EXPLORE

THE ISLE OF SKYE

Skye's greatest asset is the natural beauty and unspoilt landscape. Discover the island's rich cultural heritage and romantic history through its castles, museums, and visitor centres.

 

The town of Portree is a mere 10-minute walk away, with its colourful harbour and genuine village character where you can find the perfect hand-crafted souvenir for loved ones, or enjoy boat trips out from the harbour across the Sound.

 

  • Skye Guides
    Skye Guides
  • Skye Guides
    Skye Guides

    Based on the island, Skye Guides is a company of professional mountain guides established in 1995. You can book instruction and guiding for individual days, specific objectives or dedicated courses whatever your experience.
    Tel: 01471 822 116
    Email: mike@skyeguides.co.uk

    Website
  • Whitewave
    Whitewave
  • Whitewave
    Whitewave

    Activity sessions based in the north end of Skye. Families, groups and indiviuals welcome.
    All sessions must be pre-booked.
    Tel: 01470 542 414
    Email: info@white-wave.co.uk

    Website
  • Boat Trips
    Boat Trips
  • Boat Trips
    Boat Trips

    Seaflower *Recommended*


    Luxury sea tours operating daily out of Portree harbour. Visit the Isles of Raasay or Rona on the 40ft catamaran MV Seaflower. Including a delicious, locally caught seafood lunch served on board, all shellfish is provided by the skippers father and brother, who have fished the local waters for over 40 years.
    Tel: 07342 622727 https://seaflowerskye.com/

    Bella Jane Boat Trips


    The Isle of Skye's longest running, award winning boat trip from Elgol.
    Tel: 0800 731 3089 or 01471 866244 http://www.bellajane.co.uk/

    Misty Isle Boat Trips


    A warm highland welcome awaits you from Seumas MacKinnon and his crew on your trip to visit Loch Coruisk.
    Tel: 01471 866 288 http://mistyisleboattrips.co.uk/

    Seaprobe Atlantis


    Glass Bottom Boat Trips, Scotlands best semi-submersible glass bottom boat.
    Tel: 0800 980 4846 https://www.seaprobeatlantis.com/

    MV Stardust


    With our 1-2 hour trips down the Sound of Raasay you will see Skye from the sea, fabulous views and unbelievable wildlife.
    Tel: 07798 743858 https://www.skyeboat-trips.co.uk/

    Isle of Skye Seafari Experience

     

    Stunning boat tours from Portree on an exciting 12 seater rib. Tel: 07535312617 https://www.skyeseafariexperience.co.uk/index.html

     

    Website
  • Skyelight candles
    Skyelight candles
  • Skyelight candles
    Skyelight candles

    Skyelight Candles is situated in Staffin, which is at the north end of the Isle of Skye on the Trotternish Ridge. From our workshop we have a spectacular view of the famous Quiraing and, within minutes, we can walk over the crofting grounds and be overlooking Staffin Bay.

    This is the main reason our signature candles came into existence, as these views gave us the inspiration for the Quiraing and Staffin Bay candles that you will see on our shopping pages. We then included the Red Cuillin and, as they say in all good movies, we never looked back!

    Website
  • Bodach an Stòr – The Old Man of Storr
    Bodach an Stòr – The Old Man of Storr
  • Bodach an Stòr – The Old Man of Storr
    Bodach an Stòr – The Old Man of Storr

    Located in the north of the island along the Trotternish ridge, the Bodach an Stor (or Old Man of Storr) is one of the most famous and well-recognised landscapes on Skye and it can be seen from miles away; a glimpse of the pinnacle stone may be seen from Sligachan as you approach Portree. The Storr was created by an ancient, massive landslide, leaving behind one of the most photographed landscapes in the world, and one of our most favourite hikes to take!

    A recent effort by the local council has created a large pay-and-display car park at the foot of the walk, as well as public toilets and a shower block. It is worth keeping in mind that the closest shops for food, drinks, or fuel, are in Portree (10 minutes south) or Staffin (15 minutes north). The walk is moderate and takes around two hours to complete; we recommend wearing good walking boots and layers of clothing; the weather can change incredibly fast on the Storr – one minute you’ll be sweating in the sun, and the next you’ll find yourselves surrounded by the mists we’re famous for! In any weather, when you reach the top you won’t fail to be amazed by the glory of the Storr; in the sunshine, you’ll be blessed with the most incredible panoramic views of the valley below, and in the mists you will swear you’re in Middle Earth, Azeroth, or the land Beyond The Wall – it’s not hard to see why the Storr and the Trotternish Ridge have been included in some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters, such as Stardust, 47 Ronin, Prometheus, and The B.F.G., to name a few!

    For more information, including maps, detailed route plan, and more photos, check the following link

    Website
  • Edinbane Pottery
    Edinbane Pottery
  • Edinbane Pottery
    Edinbane Pottery

    Our high quality handmade ceramics are both modern and functional. The pots are much sought after by visitors and islanders alike, who recognise the distinctive features and inspiration behind the work. We draw heavily on the influences of living and working in a stunningly beautiful environment.

    Website
  • Skyeskyns
    Skyeskyns
  • Skyeskyns
    Skyeskyns

    Visitors to Skyeskyns are transported back in time to witness how real sheepskins are made using time honoured methods of leather making - one of the oldest crafts known to man.

    Here you can enjoy a free guided tour of our workshop where you will see all the traditional implements used by the Tanner: the beam, paddles, racks and buffing wheel, horse and iron as well as the lengthy hand finishing processes, which help  to create the world famous Highland hand-combed fleece, which is exclusive to Skyeskyns.

    After your tour why not visit our showroom and browse through our comprehensive range of luxurious fleeces and quality leather goods. You’ll find the perfect place too for that exclusive and lasting keepsake of your visit to the magical Isle of Skye.  Then, enjoy a cup of artisan coffee whilst sitting on a sheepskin by our wood burning stove inside our seasonal pop-up tea tent YURTea&coffee.  You will be assured of one of the warmest welcomes in the Highlands!

    Tel: 01470 592 237

    Website
  • Portree Angling Association
    Portree Angling Association
  • Portree Angling Association
    Portree Angling Association
    The Isle of Skye is a great location for salmon and trout fishing, and it's spate rivers attract anglers from all over the country. Portree Angling Association has access to beats on the Snizort, Lealt, Kilmartin, Ose, Amer, Kilmaluag and Brogaig rivers.
    Website
  • Talisker Distillery
    Talisker Distillery
  • Talisker Distillery
    Talisker Distillery
    On the shores of Loch Harport, the village of Carbost is home to Skye's only distillery producing a wonderfully powerful and award winning Island malt bottled at above average strength. Tel: 01478 614 308
    Website
  • Dunvegan Castle
    Dunvegan Castle
  • Dunvegan Castle
    Dunvegan Castle

    Dunvegan Castle has been the stronghold of the Chiefs of MacLeod for nearly 800 years and it remains their home. Built on a Rock once surrounded entirely by salt water, it is unique in Scotland as the only house of such antiquity to have retained its family throughout the centuries.
    Tel: 01470 521 206

    Website
  • Clan Donald Centre
    Clan Donald Centre
  • Clan Donald Centre
    Clan Donald Centre

    The Armadale Castle Gardens and Museum of the Isles is set in the heart of a 20,000-acre Highland estate. The ancient home of the MacDonald Clan
    Tel: 01741 844 305

    Website
  • Eilean Donan Castle
    Eilean Donan Castle
  • Eilean Donan Castle
    Eilean Donan Castle

    Discover the history, see the stunning views, walk on the ramparts and catch whispers in the wind; they carry a myriad of tales of MacRaes, MacKenzies and much more.
    Tel: 01599 555 202

    Website
  • Eilean Ban and the Bright Water Centre
    Eilean Ban and the Bright Water Centre
  • Eilean Ban and the Bright Water Centre
    Eilean Ban and the Bright Water Centre

    Situated between Kyleakin on the Isle of Skye and Kyle of Lochalsh on mainland Scotland, Eilean Ban ('White Island') is a six-acre nature haven nestling below the Skye road bridge that spans the island. Originally home to the lighthouse keepers and their families, it later became the residence of the author and naturalist, Gavin Maxwell.

    Although internationally known for its association with Maxwell and with otters, Eilean Ban supports a wealth of wildlife and natural heritage of both local and national importance. Nature trails (suitable for wheelchair users) wind around the island leading to different points of interest, including the award winning wildlife hide, a viewing platform and a sensory garden.

    Guided visits to the island, including the Maxwell museum (a reconstruction of his 40ft living room with original artifacts, recreated by Virginia Mckenna), Teko the otter's memorial stone and the Stevenson Lighthouse, are booked through the Bright Water Centre in Kyleakin.

    01599 530040

    Website
  • LAS Portrigh
    LAS Portrigh
  • LAS Portrigh
    LAS Portrigh

    Recently acquired by the Isle of Skye Candle Co. visit here for a bite in the restaurant, Gasta Pizzeria & Bar, pick up a gift for a loved one in the candle shop or sit down for a movie/ event in the theatre.
    Tel: 01478 613 649

    Website
  • Skye Museum of Island Life
    Skye Museum of Island Life
  • Skye Museum of Island Life
    Skye Museum of Island Life

    The Skye Museum of Island Life at Kilmuir, Isle of Skye was opened in 1965. The aim was to preserve a township of thatched cottages, each one depicting, as closely as possible, the conditions prevailing on the island at the close of the nineteenth century
    Tel: 01470 552206

    Website
  • Cuillin Crafts
    Cuillin Crafts
  • Cuillin Crafts
    Cuillin Crafts

    We are a friendly local shop showcasing our own Genuine Skye Marble jewellery, Also a large selection of gold, silver and freshwater pearls. Gifts priced to suit all pockets from fridge magnets to bronze sculptures.

    Armadale House, Bank St, Portree IV51 9DA
    Tel: 01478 611119

    Website
  • The Uig Pottery
    The Uig Pottery
  • The Uig Pottery
    The Uig Pottery

    Traditional Handmade Scottish Pottery
    We make functional and unique pottery using our own clay recipe, with decorations inspired by the surrounding sea and landscape.
    At Uig Pottery, our skilled team have been producing meticulously hand-finished pieces since 1992.

    Website
  • The Coral Beach – Dunvegan
    The Coral Beach – Dunvegan
  • The Coral Beach – Dunvegan
    The Coral Beach – Dunvegan

    One of the more remote and hard to reach attractions on Skye, the Coral Beach in Claigan, near Dunvegan in the west of the island, is jaw-dropping in its beauty. The turquoise and navy blue of the water next to the pinks, peaches and whites in the corals and shells of the beach look more like the Caribbean than the Inner Hebrides.

    To reach the Coral Beach you must first drive past Dunvegan Castle (well worth a visit, the castle is the ancestral home of the MacLeod clan and in fact the Clan Chief still resides there from October to April each year) and then continue down a single-track road for around 20 minutes – there are beautiful views around every single corner. At the end of the single track, you’ll reach a small car park – spaces are extremely limited so head there very early!! – and then on foot you will pass through a gate onto a dirt road through a cattle field. Be aware that there may be cattle or sheep in the fields; this is working croftland, so please be respectful of the landscape and always keep dogs on leads. You’ll need good walking boots as parts of the route are quite muddy, and the path is impassable for wheelchair users or pushchairs, so keep this in mind when making your plans.

    For more information, including maps, detailed route plan, and more photos, check the following link:

    Website
  • Lealt Falls - Staffin
    Lealt Falls - Staffin
  • Lealt Falls - Staffin
    Lealt Falls - Staffin

    Skye has many waterfalls worthy of stopping for a few photos, and Lealt Falls near Staffin in the north of the island is no exception. The recent addition by the Staffin Community Council of a cantilevered viewing platform has made it all the easier to get the perfect shot of the waterfalls, which often have an orange or brown tint due to the peat content of the ground the water runs over.

    Historically, the Lealt Valley Diatomite Railway ran parallel with the River Lealt, with a tramway being constructed in 1889, first using gravity and later a steam locomotive to operate the line. Diatomite is a chalk-like substance, and during its existence the Skye Diatomite Company extracted a total of 2000 tonnes of diatomite, which was used by Nobel Industries, at Ardeer, to make dynamite.
    For more information, including maps, detailed route plan, and more photos, check the following link

    Website
  • Scorrybreac - Portree
    Scorrybreac - Portree
  • Scorrybreac - Portree
    Scorrybreac - Portree

    We are incredibly lucky to have the Scorrybreac circuit right on our doorstep! A looped walk of around six miles, Scorrybreac will take you along some of Portree’s beautiful coast past the Black Rock, through some traditional croft land, and back down to the end of the walk behind the Cuillin Hills Hotel.

    This walk is easy to moderate – it could be done in trainers (sneakers), but we would still recommend wearing boots in case you come across any muddy puddles or boggy croftland, and the walk can be completed in a couple of hours. There is such a wide range of wildlife you may see from Scorrybreac; we frequently have dolphins and porpoises frolicking in the bay, we have visits from otters and seals, basking sharks, minke whales, sea eagles – we’ve even seen orcas and pilot whales, so keep your camera close by!

    For more information, including maps, detailed route plan, and more photos, check the following link

    Website
  • The Quiraing
    The Quiraing
  • The Quiraing
    The Quiraing

    Almost at the top of the island along the Trotternish Ridge, the Quiraing is an essential stop for all amateur or professional photographer, offering some of the best views in Scotland. Formed as part of a landslide at some time in the last 15,000 years, the resulting landscape offers hidden tableaus, imposing pinnacles of rock, and high, intimidating cliffs; choose a clear day, and take a good camera!

    The looped walk through the Quiraing, minutes away from the small township of Staffin, is one of the more challenging walks on Skye. It really is weather dependant; mists or high winds will make this walk impossible without putting yourself in serious danger, so we would not recommend attempting the Quiraing in any kind of poor weather. Wear good hiking boots and light layers of clothing, in case the weather turns – and remember it will turn quickly! You’ll find a small car park at the start of the walk; keep in mind that it can get very busy here in the summer months so parking may be difficult to find, and you may find it easier to take public transport so you don’t have to worry about finding a parking space – check the timetable here: www.stagecoachbus.com/timetables, route 57A Flodigarry – Portree.

    You’ll be blown away by the beauty of the landscape on the Quiraing; if you get the chance to witness a sunrise here, you will never ever forget it.

    For more information, including maps, detailed route plan, and more photos, check the following link

    Website
  • Neist Point Lighthouse - Dunvegan
    Neist Point Lighthouse - Dunvegan
  • Neist Point Lighthouse - Dunvegan
    Neist Point Lighthouse - Dunvegan

    Neist Point Lighthouse near Glendale, by Dunvegan, is one of the most famous lighthouses in Scotland and it’s located on the westernmost tip of Skye, giving you the opportunity to enjoy some of the most spectacular sunsets you’re likely to see. Passing marine life will give you a reason to keep your eyes on the water; you may see dolphins, whales, sharks, otters, sea eagles, and all manner of fish and seabirds, making Neist Point a top destination for wildlife and landscape photographers.

    The path down to the lighthouse seems easy on the way down; it can be hard on the knees coming back up the steep staircase so watch your step!

    For more information, including maps, detailed route plan, and more photos, check the following website

    Website
  • Dun Beag Broch - Bracadale
    Dun Beag Broch - Bracadale
  • Dun Beag Broch - Bracadale
    Dun Beag Broch - Bracadale

    Over on the west coast of the island in Bracadale, near Struan, you will find the Dun Beag Broch. This is an excellent example of an Iron Age round stone tower, only found in Scotland. The broch is around 2,500 years old, and was probably occupied for a very long time; excavations in the early 1990’s uncovered a cache of medieval and later coins on the site.

    Only around 500 of these brochs have been uncovered in the country, so we really are incredibly lucky to have one so close by, and we recommend a visit for anyone with a keen interest in island history.

    For more information, including maps, detailed route plan, and more photos, check the following website

    Website
  • The Fairy Glen - Uig
    The Fairy Glen - Uig
  • The Fairy Glen - Uig
    The Fairy Glen - Uig

    The Fairy (or Faerie) Glen in Balnacnoc near Uig is a delight to all who stumble across it! This landscape-in-miniature is a fascinating and wonderous place to behold on a bright summer’s day, with tiny trees, mini lochs, and even a fairy castle; Castle Ewan, pictured above, is actually the basalt topping of a hill which, from a distance, looks like a castle ruin and has been called Castle Ewan for reasons unknown.
    You may also come across the fairy spirals left behind by previous visitors to the Fairy Glen; please, do not contribute to these, as they disrupt the beautiful landscape and encourage further damage to the croft land. Remember – “take nothing but photographs, leave nothing but footprints”

    For more information, including maps, detailed route plan, and more photos, check the following link

    Website
  • The Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls - Trotternish
    The Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls - Trotternish
  • The Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls - Trotternish
    The Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls - Trotternish

    Along the main road to Staffin you will find the famous Kilt Rock; around 200ft high and made up of basalt columns sitting on a base of sandstone, the colours and lines in the rock are said to appear almost tartan, though this is best seen from a boat! You will also see the Mealt Falls, fed from nearby Mealt Loch, which on windy days will “flow” backwards, often soaking any intrepid explorers brave enough to withstand the strong gusts. You may also hear an eerie, haunting tone; this is caused by the safety fencing positioned at the top of the cliffs, and can be unsettling in misty weather!

    For more information, including more photos, check this website link

    Website
  • The Fairy Pools - Glenbrittle
    The Fairy Pools - Glenbrittle
  • The Fairy Pools - Glenbrittle
    The Fairy Pools - Glenbrittle
    At the foot of the Black Cuillins you will find the world-famous Fairy Pools. Crystal clear (and usually icy cold), these pools are popular with hikers, photographers, and wild swimmers, and the further up the river you walk, the better the views you will find. A camera and a good pair of walking boots are essential for this hike. There are two pay-and-display car parking areas which are monitored through the summer months by wardens. There are no other amenities close by, so take a picnic and bottled water with you – and please remember to take any litter and dispose of it responsibly. For more information, including maps, detailed route plan, and more photos, check the following link
    Website
  • Scorrybreac Restaurant - Portree
    Scorrybreac Restaurant - Portree
  • Scorrybreac Restaurant - Portree
    Scorrybreac Restaurant - Portree

    Located on Bosville Terrace, looking out over the harbour, Scorrybreac is a small, intimate and cosy fine dining restaurant, perfect for a special occasion or celebration dinner. Head chef Calum Munro has created a gorgeous tasting menu using the very best locally sourced produce, including fish and shellfish landed at the pier, and venison culled from our hillsides.
    For more information, including menus and contact details, check the following link

    Website

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Cuillin Hills Hotel

Portree, Isle of Skye, IV51 9QU

 

reception@cuillinhills.co.uk

 

t: 01478 612003

Cuillin Hills Hotel

Portree, Isle of Skye, IV51 9QU

 

reception@cuillinhills.co.uk

 

t: 01478 612003