Isle of Skye Guide: Best Things to do on Isle of Skye, Scotland

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Isle of Skye Guide: The best things to do on this beautiful island in Scotland!

If you’re planning a trip to the Isle of Skye, yay!

If you’re following my 7 day Scotland road trip, the chances are you’re stopping off at the Isle of Skye.

The Isle of Skye is the largest and most northerly of the Inner Hebrides islands, the island only stretches over only a mere 50 miles.

If it’s your first time in Scotland, it’s one of the best stops on your road trip.

Known for its folklore legends, mythical fairies and a constant dramatic fog in the distance, there’s an enchanting feel that seems to hang over the entire island.

It’s pretty special!

When I started writing a blog post about the Isle of Skye, I was just scrolling through my old photos for about 30 minutes.

It made me remember just how wonderful it is, and how much it has to offer when you visit Scotland!

Plus, it’s one of the best places to spot highland cows in Scotland, which in my eyes, is a win in itself. Plus, visit one of the most epic places in the country and do the incredible Old Man of Storr walk.

Visiting Scotland? Check out my other posts!

• 7 Day Scotland Road Trip Route & Itinerary (2022)
• Where to Find Highland Cows in Scotland: Highland Cattle
• Fairy Pools Skye Walk: Everything You Need to Know (2022)
• 13 BEST Things to do in Aviemore (+ Travel Guide!)
• Old Man of Storr Walk Guide: Isle of Skye, Scotland

Isle of Skye Guide

How to get to the Isle of Skye

You can either get to the Isle of Skye via the Mallaig ferry, which is located towards the south of the island, or by car via the Skye Bridge which is located to the east of the island.

The ferry costs around £15 each way, whereas the bridge is free. 

You will want to pre-book your ferry, as they can be fully booked during peak times.

The ferries start at around 6am, so you can set your alarm and head out early.

🗺️ My Scotland must-have: A portable power bank. Don’t get caught short and lose your phone battery whilst travelling! If you’re solo travelling or on a road trip, you’re going to rely on it to get you from A to B.

How long do you need on the Isle of Skye?

If you’re following my 7 day Scotland road trip, I would recommend at least a day and a half on the Isle of Skye. If you’re not using this guide, keep reading.

Isle of Skye is one of the most beautiful places in Scotland. From the moment you set eyes on the island, you’ll be mesmerized by its natural beauty.

But how long do you need to truly experience all that Isle of Skye has to offer?

Well, that all depends on what you want to do while you’re here.

Isle of Skye is jam-packed with activities and attractions, so it’s easy to spend days (or even weeks!) exploring everything the island has to offer.

If you want to experience Isle of Skye at a leisurely pace, I’d recommend spending at least 3-5 days here.

This will give you plenty of time to check out the main sights, go for some hikes, and relax in one of the island’s many cafés or pubs.

But if you want to really make the most of your time on Isle of Skye, I recommend spending at least a week here. This will give you enough time to truly explore the island, without feeling rushed.

You’ll also have plenty of time to enjoy some of Isle of Skye’s more off-the-beaten-path!

When to visit the Isle of Skye

While the Isle of Skye is gorgeous year-round, the best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny.

However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time of year, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, you may want to plan your trip for a colder season instead.

Regardless of when you go, Isle of Skye is sure to take your breath away!

Where to stay on the Isle of Skye

There are plenty of wild camping spots, Airbnb’s and hotels on the Isle of Skye. It really depends on if you’re doing a road trip and van life, or looking to stay somewhere a bit fancier.

If you are looking for a campsite, check out the Camping and Caravan Club for great facilities and an amazing evening view of the sunset. We stayed here during our road trip and absolutely loved it.

If you are looking for an Airbnb or hotel, the Portree area is popular due to the sheer amount of restaurants, bars and pubs. 

Portree is known as the ‘capital’ of the Isle of Skye, so there are plenty to choose from!

🗺️ Booking hostels? I always use Hostelworld as their deals are usually the cheapest. They also have reviews from other backpackers, and explain the vibe of the hostel (party, chill, social…) so you know exactly what you’re booking.

Can you wild camp on the Isle of Skye?

Yes! Wild camping is legal on the Isle of Skye. This means you can find a spot, pull up and settle in for the night.

There are some great locations all over the island, just drive around and find the best location for you. 

TOP TIP: The midges during the summer months are horrendous, so don’t park too close to a body of water or you WILL be swarmed!

🗺️ When we were travelling Scotland, we used Take The Slow Road by Martin Dorey to help us decide on our next destination. If you’re looking for more recommendations of Scottish wonders, I also recommend this Scotland guide.

Best Things to do on the Isle of Skye

1) Visit the Isle of Skye fairy pools

One of the most popular and best things to do on the Isle of Skye is to pay a visit to the fairy pools.

Situated at the foot of the Black Cuillin mountains, you’ll find the naturally made crystal blue pools, surrounded by rocky cliff edges and small ridges for you to dip your toes in (or jump into, as I did!)

If you’re brave enough to face the freezing waters (even in summer, they are freezing), you can find a spot to jump in and go for a swim. 

The fairy pools are suitable for all ages, but they do require a 30-40 minute walk to reach.

Some of the ground is uneven and bumpy, with several stepping stones to jump across streams. Unfortunately, the fairy pools are not suitable for wheelchair users or buggies. 

Plan for around half a day at the fairy pools, or longer if you want to sit and have lunch or a few drinks near the water. 

It’s a perfect activity on the Isle of Skye!

I’ve written a guide all about visiting the fairy pools, which you can check out here!

Fairy Pools Skye Walk: Everything You Need to Know (2022)

🗺️ If you’re going to be swimming in the sea or lochs, I’d recommend getting a Syncwire Waterproof Case. I’ve had mine for a few years and I’m able to swim underwater, take photos and videos and keep my belongings safe when I’m in the water!

2) Hike the Old Man of Storr

One of the most famous walks to do on the Isle of Skye is the short climb up to the Old Man of Storr.

The Storr itself was created by a large ancient landslide and has left behind one of the world’s most famous landscapes. Even if you haven’t been there before, you may have seen it on TV or on the Internet, as it’s shape is pretty famous!

Hike up to the rock of the ‘old man’s face’ and look out to views of the surrounding lochs and the rest of the Isle of Skye.

It was one of our favourite views in Scotland!

The walk takes just under 2 hours to complete a round trip and can be done by anyone with an average level of fitness.

You can read all about the hike in my Old Man of Storr guide!

If you’re still booking flights, I recommend checking lastminute.com for the latest deals. Recently, we were able to save £50 on our flights just by booking through Last Minute!

3) Spot Highland cows!

Yes, I have included Highland cows in this Isle of Skye guide.

All over the island are opportunities to spot some of these Scottish mascot beauties.

Not to be confused with a regular cow, the highland cow has a shaggy face with large horns on either side of its head (and the calves are even cuter with an even shaggier face). 

I loved spotting Highland cows so much, that I wrote a guide about where to find them all over Scotland! You can check it out here 😀

4) Visit Fairy Glen

A lesser-known enchantment on the Isle of Skye, but one that has a well-earned spot on this list.

In the mystical rolling hills of Fairy Glen, you’ll find rocks formed by an ancient landslide.

Oh, and don’t forget to keep your eye out for any flying mythical creatures!

Located on the Trotternish Peninsula, you can combine a trip to the Fairy Glen with some of the other attractions on the island, such as the Old Man of Storr or Kilt Rock. 

If you want the Glen to yourself, arrive early in the morning and you’ll be alone to enjoy it’s magic! 

Visiting the Glen is free, and is suitable for all ages and abilities. 

5) Take in Views of Kilt Rock

Not too far from Fairy Glen, is the 90m tall Kilt Rock.

A name given to the cliff edge due to its coloured basalt columns looking slightly similar to a Scottish kilt (if you squint your eyes, you can kind of see where they’re coming from)/

Adjoining the rock is Mealt Falls, a dramatic waterfall that reaches a high of 55m from the clifftop to the sea. It’s really quite a sight!

You don’t need very long at Kilt Rock, and can even stop by en route to your next destination. 

6) Dip your toes in the turquoise waters of Claigan Coral Beach

I’m a sucker for a good beach in the UK, and Claigan Coral is no exception.

Expect white coral beaches that rival the Whitsundays, and crystal clear turquoise waves overlooking Camas Ban. 

If the sky is clear, it’s possible to see right across Loch Dunvegan and further to the Outer Hebrides. If you’re lucky, you may even see seals or sea otters playing in the water. 

A day out is perfect for any kind of visitor, and there are even some rock pools further along the beach for kids to seek out some marine creatures. 

7) Visit Dunvegan Castle

If you fancy a bit of history, take a drive down to Dunvegan Castle about a mile north of the town of Dunvegan.

Dating back 800 years, this popular tourist attraction allows you to wander the grounds of the castle, view the famous Fairy Flag, and take a stroll through the castle gardens. 

There are also seal boat trips from the castle if you want to spot some of the creatures in their natural habitat.  

If I’m honest, I don’t think the castle warrants much time for your visit, and you can probably see as much as you want in under an hour.

If you’re looking to gain a bit of extra time whilst on the Isle of Skye, I’d say miss this one.

8) Hike the Quiraing walk

If you’re an avid walker, you’re not going to want to miss out on the Quiraing walk.

As you pass through one of the most spectacular walks in Scotland, you will pass high cliffs, hidden plateaus, and rock pinnacles created by a large landslip.

The Quiraing walk begins at the car park and will take you on a 6.8km loop around the mountains.

It is suitable for most adults with an average level of fitness. 

TOP TIP: Do not attempt the Quiraing walk in bad weather. There are some high cliff edges that would not be suitable to visit in misty or windy conditions!

9) Eat fish and chips in Skye’s capital, Portree

Portree, the capital of the Isle of Skye, is the most popular area to stay in and has the most restaurants, bars and pubs.

Along the harbour, you’ll spot the colourful houses which make a perfect photo opportunity and look like they’re straight off a postcard.

Being a fishing town, there are lots of independent fish and chip shops.

Grab some food and sit on a bench, admiring the views of the fishing boats, waves and surrounding mountains. 

Isle of Skye Guide: FAQs

What should you not miss on the Isle of Skye?

In my opinion, the Old Man of Storr walk and the fairy pools are unmissable. 

🗺️ My Scotland must-have: A wheelie backpack! Check out my favourite, the Osprey 65L wheeled backpack. It’s dreamy for long-term trips and when you need more than a carry-on!

What can you do on the Isle of Skye?

Hiking, walking, eating, sunbathing, exploring, adventuring – you name it, it’s got it!

The Isle of Skye really is the land of magic and adventure, and it will really bring out your inner child believing in little flying fairies again.

🗺️ My Scotland must-have: Solo travelling but still want to take photos?  📸 I’ve found the most perfect adjustable tripod that’s lightweight and easy to set up (you don’t want any awkward moments alone, I know how it feels!)

How long does it take to drive around Skye?

The entire island only stretches across 50 miles, so to drive around the island would take you a couple of hours.

🗺️ My Scotland must-have: Well, it’s a little more advanced, but if you want to take high-quality photos, make sure you invest in a good camera. This doesn’t have to be thousands of pounds, and our favourite is the Canon EOS 6D Mark II.

Is the Isle of Skye expensive?

We found the Isle of Skye to suit a mid-range traveller.

It really depends on how much you’re prepared to rough it, and how much you want luxury accommodation.

All of the activities we did on the Isle of Skye were free, we wild camped and even when we stayed on a campsite, it cost under £30. Cheap as chips!

🗺️ My Scotland must-have: Don’t forget an additional memory card and hard drive for saving your photos on the road!

Is the Isle of Skye worth it? 

Yes! It’s absolutely stunning.

We love the Isle of Skye, mainly because of its ridiculous beautiful landscapes and fun things to do. It’s definitely worth a visit when travelling Scotland!

🗺️ My world travel must-have: Whilst out during the day, I use a tote bag to hold my belongings like my camera, notebook, purse and Microfibre towel. It’s easier to pack away than a big beach bag, and can be neatly tucked away when you don’t need it!

Isle of Skye Guide: In a Nutshell

So there you have it!

A quick guide to some of the best things to see and do on the Isle of Skye.

Have you been? Are you planning a trip? Let me know in the comments or on Instagram – I’d love to hear from you.

Happy travelling!

Jennie 😀 x

Other Scotland posts:

• Isle of Skye Guide: Best Things to do on Isle of Skye, Scotland
• Where to Find Highland Cows in Scotland: Highland Cattle
• 7 Day Scotland Road Trip Route & Itinerary (2022)
• Fairy Pools Skye Walk: Everything You Need to Know (2022)
• 13 BEST Things to do in Aviemore (+ Travel Guide!)
• Old Man of Storr Walk Guide: Isle of Skye, Scotland

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