Skye

As the days stretch and the landscape wakens from its winter slumbers, there is no better time to visit Skye and Lochalsh.

Skye may be Scotland’s second most popular destination during the peak summer months, but the area is a yearround treat offering views, amazing wildlife, breath-taking adventures, some of the finest dining experiences in Europe and a guaranteed warm welcome.

Visitors are drawn by the attraction of Skye’s top-five iconic sites – The Quiraing, The Old Man of Storr, Neist Point, The Fairy Pools and Fairy Glen – and they are certainly worth a visit, however, Skye and Lochalsh has so much more to offer.

The area’s Destination Management Organisation, SkyeConnect is helping visitors to achieve a richer experience by getting off the beaten track to explore more of Skye’s culture, landscapes and wildlife. Through #skyetime visitors can learn more about the experiences on offer and ensure that they leave with memories that will make them want to come back time and time again.

If you are heading to Skye from the north, take some time to enjoy Attadale Gardens in Wester Ross, or visit Eilean Donan Castle in Lochalsh on the road to the Skye Bridge, one of the most popular castles in Scotland.

If you love the sea take the scenic short crossing from Mallaig to Armadale with CalMac Ferries, or between Easter and October you could travel with the original Skye ferry (Scotland’s only remaining turntable ferry) between Glenelg and Kylerhea.

Once on Skye visitors can head south to Sleat, the ‘Garden of Skye’ and tour the new Torabhaig Distillery, or visit Armadale Castle and Gardens and the Museum of the Isles.

Heading west from Broadford brings visitors to Elgol and arguably the best view of the Cuillin Ridge. Head north to Portree for guided historical walks around the island’s capital, a luxury boat trip to the remote island of Rona or a coasteering adventure. Keep going north and you’ll find a collection of some of the finest restaurants in Scotland – The Three Chimneys, Edinbane Lodge and Loch Bay.

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top things to see, do and experience

thE QuIRang Part of the Trotternish Ridge, the quirang is an awe-inspiring formation of rocks, composed of pinnacles, cliffs and plateaus. It has featured in films from the BFG to Transformers, and can be reached on foot from Staffin or Uig. isleofskye.com

aRMadalE CastlE The romantic ruins of Armadale castle are part of an extensive estate that includes gardens, woodland trails and the Museum of the Isles, exploring 1,500 years of history and culture. armadalecastle.com gEologICal MaRvEls Skye’s scenery is universally spectacular, and natural wonders not to miss include the crystal clear Fairy Pools at the foot of the Black Cuillin mountains, the Old Man of Storr, and Coral Beach. At Skye’s westerly tip you’ll find Neist Point and its celebrated lighthouse. isleofskye.com

toRagbhaIg dIstIllERy Housed in a 19th-century farm steading, this new distillery opened in 2017 (Skye’s only other distillery, Talisker, is in Carbost) and welcomes visitors for tours. Its first single malt should be available this year.

PoRtREE Skye’s main town is a bustling and colourful port used by both fishing and pleasure boats. There are plenty of shopping and eating opportunities and you can take a walking tour to get your bearings.

bRIght WatER vIsItoR CEntRE This Kyleaken exhibition centre remembers the otter conservation work of Ring of Bright Water author Gavin Maxwell. Book tours here to nearby Eilean Bàn, a nature haven below the Skye Bridge.

aRts and CRaFts See the work of local artists and craftspeople in shops across the island – some studios are open to visitors too. As well as painting and sculpture inspired by the landscape, Skye specialisms include weaving, jewellery-making and ceramics. EIlEan donan CastlE One of Scotland’s most visited attractions, the enchanting silhouette of Eilean Donan Castle dominates the landscape around Dornie (on the mainland). This 13th-century castle was recently restored and is a must-see on the road to Skye.

skyE FERRy The Glenachulish, Scotland’s only remaining turntable ferry runs between Glenelg and Kylerhea in the summer season and is a novel and historic way to arrive on the island. www.skyeferry.co.uk

Eat out Skye is home to some of Scotland’s top chefs, perhaps attracted by the stellar setting and fresh local food. For a fine dining experience to remember, try the Three Chimneys, Edinbane Lodge or Loch Bay.