Driving into the Isle of Skye is like being transported back in time. This land is barely touched and preserved so well. From lush grass, to turquoise waters, to sheep wandering in your path, you are in for the time of your life when going to Skye. This is a location that feels forever engraved in my heart and my mind. I truly believe there is magic in the air on the Isle of Skye.

For context, my husband and I journeyed to Scotland during our first year anniversary making it our honeymoon. We rented a car after two days in Edinburgh and drove across Scotland to the Isle of Skye. If you interested in learning about our other stops along the way, check out my Scotland Page.

Where to stay

Coolin View in Portree

First thing! As soon as you know you are going to the Isle of Skye, book your accommodations. We decided to stay in Portree and there are limited bnbs so it is crucial to get your stay booked months, even a year, in advance. We started researching locations about a year in advance and by the time we decided on this one, there weren’t many bnbs left in Portree and this location only had two rooms available. We booked this stay 8 months in advance, so I really do suggest booking as soon as you have your dates figured out.

I can’t recommend this location enough! The only word of caution I have to give to this location is there are only stairs to get up to the 2nd and third floor so be sure to book a lower floor room if need be. The views are amazing and the location is quiet, especially on the third floor (where we were). The rooms are a little small, but if you’ve stayed in any other location by this point it shouldn’t be a surprise! And you’re never in them because you’re out exploring so who cares! We really loved our stay here and for the price and location, it is hard to beat.

Experiences

Sligachan Bridge

As you are driving into Skye, this would be a first stop. It is a beautiful location and I think one of the best first stops on your journey! The highlands really do just bring tears to your eyes. Make sure you really stop a moment to take it all in. This was one of those silent sneaky moments where the awe of it all comes to fruition.

And you know what, we did stick our faces in the water. Is it a touristy trick? Maybe! But my husband and I weren’t going to give up the opportunity for eternal beauty.

Old Mann of Storr

We got an early start and immediately went here. We were able to find parking, but this was around 7:45am. By the time we finished the hike, completely full and people driving in circle. I feel like you have two options for the beginning of the day: Old Man of Storr or Fairy Pools. We were supposed to do the Fairy Pool the previous day and ran out of time and in order to fit more in on our one hiking day, we decided on the Old Man of Storr. And I am SO happy we did. It was incredible!! The hike is straight up so be prepared, especially with your shoes. The views are amazing especially on a clear sunny day. The feeling at the top is one that is truly indescribable. I could have sat and stared all day long. It was also a treat that as we completed the hike there was someone playing bagpipes. Full body chills and happiness.

Lealt Fall View Point

Nice falls to stop by and see. If you are in a time crunch, definitely skippable.

Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls Viewpoint

Mealt Falls were more beautiful to me than Lealt. The water was a stunning shade of blue and the grass around it was so green. It is so windy and it really roars, it’s just an overwhelmingly beautiful sight. I could have stood there for hours watching.

An Conan Beach

I highly recommend going here! There are dinosaur footprints and usually a local around to help you find them. The neon green moss to black sand ratio was wild and looked like something from another planet. Genuinely the views of the houses and the beach alone make this stop worth it, even without the footprints! This was a fun area to explore and we found that we spent the most time here just looking and taking it in. Also, always look up. On multiple occasions we found sheep looking down on us.

Neist Point

We went at golden hour and of our whole trip, this was my favorite. It even topped the Cliffs of Moher for me. Just beautiful views and jaw dropping scenery. It was a clear day for us too so we felt that we could see for miles. This is a place that will make you feel so small and remind you of just how big the world is. I highly recommend that if you don’t have this on your list, add it and go at sunset. (Note: use the bathroom before leaving, there isn’t a restroom anywhere nearby if you leave from Portree)

Fairy Pools

We had the fairy pools on our list but we ultimately decided to scratch due to time. Same with Fairy Glenn but that was due to an accident and causing us to have to turn around. A good reminder to always remain flexible and not too attached to plans!! We ended up sitting next to this sheep for a good 20 minutes while we waited to turn around.

Where to Eat

Breakfast

We aren’t big breakfast people so this is never a meal we take too much time on. We typically enjoy coffee, tea, or a juice and something quick to grab and go.

Lunch

• The Chippy: best fish and chips of the whole trip! Great for in between hikes. – Originally we were supposed to go to Old School Restaurant Instead, but there was an accident on our way to the Dunvegan Castle & Gardens so we had to turn around and go back to Portree. Glad we got The Chippy instead!
• Gasta (Broadford) – We ate here on our way out to Portree
• The Wee Isle of Skye Ice Cream Shop
• Quick meals from Co-op Food – Portree – Bank Street

Dinner

• The View: Our anniversary was this day so we went the fancy route and ate at The View. The View was one of the best meals we ate on this trip! And the staff was so kind. One of the bartenders overheard us talking about how it was our anniversary and a while after we were seated he came over and brought us complimentary champagne. It made our night! The food was delicious and we’re still talking about it months later. 
• The Rosedale: After eating at The View it’s hard to compare! This place did the job and filled our hungry stomachs. The mussels were excellent! Beautiful views and excellent service!

Leaving Skye

Leaving the Isle of Skye was arguably the hardest part of our trip. It is one of those locations that will stick with you forever. Before leaving I purchased an authentic wool sweater from a local store in town. Unfortunately since visiting this store has closed down. One regret I do have is not stopping at the Isle of Skye candle store. We had to leave from Skye and drive back to Edinburgh to drop the car off before 8pm and we had other stops to make a long the drive. We ultimately decided to skip and I am kicking myself for it. If you can fit it in your schedule, I highly recommend you go!

Enjoy your time on the Isle of Skye and remember to take it slow and easy. Don’t rush, breath it in, and have fun!