Check out these incredible things to do and see on the Isle of Skye – the most instaworthy places in Skye! There’s something for everyone – especially those looking to explore the beautiful scenery.
Loch Coruisk
A magical must-see. Loch Coruisk, in the heart of the Cuillin, is the most beautiful Scottish freshwater loch. Although care must be taken when the terrain is boggy, it’s certainly worth it for the incredible mountain scenery. If your time is limited, cross the stepping stones and sit or walk along the south side of the loch – it definitely has best views. Or if the weather is nice, bring your swimming gear and take a dip! (recommended for experienced wild swimmers).
To get there, take the Misty Isles boat trip (c. £28 pp) from Elgol (around 1hr drive from Portree). The family run Misty Isles tour is excellent and we couldn’t recommend it more highly. We reserved our place around 1 month in advance and had to call up to pay the day before (it is of course weather dependant and booking in advance helps secure your place).
Our trip was fully booked and there were even some on the reserve list. We went in September 2021 so post-covid, however had to book via email as bookings weren’t being taken on the website at the time we booked.
Type Elgol into Google Maps and follow the road to the end, you can park at the top of the hill or drive down to the car park next to the pier. We took the 11am boat and the standard 3 hr trip. They’ll also take you via the seal colony on the way – incredible to see! After you return there’s a little blue seafood van just next to the car park at the pier, we recommend getting the fresh lobster rolls and/or the seafood salad which both tend to sell out – they are delicious.
Cuillin Hills Hotel garden
If you’re staying in Portree it’s a great place for drinks after a day exploring Skye (the cocktails are lovely too). No booking required, simply rock up and see if there are any chairs free, sit down and ‘scan and order’ using the QR code on your table.
There’s also a couple of benches on the left hand-side of the lawn out-of-sight so check there too! The Cuillin Hills Hotel geodome is also pretty cool – walk down the steps at the front of the lawn and have a drink inside if it’s free! With stunning views over Portree Harbour it’s a beautiful setting for watching the sun set and enjoying a cocktail (or local beer) or two!
The Quiraing
Another classic must-see on the Isle of Skye. Allow 3-4 hrs and definitely wear walking shoes or boots (walking sticks could also be a good shout). We were lucky enough to have fantastic weather and even then the walk down from the summit was boggy – we nearly lost a shoe or two along the way!
It’s a circular route and the path is pretty clear cut up to the top. On the way back down we did lose a bit of visibility and ended up taking an ‘alternative’ route down. If this happens to you look out for wooden posts planted along the route down and they’ll take you back to the car park.
The Fairy Pools
There’s hundreds of articles out there on the fairy pools so we won’t go into much detail here – but it’s popular for a reason. It is breathtaking and is a must-see on your trip to Skye. Park at the car park (£5) and walk across to the starting point. There will most likely be others around so just follow the crowd!
There are also some swimming opportunities if you don’t mind the cold water – it’s great fun!
We’d recommend bringing a towel and swimwear. We’d also recommend proper walking shoes as it can be pretty rocky in places.
Hidden Waterfall (Sligachan - Allt Daraich)
Less than a 20 minute walk from the more famous Sligachan falls is a hidden gem – perfect for an afternoon dip. We stopped here after a day visiting Loch Coruisk. Park next to the old bridge across from Slagachan Hotel (Parking at the hotel is for guests only). Walk up with the statue on your right hand side. And then follow the narrow path (you’ll hear/see a stream to your left – follow this).
Portree Harbour
If you’re staying in Portree (a great base for exploring the Isle of Skye) then the Scorrybreac Walk is a short (1hr) walk – and the starting point gives excellent views of the colourful Portree Bay.
The walk also offers a chance to see Sea Eagles that nest on the nearby cliffs.
Brother's Point
A stunning and lesser known alternative to Neist Point this walk is easy, short and one of our favourites. A mini waterfall, views of the deep blue sea and even a peaceful shore – it’s definitely worth doing if you have time.
You can’t help the weather but if the sun is shining then it’s simply beautiful.
Park up on the road, there may be one or two cars – we only saw one other person when we did this so it’s definitely a preferred alternative to the busier walks.
Another hidden waterfall
Carbost waterfall is literally a 5 minute walk from the road, park up and walk up the path until you reach the waterfall pouring into the beautiful blue pool. It’s easy to find and a great quick stop off if passing by.
Talisker Bay
Talisker Bay is beautiful. Just put Talisker Bay into your maps and follow the road until you reach the signs telling you where to park. It’s a lovely 30-40 minute walk to the bay. If bringing a dog keep it on the lead as there’s a lot of sheep along the way. When you reach the bay look over to your right hand side and you’ll a waterfall falling down the cliff, if there’s been a lot of rainfall recently it’ll be spectacular!