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Walkabout Scotland

What To Do On The Isle Of Skye

There is so much to do on Skye that you would be very wise to come up with an itinerary before you make your way to the island…

There’s a huge amount to see and do on Isle of Skye walking tours, and it’s a wonderful choice of destination for anyone who loves nothing more than strapping on their favourite pair of hiking boots and getting out and about in the great outdoors.

In fact, there is so much to do on Skye that you would be very wise to come up with an itinerary before you make your way to the island, famed for its stunningly rugged landscapes, quaint little fishing villages, historic castles, narrow lochs, mountains… there’s a lot to get up to, that’s for certain.

If you’re a big fan of wild swimming and are looking forward to the summer when, hopefully, we won’t be on lockdown amidst a pandemic anymore, make your way to the Fairy Pools in Glen Brittle.

These pools, at the foot of the Black Cuillins, are crystal clear and bring people from all over the world to the shores of Skye. Yes, the water is cold – but we guarantee you’ll find yourself swimming in no time.

If it’s incredible views you’re after, then you absolutely must walk to the Old Man of Storr on the north side of Skye in Trotternish. This is one of the most famous walks on the island and it’s usually the busiest, so plan your trip properly if you’d like to have it all to yourself.

The Old Man itself is a big pinnacle of rock that can be seen for miles and miles. It should take you about an hour to complete the walk and it’s suitable in most weather conditions, although it can get a bit muddy if it’s been raining.

For more experienced walkers, you’ll find the Cuillin ranges will put you through your paces if that’s what you’re looking for from your holiday.

In fact, the Black Cuillin ridge is the most challenging mountain range to be found in the UK, stretching more than 11km and above 3,000 feet in some parts. The highest point is Sgurr Alasdair and there are 11 Munros and 16 other summits. For hillwalkers, the Red Cuillin is a gentler walk that might prove more appropriate.

Depending on what time of year you choose to visit the island, you may be lucky enough to see the Northern Lights, which are visible from Skye. Northern Scotland actually lies at the same latitude as Nunivak Island in Alaska and Stavanger in Norway, which is why the aurora borealis can be seen.

It’s best to go during autumn and winter (when, all being well, lockdown will be over), as the long periods of darkness and clearer nights mean you’re more likely to spot the displays.

We’d love to hear what you plan to do the next time you visit the Isle of Skye, so drop us a line to tell us what your dream holiday entails.