The 5 best things to do on the Isle of Skye
There are far too many places to stop and admire the view as you travel around the little island on the west coast of Scotland, But stick to these 5 best things to do on the Isle of Skye, and you will not be disappointed.
We spent a total of five glorious days exploring the Isle of Skye, and it had to be one of our favourite places we visited on our recent trip to Scotland.
The Isle of Skye is the second largest of Scotland’s islands but in our opinion the most beautiful. A combination of jagged mountain peaks, deep lochs, and towering sea cliffs that has drawn the tourists to the island for centuries and it just keeps on getting busier.
Isle of Skye
The Old Man of Storr
We recommend visiting here, either at dusk or dawn for the least number of visitors. If you are fortunate with the weather, for the most awe inspiring scenery that will take your breath away. The hike up is manageable for a person with average fitness, and for that view, it is so worth it. At the time of our visit, solid stone steps were forming new paths up to the Storr, this is to salvage the area due to the large number of visitors each year.
We managed to snare an overnight spot in our camper not too far away from the carpark, which made the early morning hike (with coffee in hand) much less hassle. If you are without the convenience of a camper, Portree is only a 10 minute drive away, and has many B&Bs and places to stay.
The 5 best things to do on the Isle of Skye
Quiraing
This sometimes challenging hike will take you across otherworldly lands of jagged rocks, and spoil you with endless views in all directions. The whole walk is a loop around the rock, and should take around 2 hours to complete. Find your way to the carpark, cross the road and start to follow the path. After around 15 minutes you should start to spot some famous landmarks. One of which, the Needle being a 120 ft high pointing rock formation, which in our over eagerness, we rather stupidly breezed straight past.
Neist Point
Neist Point, on the far westerly side of Skye, is the best place to observe Dolphins, whales and many kinds of sea-birds, as well at the famous Neist Point Lighthouse. Tripod at the ready, the viewpoint from the top of the cliff will give you a perfect angle of the Neist point down to the lighthouse. If the weather is on your side, get there for sunset, and be rewarded with heavenly skies.
Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls
Serious photographers will be in their element at this famous spot, a drone is the perfect way to capture the magnificent 55-meter drop Mealt waterfall. Set against the backdrop of kilt like folds of basalt rock. We camped overnight in the car park to best catch the sunset and sunrise, which wasn’t overly busy, and insured the best spot for the morning.
The Fairy Pools
Spring water from the Cuillin Mountains cascade into pool, after pool, as you work your way up through the glen. It’s a picturesque landscape, and perfect for a short hike, on a warm day. Wild bathers have been known to take a dip in these crystal clear lagoons. We on the other hand arrived on a particularly wet day, the kind that no waterproof clothing can withstand. After getting the shots that we could, despite the continuing rain, we made our way back to our camper. Unfortunately the path over the stepping stones, were now fully submerged by the rushing river putting a stop our crossing. After a number of embarrassing failed attempts to make it over, a very kind couple took pity and lent us a pair of wellies so that we could both make it across safely. Lesson learnt, dress appropriately.
