Best things to do in Isle of Skye

Witness one of Scotland’s most impressive geological phenomena at The Quiraing. Set in the mountainous landscape of the Isle of Skye, the site represents continuously moving landslips that have formed a series of bluffs and rock formations. Hike the 6 km (3.7 mi) trail that snakes through the formations and enjoy dramatic views of the island’s coastline and sprawling green landscape. While the terrain can be rough to hike in poor weather, the site is also accessible by car. Stop by the local tearoom on your way out of town for homemade cakes and a nice selection of teas.

As the home of the MacLeod clan for more than 800 years, Dunvegan Castle & Gardens stands as the longest-inhabited castle in Scotland. Perched on a rocky outcrop along Loch Dunvegan, the castle features both a large collection of art and colorful gardens. Take a tour to see oil paintings and artifacts such as the famous Fairy Flag banner inside, and diverse plants, wooded glades, and waterfall-fed pools in the 2 hectares (5 acres) of formal gardens outside. Venture onto the loch aboard a boat to see the local seal colony or to cast a line for fish. Nearby campgrounds and cottages offer accommodation if you wish to extend your stay in the area.

Relax in the natural beauty of the The Fairy Pools, Glen Brittle, Isle of Skye, so called because of their enchanting appearance. Walk around the area and admire the collection of clear-blue streams, waterfalls, and rock pools set amid the grandeur of the Cuillins. Brace yourself for a rather chilly swim or a paddle. If the weather permits a longer stay, bring along a picnic, but be sure to take your garbage away with you. Sensible footwear is recommended as the streams fill up quickly when it rains, making the surrounding area very wet and slippery. Go early for the best chance of securing one of the limited parking spaces.

Hike through the rolling green hills of the Isle of Skye to The Old Man of Storr. This famous cluster of rock formations makes up the eastern-facing slope of the Isle, providing sensational views of the coastline. Trek the 8 km (5 mi) long loop up and down the cliffside while enjoying views of the scenic Sound of Raasay. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the climb can be steep and rocky in some places.

A single, unassuming lane leads you to one of Scotland’s most popular viewpoints. Regular visitors insist that Neist Point, the westerly most point on the Isle of Skye, is never the same place from day to day, hour to hour. Don’t forget a camera with long-range capabilities. Whales, porpoises, dolphins, and sharks also frequently visit. Bring a jacket, a hat, and walking shoes. Be sure to take it slowly. Several steep inclines require a little extra time and attention.

Marvel at views of a 61 m (200 ft) high sea cliff at Kilt Rock, named for its likeness to the folded pleats of a kilt. Gaze out across the Sound of the Isle of Rona and of Wester Ross. Watch the waterfall crash into the sea, with a view of Kilt Rock in the distance.

An icon of the western Highlands, Eilean Donan Castle rests on a tidal island in Loch Duich. Before walking over the footbridge to tour the castle ruins, take a stroll to the south for a stunning view of the ruins with the loch beneath and the sky in the background. The restored castle has a keep deep within its walls that is open to the public along with the rest of the grounds. In 2001, the island had a population of one; since 2011, there are no permanent residents living there, so it is exclusively a tourist site.

Loch Coruisk (in Scottish Gaelic, Coire Uisg, the "Cauldron of Waters") is an inland fresh-water loch, lying at the foot of the Black Cuillin in the Isle of Skye, in the Scottish Highlands.

Loch Coruisk is reputed to be the home of a kelpie or water horse, a shape-shifting creature that can assume human form.

The only distillery on the Isle of Skye, Talisker Distillery produces a premium whisky as part of its Classic Malt series. Founded in 1830, the distillery has been pleasing the palates of whisky sippers for centuries. Visit the distillery for a guided tour, where you can smell and touch the oak caskets and see the stills. Try a malt, or two, after your tour. Outside the distillery's walls is a coastline where wildlife, such as dolphins and otters, are often seen.

Take in the verdant scenery and enchanting mysticism of Fairy Glen. Climb up and down the slopes of the small hills and look out for any fairies. Legend has it that they have lived in the glen for centuries. Visit the Castle Ewen, a tower like feature, and discover stone designs made by visitors, or perhaps the fairies themselves. If you’re a confident hiker, head up the narrow path to the top of tower and be rewarded with views of the rolling countryside. Walking boots are recommended, as the glen can get muddy and slippery. Don’t forget to make a wish.

Private and mixed group boat trips to remote inaccessible places. Opportunities to see whales, dolphins, seal colonies & sea eagles.

Share traditional skills, local knowledge and storytelling. We bring to life Scotland’s West Coast Hebridean treasures.

Experience the taste of our locally sourced seafood lunch onboard our vessel cyfish.

Become part of the "Nessie" mania at Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition, presenting the natural history of the area and exploring the legend of a mysterious creature that has fascinated the world for decades. Separating truth from fiction, the center uses a combination of media to show visitors what really lives in these deep waters. Find out what has actually been discovered and see the authentic equipment used to navigate and search the immense lake, which contains more fresh water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined. Boat cruises operate from various locations on the shore, giving visitors a chance to spend a day looking for the legendary monster, or simply to enjoy the surrounding scenery.

At Claigan Coral Beach, what seems to be bright white sand or coral is actually small bits of sun-bleached algae that makes up a stunning shoreline. Located on the Isle of Skye near the Dunvegan Castle, this alluring beach is rarely crowded, as it's a bit off the beaten path. The beach lends itself to long, leisurely strolls, so take your time wending your way down its rugged coast. You could also extend your visit by exploring the other beaches here, which locals call "wee gems."