The rugged topography of the island of Skye, old-charm of the fishing villages and the magnificent medieval castles built amidst absolute stunning landscapes of Scotland make this island a dream destination for travelers who look for a laid-back holiday. With nature in its pristine form here, every single nook and corner of the island promises out-of-the-world backdrops for photoshoots. Read on to know the best things to do in Isle of Skye.
8 Best Things To Do In Isle Of Skye
Islands often make for the best escapes. Have a look at the top things to do in Isle of Skye.
1. The Old Man Of Storr
The Old Man of Storr is a set of spiky rocks that erupt naturally from the grassy hills in the serene landscapes of Skye. A hike atop the hill is absolutely surreal and the Old Man of Storr forms a great backdrop for your Instagram pictures. The first part of the hike is through the gravel and is easy and as you hike further up through muddy dirt trails, you can literally feel the clouds over your head.
Location: Trotternish, Skye, Scotland
Timings: Always open; Most crowded between 10.00 am and 3.00 pm
Entry fee: free
Travel Tip:
- Carry enough water with you.
- If you are hiking during the wet season, keep umbrellas and windshields handy. The hiking trails get slippery after the showers.
Ideal for: Backpackers, Families with children in their teens, Nature enthusiasts
Must Read: 8 Trails For Hiking In Scotland That Will Make You Rethink About Your Life!
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2. Dunvegan Castle & Gardens
Set in a glorious backdrop on the 42000 acres MacLeod Estate, Dunvegan is the oldest continuously inhabited castle that can leave you spellbound with its architectural extravagance. Featuring monumental paintings like Fairy Flag and Sir Rory Mor’s ceremonial drinking horn, a trip to Scotland is never complete without visiting the Dunvegan Castle & Gardens. The woodland walk and walled garden are sheer bliss to walk around.
Location: MacLeod Estate, Dunvegan House, Dunvegan, Isle of Skye IV55 8WF, United Kingdom
Distance from the Isle of Skye: 23.7 miles
Travel Tip:
It takes 2 hours to visit the castle and an hour more to stroll through the garden
Ideal for: History lovers, Families with children, Nature lovers
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3. Kayaking
Paddle through the crystal clear waters of Skye. Kayaking in Skye takes you through the hidden beaches and bays of Skye and lets you bask in the views of stunning landscapes of the peninsula. The Isle of Skye has many sheltered bays where you can train yourself and once you hone your skills, you can try kayaking on challenging waters of Loch Carron and the Isle of Skye.
Kayaking points in the Isle of Skye: Loch Duich – Eilean Donan Castle, Kyle to Kyleakin – Over the Sea to Skye, Loch Portree, Loch Dunvegan – Dunvegan Castle, Elgol – Prince Charlie’s Cave, Ord – Coral Island, Point of Sleat (walk-in), Loch Coruisk (boat in)
Travel tips:
- This is a pet-friendly and activity is safe to be done with dogs.
- Cost for kayaking: INR 37,055 (approx) per person for 4 days including camping, camping equipment, and kayaking equipment
Suggested Read: Scottish Highland Railways: 12 Most Breathtaking Train Rides Of Scotland!
4. Fairy Pools
Magical pools in Skye are one of the most surreal places in the world to hike along. The vivid blues and greens of the pools with the Black Cuillins in the background can get anyone spellbound with its outlandish beauty. The hike of about 3 miles along these whimsical pools promise astounding backdrops for your picture-perfect photographs that can make your friends envious about. For those who like some adventure, try swimming in these frosty waters.
Location: Glenbrittle, Isle of Skye IV47 8TA, United Kingdom
Timings: Always Open
Ideal for: Families, Nature lovers, Friends, Couples, Hikers, Nature Photographers
Activities: Swimming, Hiking
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5. Kilt Rock And Mealt Falls
Kilt Rock is a group of ancient cliffs in Portree that resemble the traditional pleated skirt worn by the men of Scottish Highlands. These sea cliffs rise to a daunting height of 180 ft above sea level and the views of the sea from the top of the cliff are scary and spectacular at the same time. The prominent attraction here is the melodramatic waterfall created from the outflow of Loch Mealt that falls from the staggering height of the cliff on the rocky shore of the sea below.
Location: A855, Portree IV51 9JE, United Kingdom
Timings: Always Open
Ideal for: Families, Nature lovers, Friends, Couples, Hikers, Nature Photographers
Traveler Tips:
- Never get close to the edge of the cliff.
- The sound of the strong winds atop adds a haunting tone.
- Wear wind protectors and long sleeved clothes
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6. Boating
Go on a wildlife-spotting boat trip. The Isle of Skye has a charismatic birdlife population that includes the rarest and most popular White-tailed eagle, and other native birds like Puffins, Guillemots, Razorbills, and Gannets. The waters around the Isle have an exotic aquatic life of Dolphins, Whales, Seals, and Basking Sharks. Go on a wildlife boat trip and enjoy spotting these birds and fishes live in action in their natural habitats. Lucky enough, you can even capture the event of a White-tailed eagle picking its prey of fish from the surface of the water.
Best boat tour agencies: Misty Isle Boat Trips, Spindrift Boat trips, Skye Cruises
Pricing: Approximately INR 1853 (per person)
Duration of the boat trip: Usually 2 hours
Pro Tips: If you are traveling as a family, check for family packages with the tour agency that costs INR 4,362 (approx) per boat trip for a family of 2 adults and 2 children
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7. Quiraing Loop
Covering a distance of 6.8 km, Quiraing Loop is a walkable trail that takes you through some of the most photogenic spots in the world with stunning cliffs, hidden plateaus, and spiking rocks. The walk takes you through four stages and en route lets your cameras do the talking as you walk through grassy slopes, rock columns, and shallow streams.
Location: Trotternish, Skye, Scotland
Duration of the activity: 2 hours
Ideal for: Families, Nature lovers, Friends, Couples, Hikers, Nature Photographers
Pro Tips:
- This activity is not recommended on misty days and windy days
Wear sturdy hiking shoes. - Choose a sunny day for the Quiraing Loop Walk and do not miss your camera.
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8. Eilean Donan Castle
This seaside castle in Skye is located on an island amidst splendid surroundings. The only way to reach the castle is by walking on a vintage bridge that runs from the mainland to the island. The castle also serves as an elite wedding destination. So, if you have a destination wedding on your mind, then this can be your pick!
Location: Loch Duich
Timings: 10.00 am – 4.00 pm; Last admission at 3.00 pm
Pro Tips:
- Small backpacks and rucksacks are not allowed inside the castle and there could be random bag checks.
Entry fee:
The below charges are inclusive of an audio guide
Adults: £10.00
Concessions (Seniors Aged 60+): £9.00
Family (2 Adults + 3 Children Age 5-15): £29.00
Children over 5: £6.00
Under 5 years FREE
Further Read: 10 Festivals In Scotland To Witness For An Exotic Dip In The Scottish Culture
We already see you dreaming and enjoying all these things to do in Isle of Skye amidst the astounding rolling landscapes, towering cliffs, and magnificent castles of Scotland and enjoying blissful moments with your friends and family. So, why not bring this dream true to life with TravelTriangle? Book a trip to Scotland today and gear up for a scintillating vacation to the Isle of Skye.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Isle of Skye
How long does it take to walk through the Quiraing Loop?
The Quiraing Loop runs through a distance of 6.8 km, and if you walk non-stop, you can cover the 6.8 km walking trail in just about 2 hours.
Which is the best time to visit the Isle of Skye?
The summer months of July and August are the peak season in Isle of Skye and the best time to visit this island is between July to September when the weather is usually pleasant. April to June is dry with a frosty climate and marks the off-season in the Isle of Skye.
What is Skye famous for?
Skye, an Island in Scotland is famous for its dramatic landscapes, lush greenery, whimsical waterfalls, and medieval castles.
How many days are required to enjoy sightseeing in the Isle of Skye?
2 nights and 3 days are recommended for sightseeing at the Isle of Skye with enough time for relaxation.
What are the VISA regulations for Indians visiting the Isle of Skye?
Indians traveling to the Isle of Skye in Scotland need to possess a Standard Visitor Visa from the UK government to enter the country that lets them stay for up to 6 months in the country. It is recommended to apply for Standard Visitor Visa 3 months before your travel and generally the visa is finalized within 3 weeks.
What are some must-buys from Scotland?
Edinburgh Crystal, Malt Scotch Whiskey, Quaich, Sgian-Dubh, Heathergems Jewelry, and Tartan Scarf are some of the things that should top your shopping list in Scotland.
What is the currency used in Scotland?
The currency used in Scotland is the GBP Pound (£).
Is it worthwhile to go on a wildlife boating trip at the Isle of Skye?
Yes, of course. The abundant bird life and marine life at the Isle of Skye makes it a haven for wildlife lovers. Many tour operators guarantee 99% sighting of the White-tailed eagle and other species of fish.
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