B3, B4 ⌂ Inner Hebrides 3 Kyle of Lochalsh @ Portree g From Mallaig or Glenelg ∑ isleofskye.com
The largest of the Inner Hebrides, Skye boasts some of Britain’s most dramatic scenery. From rugged volcanic plateaus to ice-sculpted peaks, the island is divided by numerous sea lochs. Limestone grasslands dominate in the south, where hills are scattered with ruined crofts abandoned during the Clearances.
t Lone walker exploring other-worldly rock formations at The Storr
Experience The Highlands and Islands
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With its harbour lined with colourful houses, Portree (meaning “port of the king”) is Skye’s mini-metropolis. It received its name after a visit made by James V in 1540 in a bid to bring peace to local warring clans. With beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, and its fair share of cosy pubs, restaurants and B&Bs, Portree is an excellent base from which to explore this rugged island.
t Boats moored in the still waters of Portree harbour at sunset
For over eight centuries, Dunvegan Castle has been the seat of the chiefs of the Clan MacLeod. The castle’s architecture is a unique mix of building styles due to numerous structural additions and renovations that took place from the 13th to mid-19th centuries. Seal-spotting adventures, a favourite with kids, and fishing trips on the loch depart from the castle.
Erosion of a basalt plateau on the Trotternish ridge has resulted in the Storr’s other-worldy rock formations. The Old Man of Storr, a monolith rising to 49m (160 ft), is the highest of these curious structures. Hike the 2.6-mile (3.8-km) Storr Ascent, accessed from the main road from Portree to Staffin, and head to the north side for spectacular views of these rocky pinnacles. North of the Storr, Quiraing’s terrain of spikes and towers is a fantastic area to explore on foot, and is easily acessed off the Uig to Staffin road.
Overlooking the Cuillins from the banks of Loch Harport at Carbost, this is the oldest working distillery on the island, famed for its sweet, full-bodied Highland malts which are often described as “the lava of the Cuillins”.
This award-winning museum, takes visitors back in time to an old Highland village, comprising a community of well-preserved thatched cottages and crofts, where they can discover what island life was like 100 years ago.
Experience The Highlands and Islands
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EAT Three Chimneys A sublime cottage restaurant with an international reputation in a remote setting. Its excellent cuisine has been rewarded with a Michelin star. ⌂ Colbost, Dunvegan ∑ threechimneys.co.uk ]]] |
Britain’s finest mountain range is within walking distance of Sligachan, and in summer a boat sails from Elgol to the desolate inner sanctuary of Loch Coruisk. As he fled across the surrounding moorland, Bonnie Prince Charlie is said to have claimed: “even the Devil shall not follow me here!”
A particular highlight of the area, at the foot of Skye’s Black Cuillins on the River Brittle, are the Fairy Pools. Here, white water cascades into deep stone cauldrons filled with clear pale turquoise water. The pools are also a favourite with wild swimmers daring enough to plunge into their chilly waters. Allow around an hour to follow the riverside trail that leads to the most spectacular upper pools, with breathtaking views of the Cuillins along the way.
Once the seat of Clan Donald, who reigned over the area as Lords of the Isles, this ruined castle and its impressive grounds make for a fascinating day out. The gardens date back to the 1790s, and are home to many remarkable specimens of trees and rare plants. Beyond the gardens there are numerous woodland trails.
At the award-winning Museum of the Isles, visitors can discover the story of Scotland’s most powerful clan, while its six galleries cover the 1,500 years of history and culture of the Kingdom of the Isles. An additional gallery hosts visiting exhibitions.