Isle of Skye

By VI | Disclosure: I use affiliate links

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Need a breathtaking Scottish Highlands adventure? I can’t recommend the Isle of Skye enough! My family and I spent 10 days there in July—and let me tell you, it was colder than we expected, so you’ll want to pack layers, even in summer. If your time is limited, I’d urge you to make Coral Beach and Dunvegan Castle your top stops. You won’t be swimming at Coral Beach (unless you’re braver than I am), but I found agates scattered along the shore, and the photo ops were incredible.

Isle of Skye Highlights:

For Families: Visit Dunvegan Castle & Gardens – I took the kids here, and they were fascinated by the history and the lush gardens. You’ll enjoy the peaceful grounds, and the view across the loch is just stunning.
For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hike the Quiraing – I did this hike early one morning, and the landscape felt like something out of a fantasy novel. You’ll want sturdy shoes and your camera—you’ll be stopping constantly just to take it all in.
For Kids: Explore the Fairy Pools – My children were completely enchanted. We didn’t swim (too chilly!), but you can hop across stepping stones and imagine fairies hiding in the rocks. It’s such a magical spot.
For an Adventure: Climb the Old Man of Storr – This hike was my personal favorite. It’s steep, but so worth it. I caught the sunrise once, and you should try it if you're up for the early wake-up—it’s unforgettable.
For Shoppers: Browse Portree Harbour – I loved wandering the colorful shops here. You’ll find local crafts, cozy cafés, and great spots to grab fresh seafood. Don’t leave without a handmade wool scarf or a Skye-sourced candle.

Best Time to Visit Isle of Skye

I’ve only visited in summer, and while that’s when everything is open and the landscapes are lush, it’s still cool and often rainy. You’ll want to pack a rain jacket no matter when you go. If you prefer fewer crowds, you might enjoy the shoulder seasons—just check that your must-see sites are open.

How to Get to Isle of Skye

If you are traveling by car: I drove over the Skye Bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh—it’s an easy and scenic route. You could also take the ferry from Mallaig, which I’ve done before and loved. From Edinburgh or Glasgow, expect a 5–6 hour drive, but honestly, the scenery makes the time fly by.
By Bus: If you’d rather not drive, I’ve seen Citylink buses that go right to Portree. It’s a solid option if you want to relax and let someone else handle the roads.
By Train & Ferry: I once took the West Highland Line to Mallaig, and then the ferry to Armadale—one of the most beautiful travel days I’ve ever had. If you have time, I highly recommend it for the views alone.

Where to Stay on Isle of Skye

The Three Chimneys & The House Over-By – I treated myself to a night here, and you should too if you’re after a luxury food-and-stay combo. The dinner was one of the best meals I’ve had in Scotland.
Cuillin Hills Hotel – I stayed here with my family. You’ll wake up to mountain and harbor views that feel straight out of a postcard, and the breakfast spread was fantastic.
Kinloch Lodge – This one’s great if you want something a bit more secluded. I haven’t stayed overnight yet, but we stopped for lunch and the atmosphere was warm and peaceful—you’ll love it if you're looking for a quiet escape.