Welcome to the Isle of Skye, Scotland!
This breathtaking island is full of beauty and adventure, and it’s no wonder that it’s become a popular tourist destination.
With stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and plenty of historical sites, there’s something for everyone here.
In this article, I’ll be highlighting the 15 best things to do on the Isle of Skye.
From exploring the fairy pools and the Old Man of Storr to taking a boat tour and visiting the Neist Point Lighthouse, I’m sure you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you entertained during your stay.
So let’s get started and explore the best of the Isle of Skye!
Visit the Fairy Pools
You won’t believe your eyes when you visit the beautiful Fairy Pools! Located on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, the Fairy Pools are a series of crystal-clear blue and green pools and streams surrounded by a stunning landscape of towering mountains and towering waterfalls.
The pools are fed by the Cuillin Mountains, making them some of the clearest and most beautiful waters in the world. The pools are a great spot for swimming, picnicking, and exploring. There are plenty of walking trails and paths around the area, and you can even take a boat ride to explore the pools in more detail.
The scenery around the Fairy Pools is truly breathtaking, and it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day of swimming or an adventurous hike, the Fairy Pools are a must-see when you visit the Isle of Skye.
Take a Boat Tour
Embark on a boat tour of the stunning Scottish isle and let its majestic beauty take your breath away!
Enjoy a leisurely cruise around the island’s rugged coastline, taking in the stunning scenery and getting a unique perspective of the Isle of Skye.
On a boat tour, you can get up close and personal with some of Skye’s most iconic landmarks, including the striking sea cliffs and fascinating sea caves.
Keep your eyes peeled for seabirds and other wildlife, as the island is a haven for various species. On a clear day, you can even spot the mainland of Scotland.
With knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about the history and culture of the island, as well as any interesting stories and legends that may be associated with the area.
Let a boat tour of the Isle of Skye show you the beauty of Scotland’s most enchanting island!
Enjoy a Walk Along the Quiraing
Take a stroll along the Quiraing and marvel at the breathtaking views of the Isle of Skye! The Quiraing is a stunning mountain range located on the Trotternish peninsula of the Isle of Skye. It’s a popular destination for walkers due to its awe-inspiring views of the Trotternish Ridge and the coastal areas of Staffin Bay.
The Quiraing features an array of incredible geological formations, including the Table, The Prison, and The Needle. There are several clearly-marked trails, making it easy for visitors to explore the area at their own pace. Along the way, you’ll also come across lush green meadows, some of Scotland’s oldest rocks, and plenty of wildlife.
The Quiraing is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the Isle of Skye. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a peaceful stroll, the Quiraing has something for everyone.
Explore the Old Man of Storr
Gaze in awe at the Old Man of Storr, an imposing basalt rock formation located on the Trotternish peninsula of the Isle of Skye! Rising over 160 feet in the air, the Old Man of Storr is one of the most iconic features of the Isle of Skye and is a must-see for any visitor.
The area can be accessed via a winding path that takes you past the towering cliffs and pinnacles of the rock formation. From the top, you get a breathtaking view of the sea and the mainland.
The Old Man of Storr was formed millions of years ago when a large chunk of the Trotternish peninsula broke off into the sea. The area is now part of the Trotternish Ridge, a series of rock outcroppings that form a natural barrier between the mainland and the sea.
The Old Man of Storr is just one of the many rock formations in the area, each with its own unique shape and size. Exploring the area is a great way to spend a day, taking in the unique and stunning geological features of the Isle of Skye.
Visit the Neist Point Lighthouse
Experience the beauty of the Neist Point Lighthouse, one of the most picturesque spots on the Isle of Skye! From the top of the cliff, you can take in stunning views of the rugged coastline and the open sea.
You can also look out for some of the wildlife that lives on the Isle of Skye, like dolphins, whales, and puffins. You can even take a boat tour to get a closer look at the wildlife!
The lighthouse itself is a beautiful red-and-white structure, and the grounds around it are full of wildflowers. You can also take a guided tour of the lighthouse and learn about its history.
The lighthouse dates back to 1909 and is still used today to warn ships of the rocky coastline. It’s a great spot to take some photos and to get a sense of the beauty of the Isle of Skye.
The sunset from the lighthouse is magnificent, and a perfect way to end your day!
Take a Trip to the Talisker Distillery
Head to Talisker Distillery for a taste of Scotland’s finest single malt whisky! Located on the Isle of Skye, the oldest working distillery on the island is home to Talisker, a world-famous whisky known for its smoky flavor.
The distillery offers a variety of tours and tastings, including a guided tour of the distillery, a whisky-making class, and a “tasting experience”where visitors can sample the award-winning whiskies.
During the tour, visitors can learn about the history of whisky-making on the Isle of Skye and how the distillery has been producing whisky since 1830.
After the tour, visitors can sample the wide range of Talisker whiskies, from the classic Talisker 10-year-old to the limited edition No.1.
This is a great opportunity for whisky lovers to try some of Scotland’s finest single malt whiskies.
Go on a Wildlife Watching Tour
For wildlife lovers, the Isle of Skye is a must-visit destination. You can go on a thrilling wildlife watching tour to spot eagles, dolphins, and other amazing creatures!
Taking a wildlife watching tour on the Isle of Skye is a great way to experience the island’s awe-inspiring wildlife. From the comfort of a boat, you can spot an array of native species like seals, porpoises, and even minke whales. You may even see eagles soaring high above the water, or spot dolphins playing in the waves.
A knowledgeable guide will tell you about the different species and will be able to answer your questions about the island’s wildlife. Plus, the tour will take you to some of the Isle of Skye’s most breathtaking scenery.
For those who love animals and stunning views, a wildlife watching tour is the perfect way to experience the Isle of Skye.
Visit the Clan Donald Skye Museum
Take a journey into Scotland’s past and visit the Clan Donald Skye Museum, where you can explore the history of the Clan Donald and their story in the Isle of Skye.
Located in the heart of Armadale Castle, the museum is the perfect place to learn about the fascinating history of the island.
With a wide range of interactive exhibits, you can discover the ancient stories of the Clan Donald, from the time of Robert the Bruce to the present day.
Explore a variety of artifacts, including weapons, clothing, and jewelry, to gain a deeper understanding of Skye’s past.
The museum also provides a wealth of information about the island’s unique culture and heritage, from traditional Scottish music to recipes for traditional dishes.
With knowledgeable staff to guide you through the museum, you’ll leave with a better appreciation for the history of the Clan Donald and the Isle of Skye.
Admire the Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
Leaving the Clan Donald Skye Museum, I made my way along the single-track road that follows the coastline of the Isle of Skye. The views were spectacular, with the sea crashing against the shore and the mountains looming in the distance.
After a few miles, I arrived at Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls – a stunning geological feature of the island. Kilt Rock is named for its resemblance to the pleats of a tartan kilt, with its basalt columns forming perfect stripes. The Mealt Falls plunge off the rock, taking a 200-foot drop and producing a fine mist.
The sound of the crashing water and the fresh scent in the air was a pleasant contrast to the salty sea breeze from earlier. I stood in awe of the beauty of the landscape, feeling grateful to be able to experience it.
Go Hiking in the Cuillin Mountains
Climbing the majestic Cuillin Mountains, I had the opportunity to explore the wild and rugged terrain of Scotland’s Isle of Skye. The Cuillin Mountain Range is a complex landscape of rocky peaks, jagged ridges, and deep glens, and it’s considered to be the toughest mountain range in the British Isles.
I was amazed by the sheer beauty of the area and the variety of landscapes. The peaks of the Cuillin Mountains provided breathtaking views, and I was able to take in the stunning scenery while looking for wildlife like eagles, red deer, and otters.
The hike was challenging yet rewarding, with a variety of trails suitable for all levels of hikers. I was able to take my time and explore the area while learning about the local flora and fauna from the knowledgeable guides.
I also had the opportunity to visit some of the ancient ruins, such as the Iron Age brochs and cairns, which gave me a glimpse into the area’s history and culture.
I’ll never forget the amazing experience of hiking the Cuillin Mountains and the memories I made along the way.
Visit the Fairy Glen
Exploring the mystical Fairy Glen on the Isle of Skye was a surreal experience. Its whimsical landscape of rolling hills and hidden lochs captivated me. Located near Uig, the Fairy Glen is a captivating place. It has lush greenery, mysterious mounds, and strange shapes in the landscape.
Starting from the car park, the path leads to a series of hills and lochs. There is an array of wildflowers, birds, and other wildlife in the area. The path continues to the Fairy Pools, a series of crystal blue pools and waterfalls. This makes it a great spot for a picnic, a dip in the cool water, or a leisurely stroll.
The Fairy Glen’s secluded location and enchanting atmosphere make it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil and unique experience.
Explore the Portree Harbor
Take a stroll to the picturesque Portree Harbor and witness the colorful boats that paint the harbor in vibrant hues.
Boats of various sizes and shapes are docked at the harbor, each with their own unique story to tell.
The harbor is also home to a variety of birds, adding to the picturesque scenery.
You can even take a boat ride to get an up-close view of the harbor and its inhabitants.
For a truly unique experience, take a night-time boat ride and admire the twinkling stars and the peaceful sound of the waves lapping against the boat.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of the Northern Lights in the night sky.
The harbor is also home to a few lovely restaurants, allowing you to sample local delicacies while admiring the majestic views.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an exciting adventure, Portree Harbor is the perfect place to explore and relax.
Relax at the Coral Beach
Unwind at the stunning Coral Beach, with its golden sand and turquoise waters. Located at the northern tip of Skye, the Coral Beach is a picturesque spot to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Cuillin hills and the Hebridean sea.
Its powdery sand is inviting and perfect for a long walk or a picnic with friends and family. An ideal activity here is to take a swim in the crystal clear waters and soak up the sunshine.
The area around the beach is a haven for wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for some rare species of birds and marine life.
The best time to visit Coral Beach is during the summer months when the days are longer and warmer.
Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, the Coral Beach is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of the Isle of Skye.
Visit the Dunvegan Castle
After taking some time to relax at the Coral Beach, I decided to head further north to visit the Dunvegan Castle. The castle is located on the north-east coast of the Isle of Skye and is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland.
It has been the ancestral home of the MacLeod Clan for 800 years and is a great place to learn about the history of Skye and the MacLeod Clan.
The castle itself is quite impressive with its large, strong walls and towers. It is set in beautiful grounds and gardens with plenty of opportunities to explore. Inside the castle, you can visit the drawing room, the armory, the library, and the old chapel. There is also a museum where you can learn more about the MacLeod Clan and their history.
A tour of the castle is a must for anyone visiting Skye. You can also take a boat trip from the castle to the nearby island of Soay to see the seals and other wildlife.
All in all, a visit to Dunvegan Castle is a great way to get a taste of the history and culture of Skye.
See the Kilmuir Graveyard
Next on my visit to the Isle of Skye, I headed to the Kilmuir Graveyard. Located just outside the small village of Kilmuir, the graveyard is one of the oldest and most fascinating burial sites on the island.
The graveyard dates back to the 16th century, and is home to the graves of ancient Scottish clan chiefs, including the chiefs of the MacLeod clan of Dunvegan. As I walked through the graveyard, I was amazed at the sheer age of some of the graves. Many of the gravestones still bear carvings of crosses and figures from the 16th century, and some even have inscriptions in the ancient Gaelic language.
I was also taken aback by the sheer size of the graveyard. The graveyard itself is enclosed by a wall, and the grounds are filled with hundreds of graves, some of which have been lost to time and are now marked only by small piles of stones.
Each grave has its own unique story, and I felt like I was being taken back in time as I walked through the graveyard. I was in awe of the cemetery’s beauty and historical significance.
It was an experience I will never forget.
Conclusion
I had a wonderful time exploring the Isle of Skye in Scotland. From the breathtaking Fairy Pools to the majestic Dunvegan Castle, there was so much to see and do.
I was especially enthralled by the Quiraing walk, the Portree harbor, and the Kilmuir Graveyard.
I even got to enjoy a boat tour and relax on the Coral Beach.
There’s no doubt the Isle of Skye has something for everyone. It’s a great place to explore and experience the beauty of Scotland.
I’m already planning my next trip back – I can’t wait to see more of this amazing island.