storr which was the first site we visited. We ended our day by admiring the scenic views at the Sligachan Old Bridge.
Old Man of Storr
The first in our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary is the Old Man of Storr or The Storr. This landmark is 6.8 miles or a 15-minute drive from Portree. These iconic rocks are at the top of Troterrnish Ridge and can be viewed from the road as you approach it.
According to local legends, a giant once lived here and upon his death, his thumb or the “Old Man” was partially visible. At over 2,300 feet above the ground, the Old Man of Storr has magnificent views of the Sound of Raasay and the surrounding mainland.
How do you get to the Old Man of Storr?
Get onto the A855 road and continue north for 6.8 miles until you reach the Old Man of Storr car park.
How long does it take to walk up to the Old Man of Storr?
The path to the Old Man of Storr pinnacles can take between 45 minutes or 2-hours, depending upon your fitness level. The first stage of the hike is on broad gravel and cleared pine woodlands.
As you walk towards the top, the path narrows and is in poor condition. The path becomes muddy during rain. So, be careful of slipping and always watch your step as you make your way to the top.
The path is filled with uneven rock steps and the path becomes steep as you arrive at the foot of the Old Man of Storr.
Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
The second in our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary is the Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls. These falls are about 8.5 miles or a 12-minute drive from The Storr. It is 26.3 miles or a 26-minute drive from Portree.
Kilt Rock is a beautiful 90-meter rock that resembles a Scottish Kilt. The sea cliff has a base of basalt columns that form the pleats. The Mealt Falls add to the scenic beauty of this site.
Where is Kilt Rock on Skye?
If you are coming from the Old Man of Storr, continue straight onto A855 until you reach Loch Mealt. Turn right and continue until you reach the Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls Viewpoint. The road becomes uneven as you reach the viewpoint.
Why should I visit Mealt Falls?
The Mealt Falls is especially spectacular as the waterfall plunges 55 meters from the cliff onto the Atlantic Ocean.
How did Mealt Falls get its name?
Mealt Falls gets its name from the freshwater lake, Loch Mealt that feeds the falls.
Quiraing
The third in our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary is Quiraing. This otherworldly landslip is about 4.9 miles or a 12-minute drive from the Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls.
There are three notable areas in this area. The Needle is the 120-feet landmark pinnacle which is the remnant of the ancient landslide. The Table is flat grasslands with views of Torridon Hills and the mountains of Wester Ross.
The last area is the Prison which looks like a medieval fortified tower when viewed at the right angle.
Can you drive through the Quiraing?
Yes, you can drive through the Quiraing. However, this drive is not recommended for new drivers due to low visibility during misty weather. The road has a gradient of 14% and is extremely narrow.
Is Quiraing a Munro?
No, Quiraing is not a Munro. A Munro is a Scottish term that means mountains that are over the height of 3,000 feet. The term was named after Sir Hugh Munro who created the Munro’s Tables that lists the highest peak and lesser peaks which are known as the Munro Tops.
The Quiraing is the result of Britain’s largest landslide that began during the Jurassic Period, about 175 million years ago. At that time, Skye was teeming with sea creatures and was submerged in the shallow seas.
As sediment particles compacted and water was squeezed out, crystals began to form and these crystals cemented the rocks together. For Skye, it was a mix of limestone, shales, and sandstones.
About 60 million years ago, the land was exposed as the sea retreated. The monumental landmass began to tear apart into what is now North America and Greenland. This lead to stress on Earth’s surface and about 10 million years ago, the enormous weight took a toll on the sedimentary rocks below.
Interestingly, only the Quiraing slip continues to move to this day with the road at its base, near the settlement of Flodigarry requiring repairs every year.
Duntulm Castle
The fourth in our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary is Dultulm Castle. This ruined castle is 8.3 miles or a 20-minute drive from Quiraing. These ruins which were once the seats of the chiefs for the Clan Macdonald of Sleat are on the north coast of Trotternish.
Although the castle was built during the 14th and 15th centuries, it is believed that a prehistoric broch, the Dun David once stood here.
Ghosts of Duntulm
As with any ancient site, Duntulm Castle has ghost stories of its own. The first ghost is that of the 9th chief, Donald Gorm. His apparition was seen drinking and brawling with his spectral companions.
Another specter is the nursemaid who dropped a baby from one of the windows. Her terrifying screams can be heard as the woman was murdered for reprisal.
The last ghost is the weeping ghost of Margaret. Margaret was the sister of the MacLeod of Dunvegan who was married to one of the MacDonalds. She is believed to have lost an eye in an accident.
Her husband threw her out and sent her back to Dunvegan on a one-eyed horse, accompanied by a one-eyed servant, and a one-eyed dog.
Who lived in Duntulm Castle?
Donald Gorm, the 9th Chief of the MacDonald Clan was lived in Duntulm Castle. He repaired the castle, maintained the castle, and added a second tower. The MacDonalds stay at Duntulm until 1732 when Sir Alexander MacDonald built a new house at Monkstadt.
Fairy Glen
The fifth in our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary is the Fairy Glen. This landmark is about 10 miles or a 22-minute drive from Duntulm Castle. A Glen is from the Irish and Scottish Gaelic term “gleann” which means a long and narrow valley that is bounded by concave slopes.
Fairy Glen is near Sheader and Balnacnoc on the Trotternish Peninsula. Because of its mystical aura, local legend mentions that this is the dwelling place of fairies, hence the name, Fairy Glen. The most recognizable feature of Fairy Glen is Castle Ewen.
How long is the walk to Fairy Glen?
The Fairy Glen Circular is a 1-mile loop easy trail that takes you through grassy canonical hills. This trail is quiet and peaceful and is best done during the early hours of the day. The parking fee costs £2 ($2.70) and has limited spots.
Is the Fairy Glen natural?
Yes, the rock formations, hills, and scattered ponds are all-natural. The round stone formations which you see are considered vandalism by the locals who spend their winter undoing them.
Why is it called the Fairy Glen?
It is called Fairy Glen simply because it feels magical and otherworldly and that only fairies could live here.
Is Fairy Glen worth visiting?
Yes, although it is lesser known that the Fairy Pools, Fairy Glen is worth visiting. Read According to Legend, Fairies Inhibit Scotland’s Isle of Skye, Especially In These Locations, and Explore The Fairy Glen to know more.
Sligachan Old Bridge
The sixth in our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary is the Sligachan Old Bridge. This bridge is about 25 miles or a 36-minute drive from Fairy. Sligachan is a small settlement that is at the junction of Portree, Dunvegan, and Broadford.
Although this bridge is not in use and is meant for pedestrians and cyclists, the waters below it have a legend attached to it.
It is believed that by dipping your face in the water, you will gain eternal beauty. Also, you are to allow the water on your face to dry naturally and not wipe it off.
How old is the Sligachan Bridge?
The bridge was built between 1810 and 1818 which makes it about 204 years old.
Read 13 of Scotland’s Most Incredible Bridges and Viaducts to know more.
Day 2: The Best For Last
On Day 2 of our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary, we have saved the best places for our last day. Be warned, you may need an extra day to see each of these places comfortably, at your own pace.
Fairy Pools
The seventh in our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary are the Fairy Pools. These iconic pools are found on Glen Brittle and sit at the foot of the Black Cuillin mountains. The vivid blue waters are the perfect place for a picnic as these pools, waterfall, and streams are swimmable.
It is best to swim in these waters in summer when the weather is warmer. The waters are so clear that on a sunny day, you can see the moss at the bottom of the streams and pools.
Can you drink from the Fairy Pools?
Yes, the crystal clear waters are drinkable. However, the waters are cold, so make sure to bring along a towel to keep yourself warm.
Why are the fairy pools called the Fairy Pools?
There are no legends associated with these pools. It could have been named Fairy Pools are the areas surrounding the pools have a magical and mystical aura to it, leaving many to believe that maybe, fairies are having a fun dip in these pools.
How long is the walk from the car park to the Fairy Pools?
The Fairy Pools Hike is described as an “easy” hike that is suitable for all levels. This out and back aren’t heavily marked and you may have to hop over some stones to get to the other sections. The parking fee costs £2 ($2.70) and has limited spots.
These pools are part of the 13 Amazing International Destinations For Gorgeous Scenery In 2022 and These Hidden Gems In Scotland Will Have You Rethinking Edinburgh to know more.
Talisker Distillery
The eighth in our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary is Talisker Distillery. This distillery is 5.1 miles or a 15-minute drive from the Fairy Pools. Set on the shores of Loch Harport, this distillery is the oldest on the Isle of Skye.
It was established in 1830 by Hugh and Kenneth MacAskill who opened this distillery in 1831 after acquiring the lease for Talisker House from the Clan MacLeod.
Fun Fact
Robert Louis Stevenson mentioned “the king o’ drinks, as I conceive it, Talisker, Islay, or Glenlivet” in his poem, “The Scotsman’s Return From Abroad”. Talisker was Stevenson’s favorite whiskey.
In 2007, at the World Whiskies Award, the Talisker 18 Year Old won the “Best Single Malt In The World” award.
Talisker is featured on Forbes My Top 10 Whiskies Of 2021 and CNA Luxury’s 8 Classic Single Malts That Every Whisky Enthusiast Should Know.
Does Talisker Distillery have a shop?
Yes, it does have a retail shop within its premises.
Talisker Bay
The ninth in our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary is Talisker Bay Beach. This beach is about 4.8 miles or a 13-minute drive from Talisker Distillery. This small beach on the west coast of Skye is characterized by stones and impressive cliffs.
Can you swim at Talisker Bay?
Yes, Talisker Bay is perfect for wild swimming, if you can take the chills, that is. The sand can be warm on sunny days, so make sure to pack your flip-flops.
Are there sandy beaches on Skye?
Yes, there are a few white sandy beaches on Skye. These are Aird of Sleat or Camas Daraich Beach, Claingan Coral Beach, Staffin Beach, and Glenbrittle Beach.
Dun Beag Broch
The tenth in our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary is the Dun Beag Broch. A broch is an iron age round stone tower that is only found in Scotland. Dun Beag is about 15.5 miles or a 30-minute drive from Talisker Bay.
Dun Beag was built around 2,500 years ago and was occupied until the early 1900s based on medieval coins that were recovered on site. The interiors of the broch are so well-preserved that the door checks to hold the wooden door in place are visible, even today.
There are no entrance fees to visit and Dun Beag Broch is open all year round. After making your way to the top, you can rest and admire the views of Loch Harport and Loch Braccadale.
Dun Beag in Scottish means “small fort” is the easiest broch to access when compared against Dun Mor or the “big fort” that is half a mile away.
Neist Point Lighthouse
The eleventh in our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary is the Neist Point Lighthouse. Neist Point is about 18.4 miles or a 35-minute drive from Dun Beag Broch. This lighthouse is another iconic structure on Skye as it sits on Skye’s most westerly tip.
This lighthouse was designed by David Alan Stevenson who built 26 other lighthouses around Scotland.
How long does it take to walk to Neist Point?
The walk to Neist Point is about 45 minutes with no stops and covers a distance of 2.2 kilometers (1.3 miles). There is only one path up and down and is not suited for all weather conditions.
You should not attempt the walk when it is extremely windy and during low visibility as the walk takes you towards the cliff to view the lighthouse.
How old is the Neist Point Lighthouse?
The lighthouse was first lit on 1st November 1909, which makes it 113 years old this year.
Is the Neist Point Lighthouse still working?
Yes, the lighthouse is still working and is operated remotely from the Northern Lighthouse Board headquarters in Edinburgh.
Dunvegan Castle
The twelfth in our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary is the Dunvegan Castle and Gardens. This castle is about 12 miles or a 30-minute drive from Neist Point Lighthouse. The castle sits on a rock that overlooks Loch Dunvegan.
The castle was built during the 13th century was developed over centuries. It was opened to the public by Sir Reginald MacLeod in 1933 for two days a week for charitable purposes.
Does anyone live in Dunvegan Castle?
Yes, the current family members of the MacLeod Clan. While some of the apartments on the lower levels are opened to the public, the rooms on the top floor remain as the private residence of the family.
Can you walk around Dunvegan Castle?
Yes, you can walk around Dunvegan Castle and its gardens. You may spend at least 2 hours or more as you walk through the walled gardens, the woodland park, or the beach outside.
How much does it cost to go to Dunvegan Castle?
The entrance fee for the castle and gardens is £14 ($19) for adults, £9 ($12) for children between the ages of 5 to 15 years, £11 ($15) for students, older persons, and groups with a minimum of 10 persons. A family ticket for 2 adults and 4 children is £35 ($45).
If you want to access the gardens only, the prices are £12 ($16) for adults, £7 ($10) for children, £9 ($12) for students, older persons, and groups with a minimum of 10 persons.
The Fairy Flag of Dunvegan
Am Bratach Sith or the Fairy Flag of Dunvegan is possibly Skye’s most famous symbol of myth and magic. The flag is MacLeod’s most treasured relic that dates back to the 4th century.
The legend goes that a MacLeod chief once fell in love with a fairy princess. The Fairy King who was worried for his daughter agreed to her pleas to marry the man she loved. The Fairy King granted her wish, with the condition that she returned to the fairy realm forever, after a year and a day.
On the day of her return, the princess was now a mother. She told her grieving husband to never make their child cry and they parted at the Fairy Bridge. Several months passed and during a feast, the nursemaid who looked after the boy left the boy alone in his room to observe the festivities that were happening outside.
The boy began to cry and soon enough, the nursemaid saw a young woman wrapping the infant in cloth, singing softly, and soothing him to calmness before disappearing.
When the boy grew up, he remembered his mother’s words and relayed them to his father. He said that the cloth was a talisman that could only be unfurled to save the clan three times, after which the flag would vanish and the clan would lose their powers forever.
The flag was first unfurled during the Battle of Spoiling Dyke against the MacDonald Clan and the second time during a plague. It has yet to be unfurled a third time and is on exhibit at Dunvegan Castle.
Claigan Coral Beach
The thirteenth and last in our 2 day Isle of Skye itinerary is Claigan Coral Beach. This beach is 3.4 miles or a 13-minute drive from Dunvegan Castle and Gardens. With stunning views of Camas Ban, it’s no wonder the locals call this place the “wee gem”.
Unlike its name, the black dots you see on the sand are not fossilized corals. They are, in fact, fossilized and sub-bleached algae.
The walk from Claigan car park to Coral Beach is about 2 miles which is just over 45 minutes. The walk passes through grassy pastures and you may encounter cattle and sheep, so, make sure your dog is on a leash here.
About 150 meters from the beach is the tidal island of Lampay. During low tide, you can walk across to the island.
Can you swim at Coral Beach Skye?
Yes, you can swim here. Better still, have a picnic with family and friends as you swim and relax with this gorgeous view. Read The Road To Skye to know more.
What is the best time to visit the Isle of Skye?
Spring is from March to May with highs ranging from 60°F (15.6°C) and lows of 47.1°F (8.4°C) with warmer temperatures expected later in May. This season is the best time for deals as it is these are the slowest months for tourism.
Summer is from June to August and is the busiest month for tourism as it is one of the best times to visit. Booking for lodgings is required. The weather is cool with the least precipitation. You can expect crowded places, long queues, and high prices where you go.
Fall is from September to November and is characterized by rain, snow, and overall chilly weather. Tourist arrivals are one of the slowest, so you can expect lower-priced accommodations during these months.
Winter is from December through February when it rains and snows with temperatures ranging from highs of 47.1°F (8.4°C) and lows of 43.9°F (6.6°C). These are the best times to visit for a snowy and magical experience of the Isle of Skye.
Where are the best areas to stay in the Isle of Skye?
Although you can a day trip to Skye from Edinburgh, that would be a waste as Skye has three places which are both picturesque and charming. After all, the Old Norse didn’t name Isle of Skye as “Cloud Island” for nothing.
Portree
This is the Isle of Skye’s largest capital town that is fringed by cliffs, a harbor and is the center for tourists who visit Skye. About 38% of the city’s population speak Scottish Gaelic.
The town was voted as one of The 20 Most Beautiful Villages In The UK and Ireland by Conde Nast Travelers. Our choices for the three best places to stay are:
Portree Hotel
This 24-room hotel built at the corner of Wentworth Street and overlooks Somerland Square is 147 years old. All rooms have a 32-inch television, tea/coffee making facilities, iron, and hair dryers.
And, an added convenience is that the main bus stop and taxi stands are at its doorstep. With a wood stove oven, the food from the Antlers Bar and Grill is scrumptious and at the same time, is both cozy and comfortable.
Cuillin Hills Hotel
This former shooting lodge once belonged to the MacDonald’s of Sleat sits on 15 acres of private grounds that overlook Portree Bay and the Cuillin mountain ranges. Each room comes with a complimentary fruit selection, free calls to the US, UK, and Europe, and a room safe.
Marmalade
A historic Manor House that dates back to 1817 and is set amongst landscaped gardens, Portree Bay, and the rocky hills of the Old Man of Storr that is 7 miles away. All rooms in this 34-room hotel are equipped with a Nespresso coffee maker, Bose sound systems, and free WiFi throughout.
The hotel is a 5-minute walk to Portree and with a bar that overlooks the bay, you can be assured of a relaxing stay here.
Broadford
Broadford is the second-largest town on the Isle of Skye and its name is derived from an Old Norse word which means “wide bay”. In the 1800s, Skye marble was extracted from the foot of the Hill of the Old Woman.
Broadford Hotel
This luxurious hotel was established in 1611 and is the home of the Drambuie whisky liquor. Each room is uniquely designed and styled and comes with complete facilities for a comfortable stay. The reviews include warm friendly reception, clean rooms, and very well-kept property.
The Cabins – House of Juniper
These 7 eco-friendly cabins come with an open plan kitchen and living area, dining area, and some cabins that are dog-friendly. The wooden flooring is made from recycled ocean plastic. These cabins are so cozy that it seems like a home away from home.
Broadford Lodges
These lodges come with an open plan kitchen and can comfortably fit 6 persons. Complimentary free parking and free WiFi are also provided. We love the fact that these cabins are bright, airy, and is equipped with a full-size fridge.
These lodges are 30-minutes from Portree and have easy access to shops and restaurants in Broadford. For the adventurous, you can rock climbing or meet the area’s local wildlife which includes otters, and on rare occasions, the Orca whales.
Can you see the Northern Lights on the Isle of Skye?
With zero light pollution, the best area to watch the Northern Lights on the Isle of Skye is Glendale, in the northern region. The three other Dark Sky Discovery Sites are in the northwest regions of Broadford, Waternish, Kylerhea, and Kinloch Forest. In the southwest regions, head to the Clan Donald Land at Armadale.
And, the best months to see the Northern Lights on the Isle of Skye?
It’s during the winter months when the nights are longer and darker. You may have to stay up through the night to watch the lights.
Is Isle of Skye worth visiting?
We’ve talked so much about the Isle of Skye and you may be wondering if a trip there is worth it. Here’s why we think it is worth it:
- Hiking Trails. The Skye Trail is a 79.6-mile unofficial route that takes you across the Trotternish Range and the passes beneath to shadow of the Cuillin Range. In this trail, you can experience beautiful coastal cliffs, steep trails, high drops, and pass through deserted villages that were destroyed during the Clearances.
- Dunvegan Castle. This castle has and still is the home of the Clan of Dunvegan. This family home is occupied by the MacLeod Lords for the past 8 centuries, continuously.
- Beaches. Despite having only 50 miles of coastline, Isle of Skye is home to unexplored beaches such as Staffin Beach for fossil hunters and Braes Beach with a view of the Gulf of Raasay, to name a few.
- The Aurora Borealis. Yes, you can catch the Aurora Borealis on the Isle of Skye. Come during the winter months and view the lights from several Dark Sky Observatories on the island.
- Traditional Scottish music and pubs. Head to the Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse, Stein Inn, or Edinbane Inn for the food and the drinks.
Read Is The Beautiful & Distant Isle of Skye Actually Worth Visiting, the 6 Reasons To Visit The Isle of Skye, and Now Is Exactly The Right Time To Head To The Isle of Skye to know more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the Isle of Skye
Do you still have questions on the Isle of Skye? Look no further, below are the answers to common questions about the Isle of Skye.
Is Isle of Skye a must?
Yes! If you are around Glasgow and Inverness, why not make that trip to the Isle of Skye?
With breathtaking scenery, picturesque fishing villages, and medieval castles, here are the 7 Things To Do On The Isle of Skye and the 12 Reasons Why You Should Visit Scotland’s Stunning Isle of Skye.
Where do you fly into for the Isle of Skye?
The nearest local airports are Benbecula which is 43 miles from Isle of Skye, Barra which is 50 miles away, and Stornoway which is 63 miles from the Isle of Skye.
However, the largest local airport is in Inverness which is 83 miles from the Isle of Skye. The closest international airport is in Glasgow which is 120 miles from Skye.
Does Skye have a beach?
Yes, Skye does have a beach. Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, and Camas Daraich are some of the sandy beaches in Skye. Other notable beaches include Glen Brittle, An Corran, and the Sound of Sleat Beach.
Do you get midges on the Isle of Skye?
Midges are small flies that resemble mosquitoes and are prevalent during the early hours of the morning and in the evening. The non-biting male midge arrives by mid-May while the biting female midges arrive early June and lasts until late September.
How much is the ferry to Skye?
The MV Glenachulish is the last manually operated turntable ferry in the world. The Skye Ferry usually runs from Easter until October, although dates may change. The 50-year old ferry operates seven days a week from 10 am to 6 pm, every 20 minutes.
The rate for a car with up to 4 passengers is £15 ($20) for a one-way trip. The return trip for the car is £25 ($34) while a motorbike is £10 ($14) one-way and £15 ($20) return. For foot passengers, the rates are £3 ($4) one-way and £4 ($5) return.
For cyclists with their bicycles, it is a £4 ($5) one-way and a £6 ($8) return. Campervans are charged at £25 ($34) and the rates for mini-buses starts at £25 ($34).
