Some would say that the Isle of Skye is the jewel in the crown of the Scottish Highlands, and with the opening of the bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh over to Skye in 1995, it has become a popular tourist hotspot. To explore the island fully, you need 3 days at least; however, if you only have a day to spare, this article will explain how to visit some of the main atrractions in a short time.
With Distant Hills Guest House being situated in Spean Bridge, otherwise known as the crossroads of the Highlands, we are perfectly situated for a day trip to the Isle of Skye. We are an hour away from Mallaig, where you can catch the ferry to the Isle of Skye, or a 90 minute drive to the bridge. If you are planning a day trip to Skye, unless you are accommodated close to Mallaig, we would recommend going over the bridge as this will give you maximum flexibility and time. Skye is a bigger island than you first think, and traffic can be slow in places especially in peak season.
Eilean Donan Castle
Travelling via the bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh, sight-seeing options begin 8 miles before you even reach the island itself. Scotland’s most photographed castle, the magnificent Eilean Donan Castle situated at the confluence of three sea lochs: Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh and is less than a kilometre from the village of Dornie. You can pay to take a tour of the castle or you might simply stop to take a few photos of this iconic landmark.
Portree
Once over the bridge to the Isle of Skye, follow road signs to the small town of Portree (Portree i Centre). This is a good place to stop for cafes and restaurants, and while you’re in Portree, take a walk down to the harbour to see the coloured houses. One of our favourite places to visit when we’re in Portree is the Cullin Hills Hotel (IV51 9QU), which is on the outskirts of the town. You can relax with a drink and enjoy the stunning views overlooking Portree Bay and towards the Cuillin mountain range.
Old Man of Storr
From Portree, continue driving north towards Staffin and after 10 minutes, you will reach the Old Man of Storr (IV51 9HX) which is a huge rock pinnacle on the Trotternish Ridge, and one of Scotland’s most iconic images. There is a large car park here and you can walk up a good path to take a closer look at these spectacular rock formations. The views from this location over the Sound of Raasay are simply breathtaking. Legend has it that the Old Man of Storr was a giant who resided on the Trotternish Ridge. When he was buried, his thumb (the ‘Old Man’) remained partially above ground.
Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
After leaving the Old Man of Storr, continue north towards Staffin. After approximately 15 mins, you will see a signpost on your right for Kilt Rock (IV51 9JE). The rock formation of these cliffs looks very similar to a pleated kilt, hence the name. However, the rock is not necessarily the main feature at this site. Most people visit Kilt Rock to marvel at the impressive 90 metre waterfall which plummets from the top of the cliffs straight into the sea. It is often very windy on this part of Skye, so it’s wise to have an extra layer with you.
The Quiraing
Another iconic landscape spectacle on the Isle of Skye is the Quiraing (IV51 9LA), which is an enormous area of enormous landslip created over millions of years and still moves a few centimetres each year. It’s the largest of its kind in the UK.
From Kilt Rock, continue north passing through the small villages of Staffin and Stenscholl. From here, keep looking out for a left turn onto a minor roads which should be signposted to the Quiraing and Uig. We missed it the first time as the signposts were not so obvious. The road will start climbing with some twists and turn but before long, you’ll reach a large paid car park. From here, you can do a circular walk through the Quiraing landscape which involves a fairly steep up and down section towards the end, or you can walk so far along and turn around and retrace your steps. For more details about this walk on The Quiraing click here.
The Fairy Pools
Depending on how much time you have left, one last place we recommend visiting are the Fairy Pools (IV47 8TA), which are a natural waterfall phenomenon on Glen Brittle. From the Quiraing, continue along the road to Uig and from there, take the A87 through Portree to Sligachan. From Sligachan, turn right following signs to Carbost and then towards Glenbrittle where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Cullin Mountains ahead of you.
From the car park, there is a well-signposted 20-minute walk alongside a beautiful river to the Fairy Pools. Don’t be tempted to turn back too early as the classic shot shown below is further along the path close to the head of the mountains. You’re likely to spot amateur and professional photographer at the spot and/or the odd person braving the freezing temperatures of the water!
Ideas for Another Time
These are just some of the tourist hotspots on the Isle of Skye taking in a relatively straightforward partial loop of the island. To do the island justice, you really do need to spend more than a day exploring other parts of island including Dunvegan Castle, the Talisker Distillery, Neist Point and Elgol.
If you have found this article about visiting the Isle of Skye useful, you can read more of our suggestions of things to do and places to visit in the Scottish Highlands here.
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