Considered a crown jewel of the Scottish Highlands, Isle of Skye is full of can’t-miss sights, hidden gems, and world-renowned dining. We’re sharing the very best things to do in Isle of Skye, plus everything you need to know to plan an epic trip.
Known for jaw-dropping rugged landscapes, epic bucket list hikes, and colorful villages (like the postcard perfect Portree!), the Isle of Skye is arguably one of the most beautiful places in Scotland.
To say there are a lot of things to do on the Isle of Skye is almost an understatement.
This island, while relatively small, is absolutely packed with cool sights, bucket list hikes, and incredible food.
We’ve compiled all of our experience from 2 trips to the Isle of Skye (one trip we did in 2022 and one trip our Director of Content, Amanda, did in 2024!) and put together a list of the very best things to do in Isle of Skye to help you plan the perfect visit.
Our favorite things to do on Isle of Skye
If we had to choose our very favorite things to do on Isle of Skye, this list would be it!
Want more ideas? Well, you are in for a treat, my friend, because this article is absolutely PACKED with all kinds of fun things to do in Isle of Skye plus all sorts of insider tips you wont find anywhere else!
Let’s get right to it…
1. Hike Old Man of Storr
The Old Man of Storr hike is one of the most popular hikes in Scotland, and our top recommendation for things to do in Isle of Skye!
Situated on the eastern coast of the Isle of Skye, this trail takes hikers through a moss-covered landscape, strewn with otherworldly rock formations and some pretty epic views.
We have a guide to hiking the Old Man of Storr trail that tells you exactly what to expect and everything you need to prepare for this popular hike.
2. Take a selfie with highland cows
While the symbol of Scotland is a unicorn (yes, really!) highland cows are – dare I say – a more iconic Scottish animal. And one that you can actually see in real life. So there’s that.
While driving around the Isle of Skye, we spotted herds of these furry brown animals grazing in pastures. Some of them were even near the fence close to the road so we could get up close and personal.
Responsible travel note: As with any animal encounter, respect their space and do not get too close. And this should go without saying, but absolutely NEVER try to pet or feed these animals.
One area that we saw a lot of highland cows in was the pastures around the town on Sconser.
3. Wander colorful Portree
Portree is undeniably beautiful. Wander the streets and be sure to snap some photos along the way, as this is one of the most picturesque towns in Scotland.
The colorful building set against the quaint harbor make for a postcard-worthy combination.
Whether you’re a photographer or just want to capture moments from your Scotland trip, you’ll definitely want to snap a picture of this lovely seaside village.
The best view of Portree can be found at this spot.
4. Wander Fairy Glen at sunset
This place was one of our favorite stops on the Isle of Skye.
A flat and easy mile-long loop trail brings you past grassy knolls, conical hills, a tranquil bog, and rock formations where sheeps graze.
You’ll know when you reach the spot known as The Fairy Glen, as there are concentric circles made in the ground with stones.
You’ll also see Castle Ewen – which is not a castle at all, but a rock formation that somewhat resembles a fortress-like structure.
The whole place has an ethereal, magical quality to it.
Our experience: When we visited in September 2022 around sunset time, there were just a handful of other people, making our experience feel really special.
Amanda’s experience: The Fairy Glen looked a little different when I visited in August 2024 around midday. For one, the parking lot was nearly full (we parked on the road) and the place was pretty crowded with tourists. There is also a new path through the glen and a long line to climb to the top of the “castle”. Though it was more crowded, it was still worth the stop in my opinion, and I had fun getting some photos in different spots with less people.
Be a responsible traveler: Don’t move the stones or walk in the circular area (even if you see other people doing so). This causes erosion and will mean this spot is not as beautiful for future visitors.
How Fairy Glen got its name
Throughout history, the Isle of Skye was thought to be a home for fairies, as they are said to live near water. That said, there are no known legends or folklore tied to this exact spot. It simply got its name from the otherworldly quality of the landscape.
The rocks have been placed by visitors over recent years, and while it’s beautiful, it doesn’t have anything to do with folklore. Some tour guides are said to have created stories to make this place seem more magical, but the fact of the matter is that it’s simply a beautiful area to explore.
Sorry if that spoils the illusion!
Fairy Glen Hike
- Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 135 feet (41 meters)
- Type: Loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Timing: Plan on 20-25 minutes for the walk itself, and more if you’d like to take photos and climb up to the viewpoint.
Insider Tip: The best view of the circles in the ground is from the cone-shaped hill opposite Castle Ewen. There is a path to the top, from which you can get a really nice view overlooking it all.
These trail notes will be helpful in planning your hike to Fairy Glen.
Good to know: After a rain, parts of the path can get muddy, so wear hiking boots.
→Psst! Before you start feeling overwhelmed by all the things to do in Isle of Skye, check out our perfect Skye itinerary, where we’ve put together our suggestions for how to spend your time.
5. Hike to the iconic Fairy Pools
No trip to the Isle of Skye would be complete without hiking to the famed Fairy Pools.
While this is one of the most visited places in Skye, it is popular for a reason.
We’ve got a guide to hiking to the Fairy Pools so you know exactly what to expect.
Tip: If you want to avoid crowds, come early or stay for sunset. The middle of the day is the most crowded. But even at its busiest, you’ll be able to find spots along the path that you have all to yourself.
6. Get weak in the knees at Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls
This is one of the most iconic views on the Isle of Skye, and for good reason. It’s not often that you can see a waterfall tumble over a sheer cliff into the ocean.
It is quite the drop! (Just hang on tight to your phone or camera.)
This is a quick stop, as it’s just a short walk from the parking lot. Also, be sure to walk to the other side of the parking lot (where there were no crowds at all!) and check out of the views of the opposite cliffs (pictured below).
7. Hunt for dinosaur footprints at Staffin Beach
Just north of Kilt Rock, this black sand beach surrounded by the rugged and moody outcropping of the Trotternish Peninsula reveals dinosaur footprints during low tide.
Staffin Beach, known locally as An Corran, was already a popular stop on the Isle of Skye since it’s so close to other popular stops like the Quirang, but it didn’t get the recognition it does now until 2001.
Over two decades ago, dog walkers and scientists discovered 170 million year old footprints, which are said to belong to the dinosaurs. As you walk, look for the tracks of the Stegosaurus, Megalosaurus, Cetiosaurus, Hadrosaurus, and Ceolophysis.
8. Indulge in fresh seafood
The Isle of Skye is one of the best places to enjoy fresh seafood while in Scotland.
Insider Tip: If you’re a scallop fanatic like me, be sure to order them while exploring Skye, as they are famous for hand-dived scallops.
There are an abundance of options around the island. Here are our top picks:
Oyster Shed: This popular seafood market and kitchen is open Monday – Saturday (11 am – 5 pm) year round. It makes a good lunchtime stop during your Isle of Skye road trip. Enjoy hand-shucked oysters, steamed mussels, fish stew, smoked salmon, langoustines, and seared scallops in a super casual setting (aka you’ll be eating your meal while standing beside a barrel).
Loch Bay Restaurant: Run by a husband and wife team, this cozy restaurant is known for locally-sourced seafood, like hand-dived scallops, and a welcoming atmosphere. While it’s located a bit out of the way from the typical sights, this restaurant is a destination in itself.
The Galley Cafe: This casual cafe specializes in seafood dishes, making it the perfect lunch or dinner stop if you’re in the area. Hint: It’s near Fairy Glen and makes a perfect post-walk meal.
One of the many restaurants in Portree: You’ll have no trouble finding excellent seafood in Portree. Just be sure to make a reservation in advance, as the restaurants here do book up.
Here are our top picks for a nice seafood dinner in Portree:
9. Cheers with a local brew
Pop into Isle of Skye Brewing Company for a local ale or their house-distilled gin – whatever floats your boat.
Sláinte! (That’s Gaelic for cheers!)
10. See epic views at the Quiraing
Step into a magical realm with vibrant, otherworldly landscapes on the Quiraing hike. Driving up to the viewpoint is just the start (and plenty worth the views alone!).
And if you have the time, we’d recommend going on part, or all of the 3.9-mile loop.
- Distance: 3.9 miles (6.2 km)
- Elevation: 1,286 ft (392 m)
- Type of trail: Loop
- Difficulty Rating: Moderate
- View trail notes
Insider Tip: Want to extend your hike? This route brings hikers on a longer version of the loop.
11. Explore Spar Cave
This cave is one of the best kept secrets on the Isle of Skye. A short, half-mile trail takes you to a fairytale-like cavern made of dripping flowstone.
You’ll walk along freshwater pools surrounded by silver walls, feeling like you’ve discovered an entirely different world.
It’s important for you to do a bit of additional planning in order to visit this cave safely. Once you enter the cave, it will be pitch black, so you’ll need a hefty light source with you to see anything.
Additionally, the cave only appears during low tide, so be sure to double-check the tide charts before you head out.
→ Psst! If you have time to discover more of the country, don’t miss these epic places to visit in Scotland.
12. Get on the water in a kayak or SUP
There are few better ways to soak up the serene and secluded nature of the Isle of Skye than a peaceful paddle in the isles coastlines.
Explore Highlands offers kayak and stand-up paddle board tours ranging from half-days to full day excursions in a variety of different spots around Skye.
Their friendly, local guides also cater to beginners, families, and avid recreationalists looking to explore the renowned scenery, landscapes and wildlife.
No matter your experience level on the water, there is an adventure waiting for you to experience.
13. Make a quick stop at Fairy Bridge
There’s not much to see here, but this historic bridge does make for a nice photo op or a quiet spot for a picnic.
It has a single arch and dates back to the 19th century.
14. Visit the tip top of Skye at Rubha Hunish
The tip top of the Trotternish Peninsula features views as far as Duntulm Castle and a bothy that was originally used by the coastguard for whale spotting.
Rubha Hunish is also famous for being one of the best hikes on the whole isle for seabird and mammal spotting.
You’ll walk along steep cliff sides, royal blue waters, and arrive at panoramic views. If you want to take your visit to the next level, you can spend the night in the bothy on top of the cliff and witness a spectacular sunrise over the Isle of Skye.
Tip: Scotland’s coastline is notoriously wet, so bring your waterproof boots!
15. Hike the rugged coastline at Brother’s Point
- Distance: 2 miles / 3.2 km
- Elevation: 305 ft / 93 meters
- Type of trail: Out-and-back
- Difficulty Rating: Easy
- View the trail notes
You’ll feel as though you’ve stumbled upon an undiscovered gem in the Isle of Skye as you walk past local sheep herds to this magnificent viewpoint.
Listen to the waves crash on the shores below while you enjoy long distance views of Kilted Rock, Mealt Falls, and the lush green hills of the isle.
16. Walk out to the Neist Point Lighthouse
On the western shores of Skye is one of the most famous lighthouses in Scotland. It’s one of the best photography locations in the Isle of Skye, and makes for a pretty incredible sunset.
Neist Point’s orange and white details contrast beautifully to the backdrop of green and blue hues Scotland is so renowned for.
Take the short and scenic walk all the way to the lighthouse, or enjoy views of the entire Neist Point peninsula from afar.
17. Tour the Talisker Distillery
Join the passionate guides of the oldest working distillery in Skye as they take you on a journey through three single malt tastings.
You’ll toast the only single malt whisky from the Isle of Skye gazing over dramatic views of the Cuillin Hills and Loch Harport.
18. Tour the Dunvegan Castle (or see it from afar)
Along the shores of Loch Dunvegan is one of the most spectacular Hebridean castles in the Scottish Highlands.
This fortress was occupied by the same family for over 800 years and features architectural work across ten different building periods from the 1200s to the 1850s.
You can experience all the intricate details from centuries of reign on a tour, or view the castle and the stunning surrounding scenery at this viewpoint, for free.
19. Visit the Armadale Castle & Gardens
This castle along the Sound of Sleat was the last residence of the Macdonald Clan. The dreamlike gardens and former manor house are filled with romantic corners and interesting clan history.
History buffs will adore this stop since you can learn about so many of the main figureheads of Scottish history and folklore, as well as the history of the Highlands and Isles.
Relics, plaques, weapons, and documents share history from the 18th-century to the present day.
20. Walk across the historic Sligachan Old Bridge
The legends shared in the Isle of Skye help bring some of its locations to life, and the stories surrounding this bridge definitely attract a crowd.
The Sligachan Bridge was built in the early 1900s, over water that is believed to hold the key to eternal youth. However, in order to reap the benefits of these enchanting waters, you must hold your head under for at least 7 seconds.
Since you’re in the area, the Sligachan waterfalls are only a short 25-min walk up the road and worth peeping before heading back to the car.
21. Try to spot otters at Kylerhea Otter Hide
Otters, seals, whales, and other wildlife can all be spotted at the Kylerhea Otter Hide.
The hide is a wooden building with full facilities and free binoculars to search for wildlife. Inside the hide has facts and more information about all the different animals you can spot.
It’s easy to access along a flat wooded trail. Along the way to the viewing area, you can see native and non-native plant species as well as different signs to read about local wildlife.
22. Pretend you’re in Outlander at the Duirinish Stone
This standing stone feels like a true hidden gem on the Isle of Skye.
A short walk brings you to a hill that overlooks a small hamlet on the water below. The star of it all is of course the mysterious standing stone.
We were the only ones here when we stopped, and it made a nice and short little detour on our Isle of Skye road trip.
Insider Tip: To get here, you’ll walk past the ruins of St. Mary’s church and cemetery to the left and follow the small path up the hill toward the stone (which you can see from below).
23. Grab a coffee in a unique setting
The Isle of Skye has a handful of super unique places to get your caffeine fix that’ll put a regular old Starbucks to shame!
Sip a latte in the ruins of an old house
Lean To Coffee, run by a husband and wife duo, is located right after you cross the bridge to Skye. Enjoy a latte and muffin in ruins of an old house that has been creatively converted into a seating area.
In addition to the usual coffee drinks and a small assortment of daily-baked pastries, there are some lighter fare, like granola bowls. This unique, seasonally-open coffee shop is the perfect welcome to Skye.
Step inside a real life fairytale oasis
While not on the Isle of Skye exactly, Manuela’s Wee Bakery is located just minutes from the stunning Eilean Donan Castle which should definitely be on your route either before or after Skye.
This is unlike any coffee shop you’ve ever seen – with tiny fairytale inspired houses, and a pond in the center, magic is in the air.
We found the coffee to be average, but the freshly baked goods are very tasty. In addition to pastries and coffee, this bakery does pizzas and has an onsite gin distillery, so no matter what time of day you visit, you’ll find something that strikes your fancy.
Order your morning joe inside a yurt
Situated on one of Skye’s northwest peninsulas, YURTea & Coffee is just what it sounds like. A coffee shop inside a yurt!
This seasonally-open spot is a unique place to jumpstart your day or get a pick-me-up. If you arrive early enough, you’ll have an assortment of baked goods to choose from.
Sip your coffee in a cozy book-lined cafe
Bogg Myrtle is a cozy cafe not far from the famed Fairy Pools that has solid coffee and a variety of cakes. This book-filled setting feels almost like a small library and begs you to pause and stay a while.
They also have a small breakfast and lunch menu. We loved their tomato lentil soup so much I’ve tried to recreate it myself!
More coffee options on the Isle of Skye
While not quite as unique as the spots above, here are three more excellent coffee shop options.
- The Coffee Bothy: Super cozy cafe near the entrance of Skye that serves homemade breakfast food and sandwiches as well as coffee drinks.
- Caora Dhubh Coffee Company: Caora Dhubh, which translates to black sheep, is located on a western peninsula of Skye (near Talisker Distillery), and is known for brewing some of the finest coffee on the Isle of Skye.
- Birch Cafe: If you’re looking for a pick-me-up in Portree, this is the best coffee shop around.
24. Spend a night glamping in Skye
Get in touch with the rugged and remote nature of the Isle of Skye in your own private glamping cabin or pod.
You can bring all the creature comforts of home to your glamping site to have the most elevated experience in Scotland’s expansive landscapes.
Spend the night along the Trotternish Loop in the Skye Fox Retreat Cabins (just look at that private outdoor bathtub!). Or North Skye Pods, which are slightly more affordable and feature bunks for families.
Or get off the beaten bath just east of Portree in the renowned Skeabost View Pods near the Snizort River.
25. Visit the stunning Eilean Donan Castle
While this is not technically on the Isle of Skye, it is just a short 15-minute drive from the bridge, so it should definitely be a stop on the way to or from the island.
Known as one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland, Eilean Donan is unique because it was built atop a rock just off the shore of a loch. This 13th century castle is accessible by a small bridge (if you pay the £10 entrance fee).
Even if you don’t go inside, you can marvel at its beauty from shore, or you can drive to this viewpoint for the best view.
Perfect Isle of Skye itinerary
Wondering how to fit all these great recommendations into just 4 days? We did the legwork for you and came up with what we think is the perfect Isle of Skye itinerary.
Isle of Skye itinerary map
Click on the map and enter your email to gain access to our interactive Isle of Skye itinerary map. It’s filled with custom pins of everything from our 4-day Isle of Skye itinerary.
First timer’s guide to Isle of Skye
If this is your first time visiting Isle of Skye, you’ll want to read our First Timer’s guide which is packed with helpful information like how to get around and where to find the best eats.
Where to stay on Isle of Skye
As a large island with tons of different accommodation options, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to stay.
We recommend making Portree your base for visiting the Isle of Skye and doing day trip exploration from there. That’s the area that is most populated and will have the most options — not to mention more restaurants and services nearby.
If you want more details and hotel recommendations, we have an entire guide for where to stay on Isle of Skye, which includes the best hotels, vacations rentals and even campsites for your road trip.
Plan your trip to Scotland
Scotland is one of our favorite destinations for road tripping, and we’ve created tons of resources to help you plan the ultimate adventure. Start with our Scotland Travel Homepage and check out these helpful articles:
- Find out the best time to visit Scotland (and what you can expect in each season!).
- Start dreaming with our Scotland bucket list full of epic experiences and must-see places.
- Not sure where to go? Our guide to the best places to visit in Scotland will help you narrow it down.
- Ready to hit the road? This guide walks you through how to plan a Scotland road trip step by step.
- Our Scotland campervan rental guide will help you choose the right one.
- Here’s everything you need to know about camping in Scotland.
- Prefer a little more comfort? Don’t miss these dreamy glamping stays in Scotland.
Want the perfect Scotland road trip planned for you?
We spent two unforgettable weeks road tripping through Scotland—hiking to epic viewpoints, wandering historic castles, cruising through lochs, and camping in some pretty epic locations.
We took all of that experience (plus a ton of extra research!) and created the ultimate 2-week Scotland itinerary. It’s completely done-for-you and includes stunning drives, epic hikes, unique stays, and practical advice—plus access to our custom Scotland map to make planning stress-free.
If you want to see the very best of Scotland without spending hours piecing it all together, this is it.
Don’t forget to grab our Scotland packing list!
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We want to hear from you!
Which of these fun things to do on Isle of Skye has jumped to the top of your bucket list? Is there anything you think we’re missing from this list? Comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!