The Isle of Skye is an absolutely extraordinary place well worth a visit. It is definitely one of my favourite places I have ever been to.
When To Go
It can be tricky to choose the right time of year for a trip to Skye. The winter can be cold, whereas the island is full of tourists in summer. Also beware of the midges season from about May to September (if you do travel in those months, nets and Avon Skin So Soft are inevitable). Late April can be a happy in-between, but any time is fine as long as you plan accordingly.
Where To Stay
We stayed in a stunning self-catered Skeabost View Pod not too far away from Portree (the main settlement). They were incredibly well equipped and we even had dinner there one night. While we brought all our food with us, we nevertheless found it nice to stay close to Portree for additional snacks etc. That also meant we didn’t have to drive long distances coming back from dinner when we went out. I would recommend at least two nights on Skye to make it worth the long drive. There is a lot to see on the island, and with travel across the island being slow on single track roads, it is definitely nicer not to rush.
How To Get There
Driving is really the only option, but that means you can visit some lovely places on the way! Stop for breakfast or lunch at the Wildcat Cafe in Fort William (it’s all vegan and all delightful) or have lunch at the side of a river at Port Na Craig in Pitlochery. There is also the beautiful Eilean Donan castle to see on the way. Make sure to take a little break just before the bridge to Skye at Kyle of Lochalsh for beautiful views onto the Isle of Skye (and a last pit/pee stop).
What To See
The scenery of Skye is out of this world. My highlights were the Fairy Pools and the Old Man Storr, both of which require walking boots. Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls were also beautiful to see (and conveniently located near a car park). While you are on Skye I would recommend visiting the Talisker distillery (even if it’s just the shop!) to try a wee dram of the famous Talisker Storm. Portree itself is a quaint little village and particularly beautiful in the sunset when the harbour is cast in gold light.
What To Eat And Drink
An absolute highlight was the Caora Dhubh Coffee Company, tucked away in the middle of nowhere but worth a visit both for the excellent coffee and beautiful views. Also, it is conveniently located next to the Talisker distillery. Equally good coffee can be found in Portree at Birch Coffee, which also offers light lunches and cakes. If you want to really treat yourself, get a table at Scorrybreac. It is an intimate restaurant in Portree with a delightful tasting menu (probably the best food I had in the UK). Booking very well in advance is advised.
Isabella Deutsch 