Explore
Must-See Places Isle of Skye
Portree
Portree, the charming capital of the Isle of Skye, boasts a picturesque harbour adorned with colourful buildings. This lively seaside town is perfect for exploring local cafes, shops, and cultural hotspots like the Aros Centre and Isle of Skye Candle Co. It's an ideal base for your adventures around the island.
Old Man of Storr
The Old Man of Storr, a striking 55m basalt pinnacle, is one of Skye's most iconic landmarks. This popular walking route offers breathtaking views across the Trotternish Ridge and is a must-visit for anyone wishing to capture the island's natural beauty.
- Length – 3km
- Time – 2 hrs
- Difficulty – Hard
- Gradient – Very steep in places
- Terrain – Path/ Steps
Quiraing
The Quiraing is a remarkable landscape shaped by ancient landslides, featuring dramatic cliffs and hidden plateaus. A 6.8 km loop walk, taking around 2 hours, allows visitors to experience the area's stunning geology and panoramic views.
- Length – 100m – 2km
- Time – 15 mins – 2 hrs deepening on how far along the route you wish to go
- Difficulty – Easy/moderate
- Gradient – relatively level
- Terrain – Path / muddy in places
Lealt Falls Viewing Platform
A hidden gem along a remote single-track road, Lealt Falls is a graceful waterfall that enchants visitors. Paired with scenic detours through wild Skye, it's an underrated stop ideal for photographs and quiet reflection.
- Length – 50m
- Time – 10 mins
- Difficulty – Easy
- Gradient – Flat
- Terrain – Path
Lealt Lower Falls
Lealt Lower Falls is a hidden treasure tucked away just downstream from the main Lealt Falls viewpoint. It's a tranquil spot for those seeking a quieter, scenic escape.
- Length – 0.5km
- Time – 45/60mins
- Difficulty – Moderate/Hard
- Gradient – Steep
- Terrain – Steps
Kilt Rock
Kilt Rock is a breathtaking sea cliff that resembles a pleated kilt, plummeting 90 m into the Sound of Raasay. Nearby, the Mealt waterfall adds to the drama as it crashes 51 m into the sea below, creating a stunning spectacle.
- Length – 50m
- Time – 15/20min
- Difficulty – Easy
- Gradient – Flat
- Terrain – Path
Fairy Glen
Fairy Glen near Uig is a whimsical landscape of miniature hills and playful rock formations, perfect for a leisurely stroll. This fairytale-like setting invites visitors to unleash their imaginations and capture the enchanting scenery.
- Length – 0.5km
- Time – 60min
- Difficulty – Easy/moderate
- Gradient – Steep in places
- Terrain – Paths
Staffin Dinosaur Museum
The Staffin Dinosaur Museum is a small yet fascinating destination celebrating the Jurassic dinosaur footprints found along Staffin Beach. This spot is perfect for families and geology enthusiasts eager to learn about the island's prehistoric past.
Museum of Island Life
Located in Kilmuir, the Museum of Island Life is an open-air museum showcasing reconstructed 19th-century crofting thatched cottages. It vividly brings traditional Highland life back to life, offering a glimpse into the island's rich history.
Fairy Pools
The Fairy Pools are a series of crystal-clear turquoise pools and cascading waterfalls nestled beneath the Cuillin Mountains. A short hike leads you to these magical natural formations, which are perfect for stunning photographs and refreshing dips.
- Length – 2km
- Time – 90 mins
- Difficulty – Moderate
- Gradient – Steep at the start/end
- Terrain – Path / muddy in places
Sligachan
Sligachan is a quaint hamlet located at key mountain routes, featuring a hotel, campsite, and microbrewery. With breathtaking views of the Black Cuillin, Sligachan serves as a hub for walkers and climbers seeking adventure.
- Length – 100m
- Time – 30 min
- Difficulty – Easy
- Gradient – Flat
- Terrain – Path / muddy in places
Neist Point
As Britain's westernmost point on Skye, Neist Point features a picturesque lighthouse perched atop dramatic cliffs. A gentle walk leads to sweeping ocean vistas, making it an enchanting location, especially during sunset.
- Length – 2km
- Time – 90 mins
- Difficulty – Moderate
- Gradient – Steep at the start/end
- Terrain – Steps/ Path / muddy in places
Loch Coruisk
Loch Coruisk is a breathtaking freshwater loch nestled at the foot of the dramatic Black Cuillin mountains. It's a perfect spot for adventurous walkers, nature lovers, and photographers alike.
- Length – 0.5km
- Time – 90 mins ashore
- Difficulty – Easy
- Gradient – relatively level
- Terrain – Path / muddy in places
Elgol
Elgol is a small fishing village on Skye's rugged south-west coast. A peaceful spot, it's ideal for boat trips, coastal walks, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the serenity of the island's dramatic landscape.
- Length – 500m
- Time – 30/60 min
- Difficulty – Easy
- Gradient – Flat
- Terrain – Rocky beach
Rha Waterfall
Rha Waterfall, just outside the village of Uig, cascades powerfully into a lush, mossy gorge surrounded by woodland. Its double falls create a mesmerising spectacle, especially after rain.
- Length – 0.5km
- Time – 30min
- Difficulty – Easy/moderate
- Gradient – Steep in places
- Terrain – Steps/Muddy in places
Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls, a delicate waterfall tumbling down the cliffs near Kilt Rock, offers a beautiful and romantic scene as it fans out like a bridal veil in the wind. The viewpoint provides stunning coastal vistas.
- Length – 100m
- Time – 15/30mins
- Difficulty – Easy/moderate
- Gradient – Flat
- Terrain – Very muddy
Talisker Distillery
Talisker Distillery is the only whisky distillery on the Isle of Skye, renowned for its smoky, peaty single malts. Visitors can tour the production process and sample their iconic whisky, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts.
Torabhaig Distillery
Skye's second distillery, Torabhaig, produces uniquely crafted single malt whisky. Set in a stunning location, it offers insightful tours and tastings, allowing visitors to appreciate Skye's whisky heritage.
Raasay Distillery
Located on Raasay, just off Skye's eastern coast, Raasay Distillery is a boutique operation reviving the island's whisky legacy. The short ferry ride is worth it for a taste of their exceptional offerings.
Dunvegan Castle and Gardens
Dunvegan Castle, the ancestral seat of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years, is a 13th-century fortress featuring Victorian additions and scenic gardens. Visitors can also view the legendary Fairy Flag on display.
- Length – 500m
- Time – 60/90 min
- Difficulty – Easy
- Gradient – Flat
- Terrain – Paths
Armadale Castle
The ruins of Armadale Castle in Sleat include atmospheric gardens and a museum dedicated to Clan Donald. Its beautifully landscaped gardens provide a peaceful retreat for visitors.
Eilean Donan Castle
While technically on the mainland, Eilean Donan Castle is a quintessential Scottish castle on a tidal islet. Its majestic beauty makes it a classic photo stop and a must-see during your travels.
ISLE OF Skye Tours
At Explore Skye, we offer fully personalised day tours that allow you to explore these must-see places and more. Whether you prefer set tours or wish to customise your itinerary, we are here to help you make the most of your visit!