Isle of Skye driving and travel guide

If you are heading to Scotland for a holiday, then why not head west and take a trip to the Isle of Skye.

One of the nation’s almost 800 islands, it has risen to prominence as a popular tourist destination.

Although only 93 of those islands have habitants, the Isle of Skye has many sights and interesting places to visit for families and people of all ages.

This travel advice guide looks into that and how you can visit in your vehicle.

Where is the Isle of Skye?

The Isle of Skye is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides archipelago on the west coast of Scotland.

The Scottish island is known for its natural beauty, rugged landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and historic lochs.

Due to its location and landscape, it is popular with hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and campers.

As it is connected to the mainland through a bridge, it is easily accessible and has many places for families to see.

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What is on the Isle of Skye?

Looking to make the Isle of Skye your next stop on your road trip in Scotland? Then there are many amazing sights to see.

The Inner Hebrides are iconic for their views, dramatic weather, and extensive history – but there are specific places you must see when you make the journey.

The Cuillin Mountains are a popular with walkers and climbers due to the rugged landscape surrounded by its many lochs.

At the base of the mountains, there are some crystal clear, blue and green pools known as the Fairy Pools.: These are popular with natural water swimmers.

Other natural phenomenon’s include the Quiraing. This is a unique landslip formation and geological rock face.

Another rock formation popular with hikers and photographers is the Old Man of Storr.

In terms of other destinations, there is the Talisker Distillery. The nation is known for its expertise in whisky production – and this is the island’s most famous brand.

Dunvegan Castle is one of the oldest continuously inhabited castles in Scotland and is the ancestral home of the MacLeod clan. For history fans, this is a cannot miss day out.

Finally, the largest town on the island is Portree. It has many independent shops, restaurants, and fun tourist locations.

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Can you drive to the Isle of Skye?

In short, yes, you can drive to the Isle of Skye as it is connected to the Scottish mainland by the Skye Bridge. This bridge can be driven on by any type of vehicle.

The bridge spans the narrow strait over Loch Alsh, and connects the village of Kyle of Lochalsh on the mainland with Kyleakin on the Isle of Skye.

To reach Skye by car, drive west along the A87, which connects to the bridge.

However, be sure to check the local weather report and councils – as the bridge can close if the conditions are too dangerous.

Things to do on the Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye offers stunning views of rugged mountains, dramatic cliffs, and shimmering lochs.

Wildlife thrives here – golden eagles soar above the Cuillin Hills, otters play along the shoreline, and seals bask on rocky outcrops found across the island.

Dolphins and whales can sometimes be spotted offshore, adding to the island’s wild charm.

Skye’s cozy towns, like the capital of Portree, offer cozy pubs, traditional shops, and classic Scottish cuisine.

Here, we profile the top 10 things to do on your visit to the Isle of Skye.

Glen Brittle

Glen Brittle is a valley framed by the famous Cuillin mountains, offering one of Skye’s most popular hikes.

The Fairy Pools, with its crystal-clear waterfalls and natural pools, draw visitors for their beauty and wild swimming opportunities.

The area is a fantastic opportunity for photographers, with dramatic views that are quintessentially Scottish.

Old Man of Storr

One of Skye’s most iconic views, this rock pinnacle rises sharply above rolling hills of the island.

A hike to the summit rewards visitors with views across the Sound of Raasay.

Its silhouette has inspired myths and legends for centuries, making it both a natural wonder and cultural landmark.

Quiraing

The Quiraing is a landslip on the Trotternish Ridge, famous for its rock formations of jagged cliffs, plateaus, and dramatic drop offs.

It is another favourite for photographers and hikers!

Kilt Rock

This cliff face resembles a pleated kilt.

From its edge, Mealt Falls plunges directly into the ocean, creating a spectacular sight that has become synonymous with the island.

The combination of geology and waterfall makes this viewpoint one of Skye’s most memorable coastal attractions.

Dunvegan Castle

Dunvegan Castle, home of Clan MacLeod, is Scotland’s oldest continuously inhabited castle.

Visitors can explore its historic rooms and take a stroll through the gardens.

Overlooking Loch Dunvegan, the castle blends history with natural beauty, offering boat trips to and look back at the island’s history.

Armadale Castle

These ruins sit within expansive gardens on Skye’s Sleat Peninsula, and also feature a Museum of the Isles.

Visitors can also enjoy woodland walks, floral displays, and sea views, making it a cultural and scenic highlight.

Portree

The capital of the Isle of Skye is a harbour town known for its colourful waterfront houses, pubs, seafood restaurants, and local craft shops.

It is also where visitors can enjoy boat trips, explore nearby hiking trails, or enjoy the local cuisine.

Portree is the perfect base for exploring everything Skye has to offer.

Talisker Distillery

Located on Skye’s west coast, it is the island’s oldest working distillery and world-renowned for its single malt whisky.

Established in 1830, it is s storied part of the islands history.

Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the distillation process, sample whiskies, and then take a bottle home with them.

Overlooking Loch Harport, it is a must-visit destination for Scottish whisky lovers.

Loch Coruisk

Loch Coruisk lies at the heart of the Cuillin mountains and is only accessible by boat or a very challenging hike!

Surrounded by jagged peaks, its dark waters and nearby woodlands are filled with wildlife and is another place that nature lovers will want to visit.

The Three Chimneys

The Three Chimneys is Skye’s renowned fine-dining restaurant, set in a traditional stone cottage.

Known for creative tasting menus, it features local seafood, game, and produce from nearby areas.

Corran Beach

Corran Beach is a stretch of sand with views across the Sound of Sleat.

However, the area is famous for preserved dinosaur footprints scattered along the shoreline.